About ThistleOrbit
ThistleOrbit is a free, independent website that helps older Americans and the people who care for them understand everyday health numbers and make the most of their check-ups.
Why we built this site
Good health information exists, but it is spread across many agency websites and often written for professionals. We bring the most useful parts together in large, readable text: simple tools that explain a blood pressure reading or a fall-risk score, and guides that say what the numbers mean and what to ask your doctor next.
Who runs ThistleOrbit
We are not doctors, nurses or pharmacists, and we don’t offer medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Our role is to explain published guidance clearly and point you to the right questions for your own health care team.
Where our information comes from
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) — physical activity, falls (STEADI), sleep, stroke and heart attack signs.
- National Institutes of Health — the National Institute on Aging and the Office of Dietary Supplements.
- The American Heart Association and the 2025 ACC/AHA high blood pressure guideline.
- Medicare.gov and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services — preventive services and Part D costs.
Read the details in our editorial policy and medical disclaimer.
Independence
ThistleOrbit is not affiliated with, endorsed by or connected to Medicare, CMS, the CDC, the NIH, the American Heart Association or any government agency. We do not sell supplements, devices or insurance. The site is supported by advertising, which never influences what we write.
Get in touch
Found an error or have an idea for a tool? Email [email protected] or use our contact form.