Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a neurological condition that affects the brain and can cause seizures. A seizure happens when there is a sudden burst of electrical activity in the brain, which can temporarily affect movement, awareness, behaviour, feelings or consciousness.
Epilepsy affects people differently. Some people have seizures that are well controlled with medication, while others may experience more regular or unpredictable seizures. The support someone needs will depend on their type of seizures, daily routine, confidence, independence, risks and any medical advice or care plan they have in place.
Living with epilepsy
Living with epilepsy often involves understanding seizure triggers where known, taking prescribed medication correctly, attending medical reviews, and making sure the people providing support know what to do if a seizure happens.
Some people may have a seizure care plan explaining what usually happens during their seizures, how long they normally last, what support is needed afterwards, and when emergency help should be sought. If rescue medication is prescribed, this should only be given by someone who has been trained and where this has been clearly agreed.
Basic seizure first aid usually focuses on keeping the person safe, staying calm, moving hazards away, timing the seizure, not restraining the person, not putting anything in their mouth, and staying with them until they have recovered.
Common symptoms or difficulties linked to epilepsy may include:
Seizures can look different from person to person. Some may involve shaking, stiffness or loss of consciousness, while others may be more subtle, such as staring blankly, confusion, unusual movements, changes in awareness, or not responding for a short time.
Anyone with new, changing or worsening seizures should seek medical advice.
How practical support may help
A Personal Assistant may be able to provide practical day-to-day support for someone living with epilepsy, depending on their needs and what has been agreed. This could include help with meal preparation, light housework, shopping, attending appointments, collecting prescriptions, companionship, personal care, or getting out into the community.
Where seizure awareness, medication reminders, safety planning or support after a seizure are part of the person’s needs, these should be discussed clearly in advance. Any support should follow the person’s agreed care plan and professional medical advice, and the PA should only provide support that is appropriate to their role, knowledge and experience.
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