New Caregiver Guide Helps Battle Against Dementia

Shorewood, Ill.

When author Edward J. Merzlock's mother developed dementia, his heart ached as he watched the once-sharp woman forget her precious memories and the family members around her. During this difficult time, Merzlock relied heavily on a dementia support group for reassurance and understanding.

In an effort to pay the support forward to other caregivers, Merzlock releases his new care-giving guide, "As Mom Fades Away: A Son's Personal Story of a Once Sharp Mind Destroyed by Dementia." (published by Trafford Publishing), to offer support and comfort to others who are caring for their elderly parents or loved ones.

Merzlock's guide covers dementia from start to finish, explaining the progression of the disease and how the mind is destroyed over time. Merzlock explains what doctors did to help his mother and some of the challenges they faced, as well as the financial and legal issues he dealt with.

The book also provides day-to-day snapshots of life with a dementia patient. Merzlock candidly remembers the variety of frustrations of caring for his mother, assuring readers that these feelings are okay to have. Ultimately, he concludes, looking after his mother in her final years was a privilege, and he hopes readers will feel the same about their loved ones.

"Trying to handle this role alone can destroy a person," Merzlock says. "A caregiver needs a wide range of skills to handle the variety of situations they will face. This is a long and difficult road. I also stress the advocate role in fighting for the loved one afflicted with the disease."

"As Mom Fades Away"
By Edward J. Merzlock
Hardcover | 6 x 9 in | 102 pages | ISBN 9781490754192
Softcover | 6 x 9 in | 102 pages | ISBN 9781490754208
E-Book | 102 pages | ISBN 9781490754185
Available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble

About the Author
Edward J. Merzlock was born and raised in Joliet, Illinois. He attended local schools and still lives in the area. "As Mom Fades Away" is his first book.

Trafford Publishing, an Author Solutions, LLC, author services imprint, was the first publisher in the world to offer an "on-demand publishing service," and has led the independent publishing revolution since its establishment in 1995. Trafford was also one of the earliest publishers to utilize the Internet for selling books. More than 10,000 authors from over 120 countries have utilized Trafford's experience for self publishing their books. For more information about Trafford Publishing, or to publish your book today, call 1-888-232-4444 or visit trafford.com.

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