When it comes to hearing loss, the numbers tell an interesting story. As an example, globally, over 466 million people suffer from some kind of hearing issue. Or that nearly 10% of the population suffers from 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.
There are numerous reasons why a person who requires a hearing aid might not use one. Frequently, pride and the perceived stigma of old age causes them to suffer in silence.
Cost is often another concern. It can be somewhat difficult to get help paying for hearing aids and they can be pretty expensive.
The fact remains, however, that hearing aids are the best solution available to most individuals who have hearing loss, and for people who can’t afford hearing aids, there are other kinds of help available.
Deciding Against Hearing Aids Can be Costly
Unfortunately, the true cost of not using a hearing aid can be even worse than the financial impact of buying them. Isolation, anxiety, and depression are more common in individuals 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 substantial. Your healthcare costs can, in reality, increase by up to 40% by dismissing hearing loss according to research.
What makes that figure 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. People suffering from hearing loss, who can’t afford hearing aids, might be able to get a pair from the Starkey Hearing Aid Foundation, which donates over 100,000 every year. People who have restricted incomes can get financial help or refurbished hearing aids from several groups.
Finding Affordable Hearing Aids – The First Step
Before you get hold of any of the services or institutions listed above, you should first get a hearing examination to determine the kind of hearing aid that is the best choice for you. Your hearing test results will give you a starting point and you can then look at solutions. Whether insurance, Veteran’s associations, or other avenues can help is also something we can help with.
Whether you are qualified for coverage or not, there are frequently less pricey options.
Let us help.
