A method for operating a memory device comprising at least one memory unit. The at least one memory unit includes a bistable multivibrator and two access transistors for the controllable connection of the bistable multivibrator to two secondary control lines associated with the at least one memory unit. The connection of the bistable multivibrator to the two secondary control lines can be controlled using a first primary control line. The method includes: applying a control signal to a control terminal of at least one of the two access transistors in such a way that a load path of the at least one access transistor is at least partially electrically conductive, with respect to a high-resistance state of the load path of the at least one access transistor; determining a first variable which characterizes at least one current flowing through the load path of the at least one access transistor.