When it comes to hearing loss, the numbers tell an interesting story. For example, did you know that nearly 466 million people around the world have at least some hearing issues? Or that nearly 10% of the population has tinnitus, a chronic ringing in the ears? But regrettably, hearing aids are used by just 16% of individuals who actually need them.
Individuals who require hearing aids may decide not to use them for numerous reasons. They might decide to suffer in silence because they are worried about a possible stigma linked to aging or are too prideful to use a hearing aid.
Another worry is the price. It can be somewhat difficult to get help paying for hearing aids and they can be rather costly.
The fact remains, however, that hearing aids are the best option available to most people who suffer from hearing loss, and for people who can’t afford hearing aids, there are other types of support available.
Deciding Against Hearing Aids Can be Costly
Sadly, the impact of not buying a hearing aid when you need one can have a bigger cost than actually buying one. Solitude, anxiety, and depression are more common in people with hearing loss and they also have a higher rate of mental health problems. When these issues are added up, the real cost of not getting hearing aids is significant, both in the quality of life and in health issues that pop up later. As a matter of fact, research has shown that disregarding hearing loss can increase your healthcare costs by as much as 40%.
And the fact that there are many 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. Individuals suffering from hearing loss, who can’t afford hearing aids, may be able to get a pair from the Starkey Hearing Aid Foundation, which donates more than 100,000 each year. Other groups and organizations provide financial help and refurbished hearing aids at a discounted price to people with limited incomes.
Getting Affordable Hearing Aids – The First Move
Obtaining a hearing test to find 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 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 eligible for coverage or not, there are often less expensive options.
Just ask us.
