What Are Epilepsy Caregivers and What Do They Do?

If you or someone you love has epilepsy, you know it's a challenging condition that requires specialized care. According to the CDC, 1.2% of the U.S. population has epilepsy—that's approximately 3 million adults and 470,000 children. This type of brain disorder can present itself in different ways and has various underlying causes, such as

• Strokes
• Brain tumors
• Traumatic brain injury
• Central nervous system infection 

Epilepsy caregivers provide care and support to those living with epilepsy and often play a crucial role in managing the challenges of this condition, such as seizures, medication management, and lifestyle adjustments. 

Let’s discuss how to support someone with epilepsy!

How to Help Someone with Epilepsy 

Knowing how to support someone with epilepsy starts with clearly understanding their needs. Here are some ways an epilepsy caregiver can provide care: 

Recognize Seizure Patterns

You can pay attention to any patterns or triggering factors leading to a person’s seizure. This information is helpful for the individual and their healthcare team, particularly those who do not recall their seizures. 

Be An Advocate

You could also be responsible for transporting the individual to their medical appointments, where you can provide helpful information to the person’s providers. As an epilepsy caregiver, you can also advocate and ensure they receive the services they need.

Ensure Safety During Seizures

Seizures can be sudden and require immediate attention. Keeping the individual safe during these vulnerable moments is crucial. 

You may need to:

• Remove any harmful objects in the surrounding area
• Help them to a safe position
• Ensure that the seizure runs its course without interruption

Provide Prompt Medical Assistance

You can learn basic first aid for someone suffering from an epileptic seizure by visiting the Seizure First Aid through The Epilepsy Foundation. You can also call for medical help if needed.

Manage Seizure Medications

Provide medication reminders of any anti-seizure medication that has been prescribed to help your care recipient manage their condition.

Create a Safe Living Environment. 

Adaptive changes to the individual’s home or lifestyle can significantly enhance the safety and comfort of the individual. Be sure to help provide safeguards around cooking and bathing areas, in particular, and ensure there are safe places to go if a seizure is imminent. 

Caring for Someone with Epilepsy

Caring for someone with epilepsy takes patience, vigilance, and empathy. We fully understand and appreciate the weight of this responsibility and recognize that, sometimes, epilepsy caregivers also need care. 

At Best Care, we're always available to answer your questions and guide you through your family caregiving career. You don't have to walk this path alone. Best Care is with you every step!