When it comes to hearing loss, the numbers say everything. For instance, did you realize that almost 466 million individuals around the world have at least some hearing problems? Or that about 10% of the population suffers from tinnitus, a chronic ringing in the ears? But unfortunately, hearing aids are used by just 16% of people who really need them.
There are several reasons why somebody who requires a hearing aid might not use one. Often, pride and the perceived stigma of aging causes them to suffer in silence.
Another apprehension is the price. Hearing aids can cost thousands for a pair, and getting help to pay for them can be tricky (though laws are changing).
Hearing aids are, however, the best available option for the majority of individuals who have hearing loss, and there are other services and assistance available to people who couldn’t otherwise afford hearing aids.
Deciding Against Hearing Aids Can be Costly
Regrettably, the real cost of not using a hearing aid can be even worse than the financial consequence of buying them. People who have hearing loss frequently confront more difficulties earning a living and deal with more mental health conditions, like depression, isolation, and anxiety. When both the potential future health issues, and the quality of life challenges are added up, the cost of not getting hearing aids is substantial. As a matter of fact, research has shown that disregarding hearing loss can increase your healthcare costs by up to 40%.
What makes that figure even more alarming is that there are lots of ways to make hearing aids affordable.
Finding Affordable Hearing Aids
If you need hearing aids but can’t afford them, there are a number of ways you can still get them. The Starkey Hearing Foundation donates more than 100,000 hearing aids each year to individuals that have hearing loss who otherwise could not afford treatments. People who have restricted incomes can get financial assistance or refurbished hearing aids from a few different groups.
Getting Affordable Hearing Aids – The First Move
Getting a hearing test to figure out what level and type of hearing loss you have is step one. Once you get your results, you’ll be able to explore options for how you will begin 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 eligible for coverage or not, there are frequently less costly solutions.
Let us help.