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Real members of MyEpilepsyTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

a medical condition like epilepsy. Has anyone else heard this? I’m curious.

April 17
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Answer Summary

Members discussed whether turning 50 automatically qualifies someone with epilepsy for disability benefits, with many sharing that the rule is... Read more

Members discussed whether turning 50 automatically qualifies someone with epilepsy for disability benefits, with many sharing that the rule is more nuanced and depends on factors like ability to work and drive, severity of seizures, and the state you live in. Several members shared personal experiences navigating Social Security Disability claims, with conditions like hydrocephalus, learning disabilities, leg weakness, and fatigue all playing a role in building a strong case. A recurring theme was the importance of working closely with an attorney, getting thorough medical documentation, and leaning on community support while managing the daily challenges of epilepsy and related conditions.

A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

@A MyEpilepsyTeam Member
I’m sorry you have to battle temporal lobe seizures too. I wouldn’t have been able to complete high school if my mom hadn’t done my homework with me and read every book I had to read. I was on the 504 Plan that let me use notes on tests and take them open book. I was even allowed to take videos home that we watched in class. My mom still takes care of all of my paperwork and appointments. Even in my 40’s I can’t remember anything so I’ve never even read a newspaper. I’ll try to be positive though.

May 3
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

@A MyEpilepsyTeam Member
I have that as you and I've had times of difficulty. I wasn't able to finish high school, that being the time I had my car accident. I was determined to get my GED in which I did in my mid 30's. Not saying things are easy, but if you stay positive and determined I feel you and any1 else can too.

May 3
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

@A MyEpilepsyTeam Member
If you have temporal lobe epilepsy, like me, that’s where your learning disability comes from. Your hippocampus is the part of your brain that stores memories (remembers) and it is located in the temporal lobe. The dead brain cells in the temporal lobe causes memory issues. I started having learning disabilities the same month I started having seizures.

May 2
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

Hoping you enjoy having it, I did at the time. How crazy traffic is here even if I could drive again, I wouldn't. I've been in a couple of accidents and wouldn't want to take the chance of being in another.

April 24
A MyEpilepsyTeam Member

I think that depends on where you're located. I did have to stop working and driving when my seizures got more severe. When I had my surgeries and no longer had seizures at the time. After year and my Dr.s note on being able to drive again, I went and after my passing the test, I drove again until the seizures started again 9 years later. Plus age doesn't matter, how severe you have them does.

April 21

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