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Epilepsy and learning disability
The prevalence of epilepsy in people with a learning disability is just over 22% compared with 0.4-1% in the general population.
In people with a learning disability and epilepsy, the risk of additional impairments is high and the risk increases with the level of learning disability. They may have additional complex physical, sensory impairments and/or communication difficulties. These factors present greater challenges for managing and treating epilepsy. Our staff are skilled and experienced in the observation and recording of seizures in this client group and can help to lessen the impact of their seizures on their day to day life.
People with a learning disability and epilepsy will often be taking a number of anti-epileptic drugs to control their seizures. This requires good management and our staff are trained to observe both the positive and negative impact of medication on seizures and behaviour. The impact of epilepsy on an individual’s lifestyle can be reduced if it is confidently managed. Consequently, the individual can continue to live with epilepsy as a consideration rather than a dominant feature.
Therapeutic drug monitoring is essential and we have a specialist laboratory that provides a national service. Our clients have immediate access to a neurologist who can request investigations such as EEG, video telemetry, MRI scans which are all available at our specialist centre. Thus we can ensure the best treatment for all our clients.
Our care is not solely concentrated on treatment and management of epilepsy. We place great importance on our clients’ quality of life. Our staff are focussed on providing individualised, person-centred care and empowering clients to take control of their own lives. Clients are fully involved in their care plans which will be outcome based. We also aim to give clients greater independence through the use of assistive technology. This could be something as simple as a seizure alarm and our occupational therapists may also be involved in sourcing bespoke technology for some clients.
