Abstracts

RATIONALE: The number of older adults with epilepsy is increasing and the highest incidence and prevalence of seizures is within this population. There is limited to no information regarding how independent older adults perceive and comprehend seizures and epilepsy. Phoenix is home to one of the largest populations of older adults in the United States. This information will be used to develop educational tools to further promote understanding of epilepsy within this population. On completion of this activity, participants will have a better understanding of older adults[ssquote] perceptions of seizures.
METHODS: Independent older adults completed a survey consisting of 28 questions regarding personal perceptions and attitudes about epilepsy. Surveys were conducted at various older adult community centers in metropolitan Phoenix in April 2002. Older adults ([[gt]60) without a history of seizures or epilepsy were included. The survey assessed knowledge of first aid for seizures and understanding of this condition compared with other chronic diseases.
RESULTS: 104 surveys were completed by 32 male and 72 female participants ages 60-99. The average age of respondents was 77. Most were familiar with seizures or epilepsy by either knowing somebody (67%) or having witnessed a seizure (69%). A sizeable minority of respondents had significant misperceptions about epilepsy. Twenty-eight percent either considered epilepsy a form of mental illness or were uncertain if it represented one. Eight percent believed that seizures were contagious. Only 53% were able to correctly identify various symptoms of different seizure types. A concerning majority of respondents had misunderstandings about seizure first aid. Sixty-nine percent were uncertain as to how to help someone with a seizure either suggesting or being uncertain that something needs to be placed in the mouth or that the individual should be held down during a seizure. Several differences emerged between male and female responders regarding who they would tell about having seizures. Thirty-seven percent of men and 25% of women would tell a family member. Fourteen percent of females would tell a friend and 19% would tell anyone, while only 2% and 9% of male respondents would tell a friend or anyone respectively. Fifty-six percent of all respondents would not tell their doctor. When epilepsy was compared to other medical conditions, such as arthritis, cancer, diabetes, pulmonary and heart disease, 7% of respondents feared chronic seizures most. Forty-eight percent indicated that they were not completely familiar with epilepsy. There were significant psychosocial misperceptions in the respondents. Forty-seven percent either were uncertain or believed that individuals with seizures should not live independently. Fifty-one percent were uncertain or believed that individuals with seizures should not have children. Nearly one-third (29%) were uncertain if people with seizures were violent.
CONCLUSIONS: Older adults in Phoenix Arizona have misperceptions about seizures and epilepsy, which may be indicative of how many older Americans view this condition. A larger population based study is needed to further define how to best structure community educational programs about epilepsy in older adults.