When it comes to hearing loss, the numbers tell an interesting story. As an example, globally, over 466 million individuals suffer from some type of hearing problem. Or that about 10% of the population has tinnitus, a chronic ringing in the ears? But sadly, hearing aids are used by just 16% of people who really need them.
People who require hearing aids may decide not to use them for numerous reasons. They may decide to suffer silently because they are worried about a potential stigma associated with aging or are too prideful to wear a hearing aid.
Price is often another concern. It can be fairly difficult to get help paying for hearing aids and they can be rather expensive.
The fact remains, however, that hearing aids are the best option available to most individuals who suffer from hearing loss, and for individuals who can’t afford hearing aids, there are other types of help available.
Deciding Against Hearing Aids Can be Costly
Unfortunately, the real cost of not wearing a hearing aid can be even more than the financial impact of buying them. Individuals who have hearing loss frequently confront more challenges earning a living and cope with more mental health disorders, including depression, isolation, and anxiety. 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 issues that pop up later. In fact, research has shown that ignoring hearing loss can raise your healthcare costs by as much as 40%.
What makes that figure even more surprising is that there are lots of ways to make hearing aids affordable.
Finding Affordable Hearing Aids
There are several options available for people who need hearing aids but can’t afford them. The Starkey Hearing Foundation donates more than 100,000 hearing aids every year to individuals suffering from hearing loss who otherwise could not afford treatments. Individuals who have restricted incomes can get financial assistance or refurbished hearing aids from a few different groups.
What is My First Move in Finding Affordable Hearing Aids?
Obtaining a hearing aid discovery test to figure out what level and type of hearing loss you have is your first step. Your hearing aid discovery test results will point you in the right direction and you can then look at solutions. We can also help you determine whether insurance, Veteran’s associations, or other organizations will help with the costs.
Whether you are qualified for coverage or not, there are often less pricey solutions.
Just ask us.