Are there support groups for seniors living with seizures at 68?

Question

Hi doctor,

My father is a 68-year-old male and has epilepsy that developed later in life after a stroke. The seizures are mostly controlled, but what has been harder than expected is the isolation.

Most of his friends do not really understand what living with seizures is like, and he has become more withdrawn over the last couple of years. We have been trying to find ways for him to connect with people who get it, but haven’t had much luck. Are there support groups for older adults with epilepsy, and did joining one help with the emotional side of living with a seizure disorder?

Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Excessive worry and negative emotions after the diagnosis of a chronic illness are quite understandable and a normal human reaction. Initially, accepting the diagnosis can be very challenging, but over time, the mind often adapts and learns to cope.

Complete psychoeducation about the illness can sometimes help alleviate depressive symptoms. Tell him that a person with epilepsy can live a normal life with appropriate precautions. The ultimate goal is to prevent breakthrough seizures and maintain a seizure-free life.

With regular drug therapy, follow-ups, and a balanced lifestyle, one can easily achieve a seizure-free life. He is currently seizure-free, and after three years of being seizure-free, the risk of breakthrough seizures decreases significantly. In some cases, medication tapering may be considered under the supervision of a neurologist.

It is very important to identify potential seizure triggers, such as sleep deprivation, bright light, substance use, poor adherence to medications, chaotic lifestyle, and so on. Some risky things, such as swimming alone, driving, and travelling alone, should be avoided for the first few years.

After an episode of stroke, around 50 per cent of people suffer from a major depressive disorder episode. Appropriate treatment by seeing a psychiatrist is very important, as depression doubles the risk of stroke.

To reduce the anxiety, encourage him to do yoga, mindfulness, support groups, deep breathing exercises, and CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy) sessions. If the anxiety and mood symptoms persist for a long duration, it is recommended to seek psychiatric consultation.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards.