Epilepsy and how it affects people’s lives

Epilepsy can affect the lives of many and working in your capacity as a care worker, it is likely that you will come across those that are long term sufferers of epilepsy or who have recently been diagnosed. Very often you may find yourself facing a lot of questions where those you know feel worried or afraid.

Top Tip : Wear an ID badge if you have epilepsy

Here are a few questions that you may be asked:

Will it change my life?

Sufferers often wonder whether it will impact upon things such as their working life, driving a car, personal relationships, and how they may be viewed by society in general. Much depends upon the type of epilepsy that they have and the frequency of the seizures. Some people may be lucky in that their lives do not change too much whilst others may have to cope with dramatic modifications to the way in which they function.

Where can I find helpful support?

There are many support organisations that can help and who will be able to answer many of their questions, dealing with concerns at the same time and putting them in touch with helpful professionals. Although their routine may change in that they have to deal with many more personal challenges, this does not mean that they cannot live a near normal life. By having people around that can offer support and finding out as much as they can about their condition, sufferers can still live a quality life and a happy one.

I’m struggling, who can I ask for help?

Epilepsy can also bring with it feelings of anger, frustration and depression. The depression may be worsened by the seizures or impacted upon by medication or external factors. If you know someone that is feeling like this, always suggest that they contact their doctor as they will be able to offer support and maybe prescribe treatment.

How can I prepare in case I have seizure outside?

Sufferers of epilepsy should always try to let others know that they have epilepsy and they can do this by wearing an ID necklace or bracelet. In case of emergencies, they should keep their mobile phone updated with a number to call. This does not mean that they have to discuss their condition with everyone that they meet but if they think they may have seizures whilst in the presence of others then it may be wise to inform them.

Most of all, keep them positive. By making the most of support networks, friends, family and treatments on offer, they can live their life the way that they want to.

Have you have had any experience of caring for someone with epilepsy? Let us know any advice you would give to help people who have recently been diagnosed on our Facebook https://facebook.com/lavorocare or Tweet at us https://twitter.com/joblavoro .

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