When considering hearing loss, the numbers say everything. As an example, around the world, over 466 million individuals have some type of hearing problem. 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 people who actually need them.
There are several reasons why someone who needs a hearing aid may not use one. Frequently, pride and the perceived stigma of growing older causes them to suffer silently.
Another worry is the price. It can be somewhat difficult to get assistance paying for hearing aids and they can be rather expensive.
Hearing aids are, however, the best available choice for the majority of people who have loss of hearing, and there are other services and assistance available to people who couldn’t normally 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 impact of purchasing them. Isolation, anxiety, and depression are more common in people with hearing loss and they also have a higher instance of mental health problems. When both the potential 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 fact, increase by as much as 40% by ignoring hearing loss according to research.
What makes that figure even more alarming is that there are numerous ways to make hearing aids affordable.
Getting 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 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 over 100,000 each year. People who have limited incomes can get financial help or refurbished hearing aids from a few different groups.
What is My First Move in Finding Affordable Hearing Aids?
Obtaining a hearing test to figure out what level and type of hearing loss you have is your first step. Once you get your results, you’ll be able to look into options for how you will begin hearing better again. Whether insurance, Veteran’s associations, or other avenues can help is also something we can help with.
Usually, with a little effort, you can find a solution that will fit your budget.
Let us help.