HOBSCOTCH
HOBSCOTCH (home-based self-management and cognitive training changes lives) is an evidence-based self-management program that helps improve the lives of people with epilepsy. While not a cure, HOBSCOTCH helps adults with seizure disorders manage and cope with memory and thinking challenges to lead happier, more productive lives.
Managing a condition like epilepsy can be complex and frustrating. Seizures can make it hard to work, go to school, drive, and take part in social activities. More than half of people with seizures experience cognitive problems including difficulties with memory, attention, thinking, and planning. Sometimes epilepsy treatment makes these activities harder, too.
HOBSCOTCH is an evidence-based self-management program that helps improve the lives of people with epilepsy. While not a cure, HOBSCOTCH helps adults with seizure disorders manage and cope with memory challenges to lead happier, more productive lives.
The HOBSCOTCH program targets cognitive problems in adults with epilepsy. Developed in the Epilepsy Center, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Centre in New Hampshire, USA. HOBSCOTCH uses psychological strategies to improve cognitive function. The program is effective for adults with epilepsy who have controlled or uncontrolled seizures.
This program teaches self-management through one-on-one sessions between a client and a certified HOBSCOTCH Cognitive Coach. Program participants set the goals for each session. With their coach, participants identify cognitive problems and build solutions. The result: Clients feel more in control.
The EAM certified cognitive coach can answer any questions you might have.
You must be 18 years or older and complete a brief screening interview to determine eligibility
Key Components to HOBSCOTCH:
- Education to teach you the basics about memory and how seizures and variables related to epilepsy may impact your memory and cognition.
- Self-awareness training to teach you to be aware of the multiple internal and external influences that may impact memory and thinking.
- Memory strategies to help improve day-to-day cognitive challenges. The HOBSCOTCH Memory Toolbox provides tried and true strategies to help you feel more in control.
- Problem Solving Therapy (PST) to help you identify memory-related challenges in your daily life and find solutions to manage these problems.
- Mindfulness, including progressive muscle relaxation and deep breathing exercises, to help reduce stress and anxiety.
The program consists of eight one on one coaching sessions, each session lasting 45-60 minutes. The sessions are conducted virtually via Teams. Susan Rahey, our Education and Support Coordinator recently completed the required training and is a certified memory coach for HOBSCOTCH. Contact Susan at 902-429-2633 or at susan.rahey@epilepsymaritimes.org to see if you are eligible for this free Program.