Effective group-based memory training for patients with epilepsy

Abstract Patients with epilepsy experience memory problems, but there have been few attempts to provide and evaluate the effectiveness of memory training. We designed a 6-week, group-based, psychoeducation and strategy course that was evaluated using a waitlist crossover design, with three assessmen...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Epilepsy & behavior 2011-10, Vol.22 (2), p.272-278
Main Authors: Radford, Kylie, Lah, Suncica, Thayer, Zoë, Miller, Laurie A
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Adolescent
Adult
Aged
Analysis of Variance
Anterograde memory
Behavior Therapy - methods
Brain lesions
Epilepsy - complications
Everyday memory
Female
Follow-Up Studies
Humans
Male
Memory Disorders - etiology
Memory Disorders - rehabilitation
Middle Aged
Neurology
Neuropsychological Tests
Prospective memory
Rehabilitation
Seizures
Self Report
Surveys and Questionnaires
Treatment Outcome
Verbal Learning - physiology
Young Adult
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Summary:Abstract Patients with epilepsy experience memory problems, but there have been few attempts to provide and evaluate the effectiveness of memory training. We designed a 6-week, group-based, psychoeducation and strategy course that was evaluated using a waitlist crossover design, with three assessments conducted 12 weeks apart. Thirty-one patients with a history of seizures participated. Significant gains were found on tests of anterograde (Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test) and appointment memory. In addition, patients reported using more strategies and experiencing fewer prospective memory difficulties in daily life. Memory was more likely to improve in participants who were younger, less educated, and less depressed. Moreover, lower baseline memory, but better attention corresponded to better outcome. Of the clinical variables related to epilepsy, only number of anticonvulsant medications was found to be associated with outcome. Our study provides evidence that a relatively short intervention can improve memory functioning in patients with epilepsy.
ISSN:1525-5050
1525-5069
DOI:10.1016/j.yebeh.2011.06.021