When considering hearing loss, the numbers say everything. For example, did you realize that almost 466 million individuals worldwide have at least some hearing issues? Or that almost 10% of the population suffers from tinnitus, a chronic ringing in the ears? But regrettably, hearing aids are used by only 16% of people who really need them.
There are numerous reasons why somebody who needs a hearing aid might not use one. They may decide to suffer silently because they are anxious about a possible stigma associated with aging or are too prideful to wear a hearing aid.
Another concern is the price. Hearing aids can cost thousands for a pair, and getting help to pay for them can be difficult (though laws are changing).
The truth is, however, that hearing aids are the best option available to most people who have hearing loss, and there are other services and assistance available to those who couldn’t normally afford hearing aids.
The True Cost of Not Wearing Hearing Aids
Sadly, the consequence of not purchasing a hearing aid when you need one can be even more costly than actually buying one. People who have hearing loss often confront more challenges making a living and deal with more mental health conditions, like depression, solitude, and anxiety. When these problems are added up, the true cost of not getting hearing aids is significant, both in the quality of life and in health concerns that pop up later. Your healthcare costs can, in fact, increase by as much as 40% by dismissing hearing loss according to research.
What makes that statistic even more shocking is that there are lots of ways to make hearing aids affordable.
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. Individuals 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 each year. Other groups and organizations offer financial assistance and refurbished hearing aids at a discounted price to individuals with restricted incomes.
What’s My First Move in Getting Affordable Hearing Aids?
Getting a hearing test to find out what level and type of hearing loss you have is step one. Once you obtain your results, you’ll be able to explore options for how you will begin hearing better again. We can also help you figure out whether insurance, Veteran’s associations, or other affiliations will help with the expenses.
Usually, with a little effort, you can uncover an option that will fit your budget.
Just ask us.