TAS Poll #4: Effects of Friends and Family on Sleep Apnea Diagnosis and Treatment

Talk About Sleep has long been known for its patient support services which include providing information to all who write or phone us seeking help. Would it surprise you to know that many requests come from the spouses, family members or friends of the sleep disorder patient? A sleepy person may not have the energy or stamina to recognize a sleep problem and seek an evaluation, diagnosis and ultimately treatment. We do not want to overlook the needs of those who take the roll of advocate or caregiver.

This poll will help us in development of providing support for family and friends of sleep disorder patients.

Who took the initiative to find out about your sleepy condition before your diagnosis?

	Myself
	Bed partner
	Family member
	Friend

Other (please specify):

After a sleep disorder was suspected, who prompted you to seek evaluation and diagnosis?

	Myself
	Bed partner
	Family member
	Friend

Other (please specify):

Who supported you through the CPAP adjustment period? (Check all that apply)

    Bed partner
    Family member
    Friend
    My equipment provider
    My sleep physician
    Online chat rooms
    Online message boards
    No one

My support network has told me they noticed positive improvement in my: (Check all that apply)

    Memory
    Mood
    Productivity
    Concentration
    Alertness
    Attention span
    Energy
    Weight
    Depression
    Overall health

We would like to know which members of your support network were most helpful to you. Please rate how significant each of the following were in your diagnosis and treatment of sleep apnea.

Bed partner