Impact of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) crisis on older patients with epilepsy

Abstract

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder that causes spontaneous recurrence of unprovoked seizures. The incidence rate is known to be bimodal with peaks in children and older people. Older people have been found to be particularly susceptible to threats posed by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). In this article, we discuss the vulnerability of older patients with epilepsy and the importance of comprehensive support for this population during the COVID-19 crisis. Epilepsy clinicians need to understand their situations in order to provide proper care for older patients with epilepsy.