When considering hearing loss, the numbers say everything. As an illustration, globally, over 466 million individuals have some type of hearing issue. Or that nearly 10% of the population suffers from tinnitus, a chronic ringing in the ears? Possibly, the most disturbing statistic is the fact that only 16% of people who need hearing aids have ever used them.
There are numerous reasons why someone who needs a hearing aid may not use one. They may decide to suffer in silence because they are worried about a possible stigma linked to aging or are too full of pride to use a hearing aid.
Price is frequently another concern. Hearing aids can cost thousands for a set, and getting assistance to pay for them can be tricky (though laws are changing).
The fact remains, however, that hearing aids are the best solution available to most people who have hearing loss, and for individuals who can’t afford hearing aids, there are other kinds of assistance available.
Deciding Against Hearing Aids Can be Costly
Unfortunately, the true cost of not using a hearing aid can be even worse than the financial consequence of purchasing them. Solitude, anxiety, and depression are more common in people with hearing loss and they also have a higher rate of mental health issues. When both the potential future health issues, and the quality of life challenges are added up, the cost of not getting hearing aids is considerable. 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 a number of ways to make hearing aids more affordable makes this even more surprising.
How to Find Affordable Hearing Aids
If you need hearing aids but can’t afford them, there are a few ways you can still get them. The Starkey Hearing Foundation gives over 100,000 hearing aids every year to people dealing with hearing loss who otherwise could not afford treatments. Individuals who have limited incomes can get financial assistance or refurbished hearing aids from several groups.
What is My First Step in Getting Affordable Hearing Aids?
Getting a hearing test to find out what level and kind of hearing loss you have is step one. Your hearing test results will point you in the right direction and you can then look at options. Whether insurance, Veteran’s associations, or other avenues can help is also something we can help with.
Whether you are eligible for coverage or not, there are frequently less pricey solutions.
Just ask us.
