Abstract

Little is known about life with epilepsy in rural contexts of developed countries. The aim of this study was to describe life with epilepsy from the perspective of rural adults. The qualitative design was interpretive description. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of nine participants recruited from two clinics offering neurological consultation in northern Ontario, Canada. The participants described a temporalized perspective of life with epilepsy. This involved an assemblage of experiences, commencing with the onset of symptoms and associated losses; progressing to day-to-day actions for well-being and safety; and culminating in aspirations for a desired future. The three themes were labeled apprehended life, daily quest, and future aspirations. The onset of epilepsy apprehended their life, necessitating an altered life course for the immediate and foreseeable future. Participants’ day-to-day life involved balancing threats to and actions for well-being. Their current ways of being and reparation for past losses shaped their individualized future life visions. Results of this study suggest opportunities for rural healthcare providers to support adults living with epilepsy through enhancing public education and awareness; advocating for support services, accommodations, and community resources; strengthening care coordination; and advancing knowledge.