Q.89. Is epilepsy common in Senior Citizens?

Ans: Ofcourse Yes At one time it was believed that epilepsy is common only in children and adolescents, however there is a second peak of incidence in elderly occurring between the age group of 50-70 years.

Q.90. What are the causes of Epilepsy in elderly ?

Ans: The most common cause is cerebral stroke (brain attack) This could be major stroke causing paralysis with epilepsy at later stage or little strokes which may cause only epilepsy and not apparent paralysis.

Q.91. Is there any thing special about the treatment issues in Sr citizen?

Ans: The antiepileptic drugs are same as in other age group. However the tolerance of the drugs is poor resulting in side effects; in addition there may be multiple diseases co-existing like hypertension, diabetes with lot of drug interaction.

Q.92. Any other specific points ?

Ans: Besides the above the tendency to fall as a result of seizure may and break the bones thus causing more disability.