For Patients
Resources to help you navigate healthcare with confidence
Navigating Healthcare As We Age
Growing older brings wisdom—but also more complex healthcare needs. As someone who's navigated heart surgeries and years of caregiving, I understand the challenges firsthand.
That's why I've created these resources—to help older adults and their caregivers become confident healthcare navigators. These practical tools combine my personal experience with professional expertise in gerontology to address the real challenges of healthcare management.
Booklets
The Missing Care Manuals™: 51 Daily Life Strategies for Heart Valve Patients (Because Medicine Is Only Part of the Story)
This isn’t your typical medical guide - you’ve got your providers for that. Instead, these are the practical strategies I've learned through two valve surgeries and years of helping others. From setting up fail-proof medication systems to handling tough conversations with providers, these 51 tips come from real experience. They’re the things I wish someone had told me early on - the everyday solutions that make living with a heart valve more manageable.
Stay tuned for additional booklets coming soon.
“As a surgical cardiac nurse with over 30 years of experience, I found The Missing Care Manuals to be a much-needed and refreshingly practical resource for patients.”
- Steven, Cardiac Surgical Nurse
Additional booklets coming soon!
Patient Gear & Gifts
Browse our collection of shirts and gifts designed specifically for heart valve patients and their supporters. Each item reflects the unique experiences of the heart valve journey, whether you're looking for something for yourself or a meaningful gift for someone recovering from surgery.
Recommended Resources
Here you will find products and books I've relied on throughout my journey as a patient of chronic illnesses, especially with heart valve disease.
* As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases made through these links, at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products that I have genuinely found helpful in managing my health.
* I offer recommendations based on my personal experience, not medical advice. Always check with your provider about any concerns or questions before using a product.
AUVON Weekly Pill Organizer
(#CommissionsEarned)
My daily medication companion (mine is in eye-catching green). What sets this organizer apart: removable daily containers that let you start your week on any day, perfect for travel when you don't need the full week. The dual-layer protection prevents accidental openings - no more lost pills in my bag, unlike previous organizers I've used.
BleedStop™ Blood Clotting Powder
(#CommissionsEarned)
My go-to solution for bleeding that's too much for a Band-Aid but not ER-worthy. This powder works incredibly fast when you follow the simple instructions. Every valve patient I know who uses this swears by it. Pro tip: Keep multiple packets in different rooms and in your go-bag - you can only use each packet once, and you'll want it accessible when needed.
Iconikal First Aid Waterproof Adhesive Tape
(#CommissionsEarned)
This thin waterproof tape is essential for keeping adhesive bandages in place on tricky spots like fingers - which is crucial since that's where I test my INR most often. The 1/2" width is perfect for wrapping around smaller areas without excess bulk. I keep rolls in multiple locations so I'm never hunting for it when I need to secure a bandage quickly.
3M Transpore Clear Surgical Tape
(#CommissionsEarned)
This wider waterproof tape is my go-to for larger bandaged areas. What makes it indispensable is how easily it tears off the roll for quick application, yet stays firmly in place once applied. The clear design allows me to monitor the bandaged area without removal. I keep this 1-inch version alongside my narrower tape for complete coverage options.
The Natural Dentist Healthy Gums Mouthwash
(#CommissionsEarned)
This is my nightly mouthwash of choice, specifically designed to help with bleeding gums - a common issue for those of us on blood thinners. The peppermint flavor is pleasant without being overwhelming, and I appreciate that it's alcohol-free so it doesn't cause that burning sensation. I've found it genuinely helps reduce gum bleeding while keeping my mouth feeling fresh.
H2Ocean Arctic Ocean Rinse Mouthwash
(#CommissionsEarned)
This saline mouthwash is my secret weapon for active mouth bleeds. Unlike homemade saltwater (which once caused me MORE bleeding from incorrect concentration), this perfectly balanced formula consistently stops my bleeding quickly. As an added bonus, it's safe to swallow - a convenient feature when dealing with oral bleeding.
Colgate Peroxyl Mouth Sore Rinse
(#CommissionsEarned)
I use this every few days, switching between this and my regular Natural Dentist mouthwash. It helps keep my gums healthy, which is important when you're on blood thinners. I also often use it before going out to eat.
PlastCare Non-Sterile Gauze Pads
(#CommissionsEarned)
I use these gauze pads to find bleeds in my mouth - they're gentle on gums but strong enough not to fall apart. They're also perfect for putting pressure on cuts, sometimes with ice or a bit of hydrogen peroxide. Much better than paper towels or toilet paper for bleeding issues.
Amazon Basics High-Density Foam Roller
(#CommissionsEarned)
I use this foam roller almost daily for my back pain and occasionally for chest discomfort around my sternum (which can happen years after surgery). It's especially good for those of us on blood thinners because it helps with pain but is less likely to cause bruising than harder objects like lacrosse balls.
YOMYM Lacrosse Ball Massager
(#CommissionsEarned)
When I need deeper pressure than my foam roller provides, I use this lacrosse ball for targeted pain relief. It works well for specific spots, including sternal discomfort. I’m more intentional about the lacrosse ball compared to a foam roller, because harder pressure sometimes means a little bruising, which is relevant for folks on blood thinners. It’s also more travel-friendly than a foam roller.
Darn Tough Tactical Boot Cushion Socks
(#CommissionsEarned)
Being on blood thinners makes me feel colder than I used to, and I've found my feet control my overall body temperature. These extra-warm tactical socks make a huge difference in winter - when my feet are warm, my whole body feels warmer. A simple but effective solution for the increased cold sensitivity that comes with blood thinners.
Book Recommendations
These books have been invaluable resources on my journey as a patient and a caregiver. From practical guides to insightful perspectives, each has unique wisdom that I’ve found helpful in navigating health and caregiving challenges.
* As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases made through these links, at no extra cost to you. I only recommend books that I find to be genuinely insightful and relevant.
For Caregivers
Supporting someone with heart disease or chronic illness comes with its own challenges. These resources are specifically selected to help caregivers manage responsibilities, reduce stress, and provide better care.
* Some links may be affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you purchase through them, at no extra cost to you.
The Caring Place Hub
Finding the right resources at the right time is a priority for you as a family caregiver. The Caring Place Hub is an online dashboard and smartphone app with proprietary and curated resources for caregivers, their employers, and their families. We work to empower you as an informed family member and your family – minimizing the time spent, stress, and burdens of caregiving.
OdessaConnect
OdessaConnect turns any TV into a 2-way communication device, as a large screen alternative for people who struggle with technology or smartphones. Families and care teams can send messages and photos, and do live video calls through the largest screen in the home. Designed by geriatric specialists to be safe and simple. Featuring patented simple universal remote control.
