When considering hearing loss, the numbers tell an interesting story. For instance, did you realize that almost 466 million people around the world have at least some hearing issues? Or that almost 10% of the population has tinnitus, a chronic ringing in the ears? Possibly, the most troubling statistic is the fact that only 16% of individuals who need hearing aids have ever used them.
Individuals who require hearing aids might choose not to use them for numerous reasons. Often, pride and the perceived stigma of aging causes them to suffer silently.
Cost is frequently another worry. It can be relatively challenging to get assistance paying for hearing aids and they can be pretty costly.
The truth is, however, that hearing aids are the best solution available to most individuals who have hearing loss, and there are other services and assistance available to those who could not normally afford hearing aids.
Deciding Against Hearing Aids Can be Costly
Sadly, the consequence of not buying a hearing aid when you need one can have a bigger cost than actually buying one. Individuals who have hearing loss often confront more challenges earning a living and deal with more mental health conditions, such as depression, solitude, and anxiety. When these issues are added up, the true cost of not getting hearing aids is substantial, both in the quality of life and in health concerns that appear later. In fact, research has shown that neglecting hearing loss can increase your healthcare costs by as much as 40%.
And the fact that there are several 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 several ways you can still get them. The Starkey Hearing Foundation donates over 100,000 hearing aids each year to people dealing with hearing loss who otherwise could not afford treatments. People who have limited incomes can get financial assistance or refurbished hearing aids from several groups.
Finding Affordable Hearing Aids – The First Move
Obtaining a hearing test to figure out what level and kind of hearing loss you have is your first step. Your hearing test results will give you a starting point and you can then look at options. Whether insurance, Veteran’s associations, or other strategies 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.