The ASAA A.W.A.K.E. Network is composed of hundreds of mutual-help support groups in nearly all 50 states for people affected by sleep apnea.
The
Network, founded in 1988, is an integral part of the American Sleep
Apnea Association (ASAA) and since 1990, the two have been partners in
assisting patients, their families, and the healthcare community
concerned with sleep apnea. Committed to the belief that the ASAA
A.W.A.K.E. Network must be patient-centered, local A.W.A.K.E. members
plan and implement each group's activities so that they meet the needs
of each individual group. Meetings, led by the A.W.A.K.E.
coordinator, are held regularly and guest speakers are often invited
to address the group. Topics may include advice on complying with
CPAP therapy, legal issues affecting those with sleep apnea, weight
loss, and new research findings.
Armed with knowledge about sleep apnea and methods of treatment,
members of the ASAA A.W.A.K.E. Network have a better understanding of
the nature of their disorder and their prescribed treatment; thus they
are more likely to take appropriate steps in managing their own health
care. Network members are also apprised of the latest developments in
the sleep field, and as informed individuals, A.W.A.K.E. members can
play an important role in educating the public about this common
disorder. In addition, through interactions with others who share
this diagnosis, persons with sleep apnea and their families can
provide peer support and can suggest coping mechanisms to each other
so that the sense of isolation common to sleep apnea patients may be
alleviated.
While A.W.A.K.E. members view key parts of the sleep community as
providing a valuable resource to them, the ASAA A.W.A.K.E. Network
yields a beneficial experience for the staff of a sleep center or a
home health care company as well. Like the patients, health care
professionals benefit from the educational programs and also from the
additional opportunities for patient follow-up. This encourages
better communication among the patient, the sleep center's staff, and
the home health care company and furthers the ASAA A.W.A.K.E.
Network's goal of advancing better health for people with sleep apnea.
For more information, contact us.
Thinking about starting an A.W.A.K.E. group in your community? View information for potential A.W.A.K.E. coordinators or sleep professionals.
Already a coordinator? View the Coordinator's Area for news and support.
