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Epilepsy in the elderly: Unique challenges in an increasingly prevalent population
Nastasija Lezaic1, Josée Roussy2, Hélène Masson1
1Department of Neurosciences, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada; Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Montreal, Canada.
Epilepsy & Behavior : E&B
|December 10, 2019
Summary
Epilepsy is more common in older adults, presenting unique diagnostic and treatment challenges due to age-related factors. This review covers epidemiology, diagnosis, and management of epilepsy in the elderly.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Neurology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Elderly individuals (≥60/65 years) are a growing population with higher epilepsy incidence and prevalence.
- Epilepsy diagnosis in the elderly is complex due to differing seizure causes and presentations compared to younger individuals.
- Common differential diagnoses include syncope and amyloid spells, complicating accurate diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of epilepsy in the elderly.
- To address the unique epidemiological, clinical, and diagnostic aspects of geriatric epilepsy.
- To discuss management strategies and prognosis for epilepsy in older adults.
Main Methods:
- This is a narrative review.
- The review synthesizes existing literature on epilepsy in the elderly.
- Key areas covered include epidemiology, clinical presentation, differential diagnosis, diagnostic evaluation, treatment, and prognosis.
Main Results:
- Epilepsy incidence and prevalence increase with age.
- Clinical manifestations and etiologies of seizures differ in the elderly.
- Age-related factors like polypharmacy and comorbidities complicate treatment.
Conclusions:
- Epilepsy in the elderly presents distinct challenges requiring tailored diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
- Understanding age-specific factors is crucial for effective management.
- Further research is needed to optimize epilepsy care in this growing population.
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