What's next? Can people with epilepsy live on their own? What problems might they have? What if they need more help?

Managing epilepsy is more than just the knowing how to handle the medical aspects or knowing how to stay safe. A key part is knowing how it can affect a person's independence and living needs and being able to get the help that is needed. Many things can affect a person's ability to live independently and work, play and socialize in their community. The list is endless but here's a few things to consider...

  • Seizure type, severity or frequency
  • After effects or postictal symptoms of a seizure
  • Impact of seizures and side effects of treatment on cognition, mood, social abilities and relationships, and more
  • Other neurological and developmental challenges - they may be part of the epilepsy sydrome or occur as a consequence or impact of having epilepsy
  • Attitudes and beliefs 
  • Available resources and supports
  • The environment and area where the person lives 
  • Cost of living, the person's financial stability and resources

This section will explore independent living concerns, focusing on what you need to know, how to manage these, and where to find help. Come back frequently as more areas are added to address the diversity of the epilepsies and the range of challenges people may encounter.