Epilepsy is undeniably one of the most feared disorders in the world, owing to the devastating impact it has on the lives of seniors. As a result, in honour of Epilepsy Day, here’s an interesting piece that covers a wide range of information about this deadly disorder in the hopes of raising awareness.
So, let’s ask ourselves; what is Epilepsy? And why is the world considering it a serious condition? Epilepsy is a neurological disorder which disrupts brain activity, triggering seizures or periods of unusual behaviour.
The seizures are usually quite erratic and very unpredictable. Unlike in most common cases, Epilepsy seizures have no trigger and can act out at any time.
This is where Epilepsy tends to be quite a tricky disorder – There are multiple ways a senior could develop Epilepsy. However, we’ll elaborate on the common causes.
- It could be due to genetic influence first and foremost. The senior could have come from a family that had dealt with Epilepsy for generations.
- Brain abnormalities, such as tumours and other brain-numbing diseases, could be a valid reason for a senior citizen suffering from Epilepsy.
- Stroke is also regarded as the leading cause of epilepsy in people over the age of 50. As a result, cautious post-stroke care is strongly advised to avoid falling victim to Epilepsy.
- Parasitic infections can cause Epilepsy in some seniors.
- Finally, accidents that may have caused head injuries could lead to Epilepsy, although it is quite rare.
Diet for seniors with Epilepsy
Changing your diet is one of the simplest ways to manage epilepsy. Epilepsy patients should eat a well-balanced diet that includes carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and other nutrients. To be more specific, consider the points listed below:
- Carbohydrates are famous for providing an energy boost and are usually present in foods like potatoes, rice and others.
- Fats are primarily to keep our body at an optimal temperature and are found in oils, nuts and seeds.
- Proteins are an essential need for seniors, considering their help in sustaining a healthy immune system and strong muscles.
- Vegetables and fruits will prevent the cells from getting damaged along with vitamin and mineral boosts.
Now that we’ve covered the types of foods seniors with Epilepsy can consume on their road to recovery, here’s a list of foods that could worsen the condition.
- Anything with trans fats can be extremely harmful to seniors with Epilepsy. If you’re wondering what comes under trans fats, we have butter, coconut, and processed foods like cookies, instant noodles and pizza.
- Caffeine is a major red flag too. According to studies, caffeine could increase the probability of a senior having seizure.
- Foods with artificial sweeteners like jam, candy, pudding, packaged baked goods and soda.
One of the many reasons why an older adult is prone to developing epilepsy is dementia. Seizures can result from even minor changes in brain structure.
As a result, when the cells in the brain begin to die and shrink, the senior becomes vulnerable to epilepsy. So, how does one go about preventing such serious disorders from affecting their memory?
While there are medications to help control such situations, the elderly could also try something called “memory rehabilitation,” though the results are not always positive.
Neuropsychologists, speech pathologists, and therapists are among those who work in this field today. Finding the right therapist and having open and honest conversations can make all the difference.
“Epilepsy is a disease in the shadows. Patients are often reluctant to admit their condition – even to close family, friends or co-workers.”
– Lynda R.
Join Athulya Assisted Living for a happy recovery
Athulya, currently active in Chennai, Bangalore and Kochi houses one of the most prestigious senior assisted living facilities in India, with an enormous number of amenities, features and highly skilled nursing care for safe and happy ageing.
In the case of seniors with Epilepsy, Athulya also hosts group art therapy within the facility to enrich their minds and gift them the opportunity to express their emotions and feelings through art.
Furthermore, Athulya also offers top-quality transition care for Epilepsy-ridden seniors, consequently increasing the prospects of defeating the neurological disorder.
Do visit their premium facilities and embark on the journey to recovery.
