When it comes to hearing loss, the numbers say everything. For example, did you realize that almost 466 million people around the world have at least some hearing issues? Or that nearly 10% of the population struggles with tinnitus, a chronic ringing in the ears? Perhaps the most troubling statistic is the fact that only 16% of people who need hearing aids have ever used them.
There are several reasons why a person who requires a hearing aid may not use one. Often, pride and the perceived stigma of growing older causes them to suffer silently.
Another apprehension is the cost. It can be fairly difficult to get assistance paying for hearing aids and they can be rather expensive.
The fact remains, however, that hearing aids are the best solution available to most individuals who suffer from hearing loss, and for people who can’t afford hearing aids, there are other kinds of help available.
The True Cost of Not Wearing Hearing Aids
Unfortunately, the real cost of not using a hearing aid can be even worse than the financial impact of purchasing them. People who have hearing loss frequently face more challenges making a living and cope with more mental health conditions, like depression, solitude, and anxiety. 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 reality, increase by as much as 40% by neglecting hearing loss according to research.
And the fact that there are several ways to make hearing aids more affordable makes this even more alarming.
How to Find Affordable Hearing Aids
If you need hearing aids but can’t afford them, there are a number of ways you can still get them. Individuals suffering from hearing loss, who can’t afford hearing aids, may be able to get a pair from the Starkey Hearing Aid Foundation, which donates more than 100,000 every year. 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 Move
Obtaining a hearing test to figure out what level and type of hearing loss you have is step one. Your hearing test results will point you in the right direction 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 eligible for coverage or not, there are often less expensive solutions.
Let us help.