I became my mom’s caregiver overnight

Louis Torre may be nearly 3,000 miles from his mother in New York, but her care is never far from his mind — or his phone. At any moment, it might buzz with a nurse’s call, a prescription message or a reminder about something she needs.​

After Louis’ father died in 2021, managing his mother’s care from Los Angeles became Louis’ responsibility. She was diagnosed with Parkinson’s at 51, earlier than most people with the disease. As an only child, Louis oversees the many pieces — treatment plans, supplies, doctors, nurses and pharmacy care. His mother receives 24-hour nursing care, while nearby family and friends help with daily tasks.​

“Caring for Mom switched really quickly to me overnight,” Louis said. “I was overwhelmed. I didn’t know what I was doing at first.”​

The CVS Health® app helps bridge the distance, serving as a hub for coordinating and tracking his mother's care. Louis can review medications and dosages, respond to pharmacy updates, make CVS Pharmacy vaccination appointments and order over-the-counter products.​

“The app keeps everything all in one place and is user-friendly,” he said. “It just saves time and makes my life simpler.”​

One medication is filled through CVS Specialty. Louis answers a short questionnaire about any health or medication changes, then arranges the refill and delivery.​

“With CVS Health, I don’t feel like I’m managing this alone,” he said. “It makes me feel like someone’s on my team.”​

Louis returns to see his mom every couple of months. With more of her care organized between visits, they can make the most of their time together.​

“When health care is easier and it’s taken care of, you can focus on the things that actually matter,” Louis said. “Spending quality time together, laughing and enjoying old stories rather than talking about medications.”​