MEMORY
Memory difficulties are one of the most common concerns reported by adults living with epilepsy. While some people experience little or no impact on memory or thinking, many notice changes that affect everyday life.
Epilepsy can influence memory in different ways. Some memory problems occur during or immediately after a seizure, when the brain is recovering. For others, ongoing seizures or long‑term treatment can affect how well new information is stored or recalled. People with poor seizure control often report greater challenges with memory and concentration.
How Epilepsy Can Affect Memory
Memory issues may be linked to:
- Seizures themselves – especially the period during and after a seizure
- Frequent or uncontrolled seizures, which can disrupt normal brain function over time
- Anti‑seizure medications, which may affect attention, processing speed, or recall
- Underlying brain changes related to the cause of epilepsy
- Fatigue, stress, anxiety, or depression, which can make memory problems feel worse
These factors can vary from person to person, and not everyone with epilepsy will experience memory difficulties.
Why Memory Problems Matter
Changes in memory can affect:
- Work, study, and daily tasks
- Confidence and independence
- Social interactions and relationships
- Emotional wellbeing
Understanding how epilepsy affects memory is an important step toward finding strategies that support thinking, learning, and everyday functioning.
Click on the videos below to hear Dr Laurie Miller, a Senior Clinical Neuropsychologist explain the different aspects of memory in relation to epilepsy, starting with a simple test to do at home.
Testing memory
Factors that affect memory
Types of memory
Impact on memory
Memory Strategies
Memory assessments
Memory problems
Remembering Names
Retaining new memories
A program to help with your memory
MEMORehab is a program that will help you learn strategies to improve your memory and teach you about how the brain works . It involves six, one-hour interactive sessions led by a clinician and provides numerous additional online educational and practice materials.
Useful Links
EAA website: Lifestyle Issues: Memory
Factsheet: Epilepsy and Memory
Article by Dr Laurie Miller: If only I could remember
