Hey everyone, Tony Leonardi, your Certified Financial Planner® from Newtown, Connecticut, back with another episode of A Smarter Way to Retire—because there really IS a Smarter Way to Retire.
Today we continue exploring the powerful health-wealth connection: how proactive health management can protect your finances, extend your healthy lifespan, improve your retirement years, and secure your legacy.
Joining me is Dr. Lori Aleks, Au.D., an audiologist with Best Life Hearing Center in Connecticut (locations in Wallingford, Cheshire, and Ansonia – contact: www.bestlifehearingcenter.com or call (203) 741-9943 / (203) 272-4512 / (203) 735-4327). Lori earned her Bachelor and Master of Arts in Communicative Disorders from California State University, Long Beach, followed by her Doctorate of Audiology from the University of Florida in 2003. She practiced in California for many years before moving to Connecticut and is a fellow of the American Academy of Audiology.
Lori specializes in diagnosing and treating hearing loss with a passion for early intervention. And yes—she’s also my better half!
Why Hearing Health Matters for Retirement Planning
Hearing loss is often overlooked until it’s severe, but it can quietly erode retirement quality of life, mental health, and even your savings.
Common Causes of Hearing Loss in Adults
- Presbycusis (age-related)
- Noise exposure (concerts, power tools, lawnmowers)
- Hereditary factors
Lori recommends starting a baseline hearing test around age 50 (or earlier with family history) and repeating every 2–5 years.
The Hidden Costs of Untreated Hearing Loss
- Cognitive decline & dementia risk
- Social isolation & depression
- Reduced family communication (grandkids, traditions)
One study after another shows untreated hearing loss accelerates cognitive decline. When people withdraw from conversations, the brain gets less stimulation—and that’s expensive in every sense.
Prevention & Practical Steps
- Wear ear protection (power tools, concerts)
- Use noise-canceling earbuds correctly
- Get tested early—most insurances cover one hearing test per year (Medicare included)
A hearing test takes 20–45 minutes and often costs less than $20 out of pocket.
Hearing Aids: Not Just Amplifiers
Modern hearing aids are miniature computers:
- Bluetooth streaming
- Tinnitus maskers
- App control
- Fine-tuned for your lifestyle
They’re programmable, rechargeable, and come in different technology levels. Service plans vary—some include everything, others are pay-as-you-go.
Financial Tools: HSAs & FSAs
Lori sees many clients use Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) to cover hearing aids tax-free. HSAs are triple tax-advantaged and roll over indefinitely—perfect for funding future hearing care without touching retirement savings.
Lori’s One Piece of Advice
“Be proactive, not reactive. Get your hearing tested early. It can prevent bigger, costlier problems later—both health and financial.”
Your Action Plan
- Schedule a baseline hearing test (age 50+)
- Use HSAs/FSAs for hearing care
- Include hearing health in your retirement model
Contact Dr. Lori Aleks for a consultation at Best Life Hearing Center: www.bestlifehearingcenter.com or call (203) 741-9943 (Wallingford), (203) 272-4512 (Cheshire), or (203) 735-4327 (Ansonia).
Because there IS a Smarter Way to Retire.
Take my free 2-minute retirement readiness quiz + get my book instantly:
https://www.leonardifamilywealthcare.com/quiz
Book a complimentary 15-minute review:
https://calendly.com/anthony-leonardi-leonardifwc/15-minute-check-in-quick-questions-quick-answers