Regarding hearing loss, the numbers tell an interesting story. For instance, did you know that nearly 466 million individuals worldwide have at least some hearing issues? Or that nearly 10% of the population struggles with tinnitus, a chronic ringing in the ears? Possibly, the most troubling statistic is the fact that only 16% of people who need hearing aids have ever used them.
There are numerous reasons why a person who requires a hearing aid might not use one. They may decide to suffer in silence because they are anxious about a potential stigma associated with aging or are too prideful to wear a hearing aid.
Price is frequently another worry. Hearing aids can cost thousands for a set, and getting help to pay for them can be tricky (though laws are changing).
Hearing aids are, however, the best available option for most people who have hearing loss, and there are other services and assistance available to people who could not otherwise afford hearing aids.
Deciding Against Hearing Aids Can Come at a Cost
Sadly, the consequence of not buying a hearing aid when you need one can have a bigger cost than actually buying one. Isolation, anxiety, and depression are more common in people with hearing loss and they also have a higher instance of mental health problems. When these issues are added up, the real cost of not getting hearing aids is considerable, both in the quality of life and in health issues that pop up later. Your healthcare costs can, in fact, 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 alarming.
Finding Affordable Hearing Aids
There are a few options available for people who need hearing aids but can’t afford them. Individuals dealing with 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. Other groups and organizations offer financial help and refurbished hearing aids at a discounted price to people with restricted incomes.
What’s My First Move in Finding Affordable Hearing Aids?
Obtaining a hearing test to figure 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 qualified for coverage or not, there are frequently less expensive options.
Just ask us.
