Regarding hearing loss, the numbers tell an interesting story. For example, did you realize that almost 466 million people worldwide have at least some hearing problems? Or that nearly 10% of the population suffers from tinnitus, a chronic ringing in the ears? Perhaps the most troubling statistic is the fact that only 16% of people who require hearing aids have ever used them.
There are several reasons why somebody who requires a hearing aid might not use one. They may decide to suffer in silence because they are worried about a potential stigma associated with aging or are too full of pride to wear a hearing aid.
Price is often another worry. Hearing aids can cost thousands for a pair, and getting assistance to pay for them can be tricky (though laws are changing).
Hearing aids are, however, the best available choice for most people who have hearing loss, and for people who can’t afford hearing aids, there are other kinds of assistance available.
Deciding Against Hearing Aids Can Come at a Cost
Regrettably, the real cost of not using a hearing aid can be even more than the financial consequence of purchasing them. Solitude, anxiety, and depression are more widespread in individuals with hearing loss and they also have a higher instance of mental health problems. When both the possible future health issues, and the quality of life challenges are added up, the cost of not getting hearing aids is significant. Your healthcare costs can, in fact, increase by up to 40% by ignoring hearing loss according to research.
What makes that figure even more alarming is that there are many 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. Individuals that have hearing loss, who can’t afford hearing aids, might be able to get a pair from the Starkey Hearing Aid Foundation, which donates more than 100,000 each year. Individuals who have restricted incomes can get financial assistance or refurbished hearing aids from a few different groups.
Getting Affordable Hearing Aids – The First Step
Before you get hold of any of the services or institutions listed above, you should first get a hearing examination to find out the kind of hearing aid that is the best choice for you. Your hearing test results will give you a starting point and you can then look at options. We can also help you figure out whether insurance, Veteran’s associations, or other organizations will help with the expenses.
Whether you are eligible for coverage or not, there are frequently less expensive solutions.
Just ask us.