National Epilepsy Week – raising awareness

From the 18th to 24th May, National Epilepsy Week highlights the importance of reminding those who suffer from the condition that they shouldn’t feel alone.

Share this article

What is epilepsy?

Epilepsy is common in the UK, affecting around 600,000 people (or approx. 1 in 10 of us). It’s a condition that causes epileptic seizures when a sudden burst of electrical activity takes place in the brain, causing it to temporarily stop working as it should. There are many different types of epileptic seizure which can happen for various reasons, so understandably it can make daily life difficult for those affected. Many of whom don’t feel confident going outside or taking on everyday tasks such as going to work.

Raising awareness

From the 18th to 24th May, National Epilepsy Week highlights the importance of reminding those who suffer from the condition that they shouldn’t feel alone. As an alternative to meeting in public spaces, not currently allowed because of COVID-19 social distancing measures, online virtual groups have been set up for people to share their experiences and find support using the Zoom app.

The week-long event is organised by Epilepsy Action, a UK charity that gives expert advice to those directly affected and aims to reduce isolation through providing support groups. It also raises public awareness, influences decision-makers, pioneers research and keeps professionals up to date with the latest developments in epilepsy care.

As well as connecting people through online meetings, Epilepsy Action have introduced a new website aimed at a young audience called The Epilepsy Space and a new epilepsy focused podcast hosted by footballer Leon Legg. To get more of us moving outdoors, a Step Challenge has been issued, asking everyone to go new distances by walking the same number of steps it takes to climbs a mountain whilst encouraging participants to set up a fundraising page to gather support.

Using CareDocs

When you initially assess your residents, one of the questions you will be asked is whether they suffer from epilepsy. The answer you give will then form part of their personalised care plan. If you answered ‘Yes’ to this question, you can access the seizure monitoring form and reporting function, so you can record seizures and include any necessary written updates you want to share.

You can also enter the condition in the resident’s Personal Details section, so everyone will instantly be made aware. For further information on using forms and reports on CareDocs, please contact our friendly support team today 0330 056 3333 or via email at support@caredocs.co.uk.

More resources

What to do when someone has a seizure: 
www.epilepsy.org.uk/info/firstaid/what-to-do

Treatment for seizures over 5 minutes: 
www.epilepsy.org.uk/info/firstaid/emergency-treatment-seizures-last-long-time

Free epilepsy treatment training course: 
https://learn.epilepsy.org.uk/what-to-do-when-someone-has-a-seizure/

NHS Guidance on epilepsy: 
www.nhs.uk/conditions/epilepsy/ 

Originally published on May 22, 2020
Originally published on May 22, 2020
Article updated on April 22, 2022

Share this article

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
WhatsApp
Email

Author

Search

Book a demo

Book a free demo to see how we can transform your business.

Find Out More...

Book a demo...

Don't miss out!

Subscribe to our newsletter before you go for updates, offers & more...