When considering hearing loss, the numbers tell an interesting story. As an illustration, around the world, over 466 million people experience some kind of hearing issue. Or that almost 10% of the population struggles with tinnitus, a chronic ringing in the ears? But regrettably, hearing aids are used by just 16% of individuals who actually need them.
There are numerous reasons why a person who requires a hearing aid may not use one. Often, pride and the perceived stigma of old age causes them to suffer silently.
Another worry is the price. Hearing aids can cost thousands for a set, and getting help to pay for them can be difficult (though laws are changing).
Hearing aids are, however, the best available option for the majority of individuals who have loss of hearing, and for individuals who can’t afford hearing aids, there are other types of support available.
The True Cost of Not Using Hearing Aids
Regrettably, the true cost of not using a hearing aid can be even more than the financial impact of purchasing them. People who have hearing loss frequently confront more challenges making a living and deal with more mental health disorders, like depression, isolation, and anxiety. When these problems are added up, the real cost of not getting hearing aids is significant, both in the quality of life and in health issues that pop up later. In fact, studies have shown that neglecting hearing loss can raise your healthcare costs by as much as 40%.
What makes that figure even more shocking is that there are numerous ways to make hearing aids affordable.
Finding Affordable Hearing Aids
There are a few options available for those who need hearing aids but cannot afford them. People that have 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 help and refurbished hearing aids at a reduced price to people with restricted incomes.
What’s My First Step in Finding Affordable Hearing Aids?
Getting a hearing test to find 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. We can also help you ascertain whether insurance, Veteran’s associations, or other affiliations will help with the expenses.
In most cases, with a little effort, you can uncover a solution that will fit your budget.
Just ask us.