A Delaware nonprofit
Serving adults with hydrocephalus, including normal-pressure hydrocephalus, people who have lived with a shunt since childhood, and those who developed it after a brain injury or illness.
Educate, support, connect
We train professionals to recognize changes in daily function and refer appropriately, teach families to notice and describe changes, and connect people with peer support and resources.
Adults are often missed
Changes in walking, thinking, and bladder control are often blamed on aging or another condition, and most hydrocephalus support is built for children.
Why AHSN exists
Hydrocephalus in adults can look like "just getting older." Slower or shuffling walking, forgetfulness, and bladder problems come on gradually and are easy to overlook. When changes are missed, people and families may wait a long time for answers.
AHSN helps close that gap so adults are recognized sooner and supported better. We are starting in Delaware and building a model other states can use.
Founded by someone who lives it
Dr. Ivelisse (Ivy) Lazzarini is an occupational therapist and educator who has lived with hydrocephalus and a shunt. Read her story.
Find what you need
For families
What to watch for, how to write changes down, and how to prepare for appointments.
Families and caregiversFor professionals
A two-hour workshop on recognizing, documenting, and referring functional change.
Professionals
Free app
AHSN Companion
Write down changes in daily life using Usual, Change, When, and Impact, keep your questions in one place, and bring a clear one-page summary to every appointment. It also has a who-to-call guide and an emergency information sheet. Your notes stay on your phone.
Open the appHelpful resources
Delaware Aging and Disability Resource Center
Caregiver support, respite, and services. 1-800-223-9074 (24/7).
Hydrocephalus Association
Information, support, and a helpline. 888-598-3789 (weekdays 9 to 5 ET).