When considering hearing loss, the numbers tell an interesting story. As an example, globally, over 466 million people experience some type of hearing problem. Or that almost 10% of the population suffers from tinnitus, a chronic ringing in the ears? Perhaps the most disturbing statistic is the fact that only 16% of people who require hearing aids have ever used them.
Individuals who need hearing aids might choose not to use them for several reasons. Frequently, pride and the perceived stigma of aging causes them to suffer silently.
Price is frequently another worry. Hearing aids can cost thousands for a set, and getting assistance to pay for them can be difficult (though laws are changing).
Hearing aids are, however, the best available choice for most people who have hearing loss, and there are other services and assistance available to people who couldn’t otherwise afford hearing aids.
Deciding Against Hearing Aids Can be Costly
Unfortunately, the true cost of not wearing a hearing aid can be even more than the financial impact of purchasing them. Solitude, anxiety, and depression are more common in people with hearing loss and they also have a higher rate 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 concerns that turn up later. Your healthcare costs can, in reality, increase by as much as 40% by dismissing hearing loss according to research.
What makes that statistic even more alarming is that there are numerous ways to make hearing aids affordable.
Finding Affordable Hearing Aids
There are several options available for people who need hearing aids but cannot afford them. The Starkey Hearing Foundation donates over 100,000 hearing aids each year to people that have hearing loss who otherwise could not afford treatments. People who have restricted incomes can get financial help or refurbished hearing aids from a few different groups.
What is My First Step in Finding Affordable Hearing Aids?
Before you get hold of any of the services or organizations listed above, you should first get a hearing test to identify the type of hearing aid that will work best for you. Your hearing test results will point you in the right direction and you can then look at options. We can also help you determine whether insurance, Veteran’s associations, or other affiliations will help with the expenses.
Whether you are qualified for coverage or not, there are frequently less pricey solutions.
Just ask us.