Seizures can be more difficult to detect in elderly citizens. This is because seizures can cause dizziness, sensory changes, memory issues, and confusion, all of which are common issues in elderly adults already. There are many causes and types of epilepsy in elderly adults. If you are caring for someone with epilepsy, it is a must that you know more about the challenges related to this disease. Learning more about these challenges can give you a one-up on how to help with their treatment process and recovery process, as well.
Increased Risk of Falls and Injuries
Those who have epilepsy, especially elderly adults, have an increased risk of falls and injuries from those falls. This can lead to huge problems with elderly adults. It is quite difficult for many senior citizens to recover from certain types of injuries. Since epilepsy can be tough to manage, the elderly citizen may have another seizure, before they even recover from the first fall or injury.
When someone has epilepsy, especially if they are an elderly citizen, it can be tough to balance their treatments, other health concerns, and medications. There are many different types of treatments that can be prescribed for people with epilepsy. The problem with this is that many elderly citizens are already on medications for other health concerns. These medications may have a negative interaction with epilepsy medications. This can make it quite difficult to find the right combination of medications. If your elderly loved one is diagnosed with epilepsy, make sure their doctor knows all of the other medications they are on.
Increased Bone Loss
There are also many epilepsy medications that can lead to increased bone loss. Since bone loss is already very common in elderly citizens, this can become a huge problem. It can cause your elderly loved one to feel even weaker and get injured even more severely if they fall again during or after a seizure.
Now that you are more aware of the common challenges that are brought up with epilepsy and older adults, you can do your best to help your elderly loved one. Make sure you write down all the symptoms they normally have, keep track of their seizure activity, and talk to their doctor about all the medications they are already one. If you can’t be there to talk to their doctor, be sure their senior care providers are there for them.
Sources
https://www.cdc.gov/epilepsy/communications/features/olderadults.htm
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4001216/
If you or an aging loved one is considering senior care in Fairfax, VA, please contact the caring staff at Assisting Hands today. (703) 982-0050.
