Epilepsy is a common condition that affects the brain and causes recurrent seizures in the individual. This neurological condition is distinguished by unusual behaviour, sensations, and, on rare occasions, loss of consciousness. Epilepsy can affect anyone. Epilepsy can affect men and women of all ages, races, and cultural backgrounds. To enrich you with more information about epilepsy and elderly, read this blog which will take you through the steps that an elder need to take to prevent or manage epilepsy. Get set and read!
National Epilepsy Day was established by the Epilepsy Foundation of India as a national campaign to reduce the prevalence of epilepsy in India. National Epilepsy Day 2022 is observed every year on November 17th to raise public awareness of epilepsy.The medial temporal are the parts of the brain that frequently cause seizures. Neglecting it can have long-term consequences for the brain health of the elderly. The elderly are the most affected by epilepsy. The elderly population over the age of 65 has the highest risk of epilepsy. With our ageing population comes an increase in the number of older adults who have epilepsy, and thus an increase in the need to understand the effects of epilepsy in the elderly.
The following are some of the most common epilepsy symptoms:
- Temporary confusion or disorientation
- A staring time
- Stiff & rigid muscles
- Uncontrollable jerking movements of the arms and legs
- Loss of consciousness
- Psychological fear and anxiety
What are the causes of epilepsy in elderly?
- Genetics
- Stroke
- Brain injury
- Brain tumour
- Dementia
- Medical conditions affecting brain
- Consumption of Alcohol, smoking
- Sleep deprivation, stress and depression
Methods and treatments for seniors to prevent and manage epilepsy
Plans for treating epilepsy in elders should only be determined after careful consideration by qualified medical personnel. As medication provided without thorough analysis can have negative effects and worsen other illnesses & chronic conditions, this plan will need to be prepared in accordance with the elder's medical history and symptoms. Seniors who have had epileptic seizures require special care that can address their urgent requirements.
Some of the treatment that is generally provided are:
- Anti-seizure medication
- Emergency medication
- Diet & Care
- Surgery (if needed)
Understanding the problems and preventive steps that can help seniors’ live epilepsy-free lives is necessary even before considering treatment options. Following is a list of some of them.
The first and foremost is to reduce the risk of stroke and heart disease because these can be significant contributors to epilepsy in elderly people. Additionally, these can be avoided by making small lifestyle modifications.
Preventing traumatic accidents that could result in brain injuries is another protective measure. Simple falls that happen to elderly people can result in this.
Seniors who participate in expressive art therapy sessions might support seniors in maintaining their mental and physical activity. which will maintain and enhance their neurological health as well as their mental acuity.
The above precautions might not be possible for elderly people suffering from dementia or Alzheimer's to take on their own. Diet, lifestyle, and engagement activities need to be tailored for them. Elders can join in an assisted living facility where they will receive dementia and memory care in such circumstances. The likelihood that dementia and memory care will aid in treating and preventing epilepsy seizures is very high.
When it comes to senior citizens who suffer from epilepsy seizures, they frequently require specialized care. When an elderly person lives alone, dealing with seizures is nearly impossible. To avoid such situations, elders can join in assisted living facilities, which will monitor and care for them comprehensively. Athulya Assisted Living is one such Assisted living facility where the skilled medical team provides skilled nursing care and post stroke care. With their premium care and luxurious living facilities, they also enable seniors to live a positive and peaceful life.
.jpg)
Comments
Post a Comment