Healthcare medical aspects of epilepsy in old age

Epilepsy is one of the most frequent chronic diseases of the central nervous system. Although its prevalence increases with age the diagnosis in later life is made difficult by an altered semiology and comorbidities that probably result in a constant underdiagnosis among elderly individuals. The likelihood of seizure-related injuries and accidents increases with age. Risk factors include frequent seizures with falls and loss of consciousness. Many elderly epilepsy patients are seen by family physicians and treated with older anticonvulsants; therefore, direct costs of illness tend to be lower compared to younger patients. The social consequences of epilepsy in the elderly can be substantial, may lead to severe restrictions of mobility and can result in loss of self-sufficient living.