Epilepsy is a neurological condition affecting over 600,000 people in the UK, with as many as 87 people being diagnosed every day. Of these people, one in four is over 65, making epilepsy a common condition amongst the older generation. For many, it can be a scary condition, but fortunately there are epilepsy aids available to support your wellbeing.
What is Epilepsy?
People with epilepsy experience bursts of electrical activity in the brain that affect how it functions. Often, this results in a seizure. Seizures can present in several ways. These can include uncontrollable jerking and shaking (called fits), losing awareness, going stiff, or collapsing. Some people who experience epilepsy may pass out and not remember what has happened.
Whilst seizures can be caused by factors other than epilepsy, if you experience two or more recurrent seizures, you may be considered to have epilepsy. Common causes include chemical imbalances in the brain, tumours, strokes, or brain damage. However, in most cases there is often no detectable cause.
Usually, epilepsy is a lifelong condition. However, with treatment and some lifestyle changes, people living with the condition are able to live normal lives.
Epilepsy Aids
If you are living with epilepsy, it is reassuring to know that support is available if you experience a seizure. These aids can help you continue living independently and offer additional peace of mind.
Identification Bracelet
A simple but effective example of epilepsy aids is an identification bracelet. This is a lightweight, unobstructive piece of jewellery that you can wear wherever you go. If you experience a seizure while away from home, this bracelet will provide important information, including that you have epilepsy. This will help to inform people how they can support you.
Read our article about Medical Identification Accessories for more information.
Safety Pillows
An epileptic seizure can affect you at any time, including when you’re sleeping. Whilst most people are perfectly safe during an epileptic seizure, there is potential for a fit whilst sleeping to result in your body rolling over. Fortunately, safety pillows for epilepsy are available to reduce the risk of suffocation if you have a seizure while sleeping.
These pillows have small holes in them to support your breathing. Whilst most often recommended for children with epilepsy, these could be useful epilepsy aids regardless of age.
Fall Alarms
One of the risks associated with epilepsy is falls during a seizure. A fall can result in injuries, for which medical attention may be required. In these situations, it can be reassuring to know that help can be arranged on your behalf. A fall alarm works like traditional personal alarms, connecting you to a professional Response Team who let your emergency contacts know that help is required.
As well as this, though, fall alarms also send an automatic alert after a hard fall, making them valuable epilepsy aids. Over-65s are also more likely to experience serious injuries after a fall. Fortunately, the fall alarm Response Team can also arrange for emergency services to attend you.
Seizure Alert Dogs
If you experience regular seizures, you may be eligible for a seizure alert dog. These dogs have been trained to detect an oncoming seizure and let you know, giving you time to make yourself safe. Moreover, a seizure alert dog could offer you additional companionship, helping to prevent feelings of isolation. It may also boost your confidence and help you be more social.
You can find out more about how a seizure support dog can help you by visiting the Support Dogs website.
Order a Personal Alarm Today
For additional peace of mind around the home, order a personal alarm from Telecare Choice today. We offer a range of alarm plans to suit your needs, including fall alarms, which could be ideal if you are living with epilepsy.
Order online today or get in touch with our helpful team on 0800 635 7000. They will be happy to help you choose the right alarm plan for your needs.
