Quality of life in epilepsy (QOLIE): insights about epilepsy and support groups from people with epilepsy (San Francisco Bay Area, USA)

Abstract

Introduction: This study evaluated quality of life (QOL) in people with epilepsy (PWE) in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Methods: This was a qualitative study examining QOL through the use of focus groups and of the QOLIE-31-P survey instrument. Six focus groups were conducted to examine self-reported challenges due to epilepsy. Focus groups were conducted for individuals who did and did not attend support groups.

Results: Individuals with epilepsy reported substantial difficulties with finances, physical and psychosocial functioning. Also, limited knowledge about services and relatively negative feelings toward self were common among newly diagnosed participants.

Conclusion: Many of the issues surrounding QOL and challenges were shared across groups. Epilepsy-related social services appeared to be useful in helping PWE cope and in increasing PWE's awareness of key enabling services. Although many individuals with epilepsy reported poor QOL and other challenges, epilepsy-related services may be under-utilized due to a lack of awareness.