This archive report was first published on 13 May 2020.
Financial planning is crucial for individuals and families affected by epilepsy, a chronic health condition that can have a significant impact on a person's ability to work and care for themselves.
According to a study by healthtalk.org, people with poorly-controlled epilepsy often face challenges in their careers, limiting their earning potential. In contrast, those with well-controlled epilepsy and in full-time employment reported that their condition did not affect their finances.
When a family member has epilepsy, it's essential to prioritize, identify gaps, and seek help to fill those gaps. Consider the following questions:
- How does having epilepsy affect your job and income?
- Are you eligible for disability benefits, and will they meet your needs?
- How will your spouse's, partner's, or parent's epilepsy impact the family's financial stability?
- What extra care and services will your child with epilepsy require, and what out-of-pocket expenses can you expect?
- How will caring for a family member with epilepsy affect your ability to work, and what additional costs will you incur?
It's essential to think about the present while planning for the future, as the course of epilepsy can be unpredictable. The National Epilepsy Coordination Committee (NECC) National Secretary (Kenya) emphasizes the importance of financial planning in managing epilepsy.
As the writer notes, 'You may not know what direction or course the epilepsy may take over time.' Therefore, it's crucial to explore available resources and plan for the future.
