THE EXPERIENCE OF LATE-ONSET EPILEPSY AMONG TAIWANESE ADULTS: A DESCRIPTIVE STUDY

Abstract

Numerous researchers worldwide have reported on the dramatic increase in the prevalence of epilepsy among older people in the past few decades. In Taiwan, the incidence of epilepsy in the population of age 40 and older is 2.5 per 1,000 people. Compared to residents in western countries, Chinese generally hold more negative attitudes toward people with epilepsy. However, little research exists on how people with epilepsy view their disease within a Chinese cultural context. Thus, the purpose of this study was to describe the experiences of Taiwanese adults with late -onset epilepsy. Using descriptive research techniques, a qualitative study design, and content analysis of transcribed interviews, the author identified five thematic categories: (1) The name of epilepsy (cultural dimension); (2) epilepsy and me (personal dimension); (3) epilepsy as a family affair (family dimension); (4) to tell or not to tell (social network dimension); and (5) help seeking dimension. The study findings can be used to assist the efforts of nurses to provide culturally appropriate care for Chinese adults with late -onset epilepsy.