When considering hearing loss, the numbers say everything. For instance, did you realize that nearly 466 million individuals worldwide have at least some hearing problems? Or that about 10% of the population has tinnitus, a chronic ringing in the ears? Possibly, the most troubling statistic is the fact that only 16% of individuals who need hearing aids have ever used them.
People who need hearing aids may choose not to use them for several reasons. Often, pride and the perceived stigma of old age causes them to suffer silently.
Another obstacle is the price. Hearing aids can cost thousands for a pair, and getting assistance to pay for them can be tricky (though laws are changing).
The fact remains, however, that hearing aids are the best choice available to most individuals who suffer from hearing loss, and there are other services and assistance available to those who couldn’t otherwise afford hearing aids.
Deciding Against Hearing Aids Can be Costly
Sadly, the impact of not purchasing a hearing aid when you need one can be even more costly than actually buying one. Isolation, anxiety, and depression are more prevalent in people with hearing loss and they also have a higher instance of mental health problems. When both the possible future health problems, and the quality of life challenges are added up, the cost of not getting hearing aids is significant. Your healthcare costs can, in reality, increase by as much as 40% by neglecting hearing loss according to research.
And the fact that there are several ways to make hearing aids more affordable makes this even more surprising.
Getting Affordable Hearing Aids
There are a few options available for people who need hearing aids but cannot afford them. People dealing with hearing loss, who can’t afford hearing aids, might be able to get a pair from the Starkey Hearing Aid Foundation, which donates over 100,000 each year. Other groups and organizations provide financial assistance and refurbished hearing aids at a discounted price to people with restricted incomes.
What’s My First Step in Getting Affordable Hearing Aids?
Before you make contact with any of the services or organizations listed above, you should first get a hearing test to find out the kind of hearing aid that will work best for you. Once you get your results, you’ll be able to explore options for how you will start hearing better again. We can also help you figure out whether insurance, Veteran’s associations, or other affiliations will help with the expenses.
Whether you are qualified for coverage or not, there are often less pricey options.
Let us help.