When considering hearing loss, the numbers say everything. As an illustration, globally, over 466 million individuals suffer from some kind of hearing issue. Or that almost 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.
People who need hearing aids may choose not to use them for numerous reasons. Often, pride and the perceived stigma of growing older causes them to suffer silently.
Another worry is the price. Hearing aids can cost thousands for a pair, and getting help to pay for them can be tricky (though laws are changing).
The truth is, however, that hearing aids are the best option available to most people who suffer from hearing loss, and for individuals who can’t afford hearing aids, there are other kinds of help available.
The True Cost of Not Using Hearing Aids
Regrettably, the true cost of not wearing a hearing aid can be even more than the financial consequence of buying them. People who have hearing loss often encounter more challenges earning a living and deal with more mental health conditions, like depression, solitude, and anxiety. When these issues are added up, the real cost of not getting hearing aids is substantial, both in the quality of life and in health concerns that appear later. Your healthcare costs can, in reality, increase by as much as 40% by neglecting hearing loss according to research.
What makes that figure even more shocking is that there are lots of ways to make hearing aids affordable.
Finding Affordable Hearing Aids
If you need hearing aids but can’t afford them, there are a few ways you can still get them. People 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 over 100,000 every year. Other groups and organizations offer financial assistance and refurbished hearing aids at a discounted price to people with limited incomes.
What’s My First Move in Getting Affordable Hearing Aids?
Before you get hold of any of the services or institutions listed above, you should first get a hearing exam to identify the type of hearing aid that is the best choice for you. Once you obtain your results, you’ll be able to look into options for how you will begin hearing better again. We can also help you determine whether insurance, Veteran’s associations, or other affiliations will help with the costs.
Whether you are eligible for coverage or not, there are often less costly options.
Let us help.