Design and feasibility of a memory intervention with focus on self-management for cognitive impairment in epilepsy

Epilepsy Behav. 2015 Mar:44:192-4. doi: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2014.12.036. Epub 2015 Feb 27.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility of a self-management intervention targeting cognitive dysfunction to improve quality of life and reduce memory-related disability in adults with epilepsy. The intervention incorporates (1) education on cognitive function in epilepsy, (2) self-awareness training, (3) compensatory strategies, and (4) application of these strategies in day-to-day life using problem-solving therapy. In addition to the behavioral modification, formal working memory training was conducted by utilizing a commercially available program in a subgroup of patients. Our findings suggest that a self-management intervention targeting cognitive dysfunction was feasible for delivery to a rural population with epilepsy, with 13 of 16 enrolled participants completing the 8-session program. Qualitative data indicate high satisfaction and subjective improvement in cognitive functioning in day-to-day life. These findings provide support for further evaluation of the efficacy of this intervention through a randomized controlled trial.

Keywords: Cognition; Comorbidity; Epilepsy; Memory; Self-management.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cognition
  • Cognition Disorders / complications
  • Cognition Disorders / rehabilitation*
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / methods*
  • Epilepsy / complications
  • Epilepsy / rehabilitation*
  • Feasibility Studies
  • Female
  • Focus Groups
  • Humans
  • Learning
  • Male
  • Memory
  • Memory, Short-Term*
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Satisfaction
  • Problem Solving
  • Quality of Life
  • Rural Population
  • Self Care / methods*
  • Telephone*
  • Young Adult