Regarding hearing loss, the numbers tell an interesting story. For example, did you realize that almost 466 million individuals around the world have at least some hearing issues? Or that about 10% of the population suffers from tinnitus, a chronic ringing in the ears? But regrettably, hearing aids are used by just 16% of people who actually need them.
There are numerous reasons why somebody who requires a hearing aid might not use one. Frequently, pride and the perceived stigma of old age causes them to suffer in silence.
Another apprehension is the cost. Hearing aids can cost thousands for a pair, and getting assistance to pay for them can be challenging (though laws are changing).
Hearing aids are, however, the best available choice for the majority of people who have hearing loss, and for people who can’t afford hearing aids, there are other types of help 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. Isolation, anxiety, and depression are more common in individuals with hearing loss and they also have a higher rate of mental health problems. When these problems are added up, the true cost of not getting hearing aids is considerable, 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.
And the fact that there are many ways to make hearing aids more affordable makes this even more alarming.
How to Get Affordable Hearing Aids
If you need hearing aids but can’t afford them, there are several ways you can still get them. People dealing with 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 reduced price to people with limited incomes.
Getting 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. Once you get your results, you’ll be able to explore options for how you will start hearing better again. Whether insurance, Veteran’s associations, or other avenues can help is also something we can help with.
In most cases, with a little effort, you can uncover an option that will fit your budget.
Just ask us.