Hi again, and welcome.

This time of year can feel a little rushed. There's always something else to plan, buy, or remember. I like to slow down for a moment and look at what might make life a little easier in the weeks ahead. If you have an FSA account, this is a good time to use what's left before the year resets. I put together a simple guide that might help.

Most Flexible Spending Accounts follow a "use it or lose it" rule. Some plans offer a small rollover or a short grace period into early 2025, but many require you to spend your balance by December 31. Check your plan's specific rules. FSAs cover a wide range of medical expenses, including visits, prescriptions, and certain over-the-counter items. A few services need a simple letter of medical necessity (LMN) from a licensed provider. I'll note that where it matters.

Here are five places to start.

FSA funds can be used for mental health counseling, both in person and through telehealth. December can be a hard month for many people, and this might be the right time to reach out. Most therapists show insurance and FSA acceptance on their profiles, and many offer virtual sessions. Two trusted directories where you can find local clinicians include Psychology Today and TherapyDen. You can filter by location, specialty, and availability. You can also check your insurance provider's website for specific in-network options.

👉 Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists
👉 TherapyDen: https://www.therapyden.com

No LMN is required for therapy.

Cold weather can make old injuries feel worse. Physical therapy is fully FSA-eligible and can help with back, neck, and shoulder pain. Two trusted local practices include:

These clinics focus on movement, strength, and everyday function.

No LMN is required for physical therapy.

Medical massage can be FSA-eligible when it supports a specific condition such as back pain, muscle tension, headaches, or old injuries. Chiropractic care is also covered and does not need extra paperwork. Massage usually requires a little more documentation, so if you plan to use your FSA for it, you can ask your provider for a brief letter of medical necessity explaining why it helps.

LMN needed for massage. No LMN needed for chiropractic care.

Glasses, readers, contact lenses, and prescription sunglasses all qualify under most FSA plans. If you've been putting off an eye exam or you need a new pair, a few local optical shops include:

This is one of the simplest ways to use FSA funds before the year resets.

No LMN is required for optical products.

Some wellness devices can be eligible with a letter of medical necessity. This includes items used for pain, mobility, sleep, or seasonal mood. Examples include:

Many people buy these online or at places like Costco. If you're unsure whether something qualifies, it's worth checking your plan's list.

These items qualify under most FSA plans and are easy to forget:

Sometimes the simplest things make the biggest difference.

👉 IRS list of eligible medical expenses: https://www.irs.gov/publications/p502
👉 FSA Store eligibility list: https://fsastore.com/fsa-eligibility-list
👉 Your plan's eligibility page (usually on your insurer's website)

ShopRite locations across Westchester have registered dietitians offering free 15-minute consultations - no appointment needed. Each store has its own schedule.
👉 https://dietitians.shoprite.com

Westchester Parks’ free Mall Walking Club meets Tuesdays and Fridays from 8-10 a.m. at The Westchester in White Plains. Walk at your own pace indoors or join the welcoming group that meets each week. Check in at the Parks table near the horse fountain on retail level 2. Free parking for registered walkers.
👉 https://parks.westchestergov.com/mall-walking

The Katz Institute for Women's Health has December workshops covering mental health, preventive care, and simple wellness habits. Both virtual and in-person options are available.
👉 https://www.northwell.edu/katz-institute-for-womens-health/events

Westchester County's 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 for mental health support - free and confidential. Call or text 988.
👉 More info

December usually means more restaurant meals than usual - parties, gatherings, nights when cooking just isn't happening. If you're trying to save a little money or just want more control over what you're eating during the in-between times, cooking at home more often can help. Markets like Stew Leonard's in Yonkers and DeCicco & Sons (multiple Westchester locations) make it easier - both have fresh produce, prepared ingredients, and ready-to-cook options that cut down on the work.

Sometimes the simplest December strategy is just keeping it simple at home when you can.

👉 Stew Leonard's: https://www.stewleonards.com
👉 DeCicco & Sons: https://www.deciccos.com

Heard about a new wellness event, class, or favorite place?
Reply or Share a Local Find - I’d love to include it in a future issue.

For detailed submissions:

💚 Thanks for reading Westchester Local Wellness. If you enjoyed this issue, please forward it to a neighbor who’d love discovering new local wellness spots.

Till next time,
Margaret