Regarding hearing loss, the numbers say everything. As an illustration, globally, over 466 million people have some kind of hearing issue. Or that nearly 10% of the population struggles with tinnitus, a chronic ringing in the ears? Possibly, the most disturbing statistic is the fact that only 16% of individuals who require hearing aids have ever used them.
People who require hearing aids might choose not to use them for several reasons. Often, pride and the perceived stigma of aging causes them to suffer in silence.
Another obstacle is the cost. Hearing aids can cost thousands for a set, and getting help to pay for them can be tricky (though laws are changing).
The fact remains, however, that hearing aids are the best choice available to most individuals who suffer from hearing loss, and there are other services and assistance available to those who couldn’t normally afford hearing aids.
Deciding Against Hearing Aids Can Come at a Cost
Sadly, the consequence of not purchasing a hearing aid when you need one can be even more costly than actually buying one. Isolation, anxiety, and depression are more common in people with hearing loss and they also have a higher instance of mental health problems. When both the possible future health issues, and the quality of life challenges are added up, the cost of not getting hearing aids is significant. 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 Find Affordable Hearing Aids
There are several options available for those who need hearing aids but cannot afford them. The Starkey Hearing Foundation donates more than 100,000 hearing aids every year to people suffering from hearing loss who otherwise could not afford treatments. Other groups and organizations offer financial assistance and refurbished hearing aids at a discounted price to individuals with restricted incomes.
Finding Affordable Hearing Aids – The First Step
Before you make contact with any of the services or organizations listed above, you should first get a hearing exam to find out the kind of hearing aid that is the best choice for you. Once you get your results, you’ll be able to look into 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.
Whether you are eligible for coverage or not, there are frequently less pricey options.
Just ask us.