Dramatic increase in incidence of senior epilepsy
Posted Mar 4, 2010 By EMC News
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Tweet ThisEMC News - March is the month to raise awareness of epilepsy.
Each day in Canada, 38 people learn they have epilepsy. In one year, an average 14,000 people learn they have epilepsy.
Approximately 25 per cent of newly identified cases of epilepsy occur in persons 60 years of age and older.
Statistics have illustrated that approximately seven per cent or 1 in 14 seniors have epilepsy.
In the 21st century, we have witnessed a dramatic increase in the incidence of senior epilepsy, especially in people 60 years and older.
Between 2011 and 2031, the largest generation in Canadian history will be turning 65. Stats Canada estimates that the number of Canadian seniors will nearly double, growing from 12 per cent today to more than 23 per cent of the population.
Causes and diagnosis related to aging
- Heart attacks - Oxygen carried to the brain can be cut off temporarily, resulting in damage, which can produce seizures.
- Disease - Alzheimer's and other brain diseases alter the internal structure of the brain and therefore may be likely to induce seizure activity. Other diseases, such as complications of kidney disease, liver disease, alcoholism and diabetes, increase the likelihood of seizures in seniors.
- Brain tumours - Any kind of tumour may cause seizures. Sometimes the removal of tumours stops seizures.
- Surgery - Scars left from an operation may cause seizures later in life.
HEALTHY TIPS FOR PEOPLE 60 PLUS
- Maintain a good level of blood pressure to reduce chance of stroke,
- Eat a diet low in fat, sugar and salt to reduce chance of heart problems,
- Use canes and walkers when necessary to avoid accidental falls,
- Be cautious of drinking alcoholic beverages,
- If you smoke quit, if you drive, make sure that your eyesight and reflexes are sufficient,
- Discuss the medications you are taking with your doctor regularly,
- Wear a MedicAlert bracelet,
- Ask for help. It may be difficult. Counselling is a great idea to help you to identify your needs and risks, and to advocate for yourself,
- Inform your neighbours of your epilepsy, outlining the type(s) of seizures you experience and what they can do to assist you, should the need arise.
For further information, visit your local Epilepsy and Seizure Resource Center, 42 George St., Brockville or call 613-498-3288. You can also visit our web site at epilepsyresource.org.
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