Regarding hearing loss, the numbers tell an interesting story. As an illustration, around the world, over 466 million people have some kind of hearing issue. Or that almost 10% of the population struggles with tinnitus, a chronic ringing in the ears? Perhaps the most disturbing statistic is the fact that only 16% of individuals who need hearing aids have ever used them.
People who need hearing aids might decide not to use them for several reasons. They might decide to suffer in silence because they are anxious about a possible stigma linked to aging or are too prideful to wear a hearing aid.
Price is frequently another concern. Hearing aids can cost thousands for a pair, and getting help to pay for them can be tricky (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.
The True Cost of Not Wearing Hearing Aids
Unfortunately, the real cost of not wearing a hearing aid can be even more than the financial consequence of buying them. Individuals suffering from hearing loss commonly face more challenges making a living and cope with more mental health disorders, like depression, solitude, and anxiety. When these problems are added up, the real cost of not getting hearing aids is substantial, both in the quality of life and in health issues 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 surprising is that there are numerous ways to make hearing aids affordable.
How to Get Affordable Hearing Aids
If you need hearing aids but can’t afford them, there are a few ways you can still get 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 every year. Other groups and organizations provide financial assistance and refurbished hearing aids at a reduced price to people with limited incomes.
Finding Affordable Hearing Aids – The First Move
Obtaining a hearing test to find out what level and kind of hearing loss you have is your first step. Once you get your results, you’ll be able to look into options for how you will start hearing better again. We can also help you determine whether insurance, Veteran’s associations, or other organizations will help with the expenses.
Whether you are eligible for coverage or not, there are often less pricey options.
Just ask us.
