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Centre for Policy on Ageing | |
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| Epilepsy in elderly people | | Author(s) | Linda J Stephen, Martin J Brodie |
| Journal title | The Lancet, vol 355, no 9123, 22 April 2000 |
| Pages | pp 1441-1446 |
| Keywords | Epilepsy ; Therapeutics. |
| Annotation | The prevalence and incidence of epilepsy are highest in later life, with around 25% of new cases occurring in older people, many of whom have concomitant neurodegenerative, cerebrovascular, or neuroleptic disease. Difficulties accepting the diagnosis are frequently compounded by its unpredictable nature. Those affected commonly lose confidence and independence. Seizures in older people can result in physical injury, adding to low morale. Complete control is achievable in around 70% of patients with anti-epileptic drug treatment. Optimum management requires rapid investigation, accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, sympathetic education, and assured support. The emergence of seizure disorders in old age places an increasing burden on health care facilities and costs. A co-ordinated programme among health care workers is advised to maintain the independence and to improve the quality of life of this vulnerable patient population. (RH). |
| Accession Number | CPA-000522202 A |
| Classmark | E9: LL * |
Data © Centre for Policy on Ageing |
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| ...from the Ageinfo database published by Centre for Policy on Ageing. |
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