DASN International is an internet based support network established to:

• Promote respect and dignity for persons with dementia
• Provide a forum for the exchange of  information,
• Encourage support mechanisms such as local groups, counseling groups and Internet linkages, and
• Advocate for services for people with dementia
• Assist people to connect with their local Alzheimer’s Association

Since its founding in 2000, DASNI has evolved as an international group of people with dementia.  Approximately one-third of members have dementia themselves.

DASNI activities currently include an Internet-based support group for people with various dementias and those involved with our well-being. DASNI has an email community. Twice-daily Internet chats in a chat room help ease the isolation of dementia and educates participants about living with their diseases.

The stigma of dementia is very real, very cruel and widespread.  There is also a lack of knowledge about dementias, the impact of new medications, and the support available.  By sharing their hopes and concerns, and participating in dementia-related activities, DASNI empowers people with dementia to actively participate in their own care and treatment. We support a more accepting, more hopeful view of living with dementia. We encourage people to improve the quality of their own life by advocating for others. 
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DASNI members have made presentations at Alzheimer’s Disease International conferences in Christchurch, New Zealand (2001), Barcelona, Spain (2002) and Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic (2003), Kyoto, Japan (2004), Istanbul Turkey (2005) and Berlin, Germany (2006).  Similar local and national presentations have been made throughout Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Europe, the Middle East, the United Kingdom, the United States and Brazil.

DASNI members have published books, given TV and radio interviews and written many articles on the subject of diagnosis and living with dementia.  Please our website for further information.

For local referrals to support groups and health care providers, and for more detailed information about the diseases that cause dementia, please contact your local Alzheimer’s Association.

EMAIL COMMUNITY:
health.groups.yahoo.com/group/DASN/

DAILY CHATS:
www.alzinfo.org/alztalk/flashchat.php

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