Cognitive retraining in epilepsy

Abstract

Epilepsy is the commonest neurological disorder, so there is a need to establish more effective remedial programmes for the deficits in cognitive functioning associated with epilepsy. The present paper studies the relative change in the targeted skill areas as a consequence of cognitive retraining. For this purpose, a pre- and post-multiple baseline design was adopted with the intention of treating specific deficient skill. The measures of neuropsychological functioning adopted were a composite of tests/tasks, with specific emphasis on attention, memory and emotional status. The subject was targeted to a special neuro-rehabilitation programme comprised of cognitive retraining, supportive therapy and a deep breathing relaxation exercise. A regular home intervention programme was conducted simultaneously. Cognitive retraining included both paper and pencil tasks and real life activities. The training programme covered a 6-week period and each weekly session lasted ~1 hour. The results showed an overall improvement in cognitive performance across sessions, and the regular home intervention sessions were found to have enhanced the subject's performance. In conclusion, it was noted that by identifying cognitive deficits, effective training programmes can be devised that will be of substantial benefit to patients with epilepsy