Self-Management Intervention for Adults with Epilepsy: A Systematic Review

This study aimed to systematically review randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating self-management interventions for adult patients with epilepsy, examine their characteristics and effects, and suggest suitable intervention strategies for clinical application. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in five databases: CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Embase, PubMed, and Web of Science. RCTs published between January 2019 and October 2024 were included. Eight eligible studies were selected and analyzed in terms of intervention content, duration, frequency, delivery method, and outcome measures, including quality of life, self-management ability, and self-efficacy. Among the eight included studies, statistically significant improvements were reported in quality of life in three studies (37.5%), self-management ability in three studies (37.5%), and self-efficacy in two studies (25.0%). Interventions conducted over 6 months with biweekly or weekly sessions tended to show more favorable outcomes. Face-to-face education and telephone-based support were commonly used and were associated with positive results. Digital interventions, such as mobile applications, showed limited effectiveness when used alone but tended to be more effective when interactive features were included. These findings suggest that a hybrid approach combining initial face-to-face education with ongoing telephone or digital support may be appropriate for adults with epilepsy. A 6-month intervention period with regular biweekly or weekly sessions may be optimal. For digital tools, interactive components should be integrated to sustain engagement and enhance outcomes.