Seizure disorder is also known as epilepsy. It is a condition of the brain. There are many types of disorders in the elderly. These include CVA or stroke, TIA or transient ischemic attack, Parkinson’s Disease, Alzheimer’s Disease, dementia, Lou Gehrig’s Disease, closed head injury, headaches, brain tumor, subdural hemotoma and seizure disorder. Poorly controlled diabetes can also cause seizures in the elderly. Other diseases that are associated with seizures are kidney disease and liver disease.

Head trauma accounts for 21 percent of seizures in the elderly. Alzheimer’s Disease is also a known factor for 16 percent of individuals that develop seizures.

Seizures can be quite frightening, both to the individual and to those witnessing them. It is important for the care taker to be calm. Place the person in a safe and comfortable position, do not restrain them and make sure the airway is open and not obstructed. Stay with them until the seizure has passed. Seek medical help as soon as possible.

The staff of Heritage Manor would like to welcome Jessie Ben, Jacqueline Marchand, Lucinda Jack and Mary Demoruelle to the facility.

The staff of Heritage Manor would like to extend its deepest sympathy to the families of Lena Rae Fontenot and Mable Lafleur.

Activities for this week include VFW barbecue, VFW Ladies’ Auxiliary bingo, rosary, mass, exercise, coffee and treats, Wii games, hot dollar, bingo sponsored by Guardian Hospice, jingo, New Life Assembly of God prayer team, manicures, Come Lord Jesus, pokeno card games and bingo sponsored by Blake’s Family Pharmacy.