When considering hearing loss, the numbers say everything. As an illustration, globally, over 466 million people have some type of hearing issue. Or that about 10% of the population has tinnitus, a chronic ringing in the ears? But regrettably, hearing aids are used by just 16% of individuals who really need them.
Individuals who need hearing aids may decide not to use them for several reasons. They may choose to suffer silently because they are concerned about a possible stigma associated with aging or are too prideful to wear a hearing aid.
Another obstacle is the price. It can be fairly difficult to get assistance paying for hearing aids and they can be pretty costly.
Hearing aids are, however, the best available option for most 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 impact of buying them. Individuals suffering from hearing loss frequently encounter more challenges making a living and deal with more mental health disorders, like depression, isolation, and anxiety. When both the possible future health issues, and the quality of life challenges are added up, the cost of not getting hearing aids is substantial. As a matter of fact, studies have shown that disregarding hearing loss can raise your healthcare costs by as much as 40%.
And the fact that there are many ways to make hearing aids more affordable makes this even more alarming.
How to Find Affordable Hearing Aids
There are a few options available for people who need hearing aids but cannot afford them. People dealing with hearing loss, who can’t afford hearing aids, may be able to get a pair from the Starkey Hearing Aid Foundation, which donates over 100,000 each year. Individuals who have restricted incomes can get financial assistance or refurbished hearing aids from a few different groups.
Getting Affordable Hearing Aids – The First Move
Before you make contact with any of the services or organizations listed above, you should first get a hearing examination to find out the kind of hearing aid that will work best for you. Your hearing test results will give you a starting point and you can then look at solutions. We can also help you ascertain whether insurance, Veteran’s associations, or other organizations will help with the costs.
Usually, with a little effort, you can uncover a solution that will fit your budget.
Just ask us.