Regarding hearing loss, the numbers tell an interesting story. For instance, did you realize that almost 466 million people around the world have at least some hearing issues? Or that nearly 10% of the population suffers from 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.
There are several reasons why a person who requires a hearing aid may not use one. They might decide to suffer silently because they are anxious about a possible stigma associated with aging or are too prideful to use a hearing aid.
Another apprehension is the cost. It can be somewhat challenging to get assistance paying for hearing aids and they can be pretty expensive.
Hearing aids are, however, the best available option for the majority of individuals who have loss of hearing, and there are other services and assistance available to those who could not normally afford hearing aids.
Deciding Against Hearing Aids Can be Costly
Unfortunately, the real cost of not wearing a hearing aid can be even worse than the financial consequence of purchasing them. Solitude, anxiety, and depression are more common in people with hearing loss and they also have a higher instance of mental health conditions. When both the possible future health problems, and the quality of life challenges are added up, the cost of not getting hearing aids is considerable. Your healthcare costs can, in fact, increase by up to 40% by neglecting hearing loss according to research.
What makes that statistic even more surprising is that there are numerous ways to make hearing aids affordable.
Getting Affordable Hearing Aids
If you need hearing aids but can’t afford them, there are a number of ways you can still get them. The Starkey Hearing Foundation donates over 100,000 hearing aids every year to people dealing with 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 limited incomes.
What’s My First Move in Finding Affordable Hearing Aids?
Before you get hold of 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. Once you obtain your results, you’ll be able to look into 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.
Whether you are eligible for coverage or not, there are frequently less costly options.
Let us help.