Regarding hearing loss, the numbers tell an interesting story. For instance, did you know that nearly 466 million individuals around the world have at least some hearing issues? Or that almost 10% of the population suffers from tinnitus, a chronic ringing in the ears? Possibly, the most troubling statistic is the fact that only 16% of individuals who require hearing aids have ever used them.
There are numerous reasons why somebody who needs a hearing aid may not use one. They may choose to suffer silently because they are anxious about a possible stigma linked to aging or are too full of pride to use a hearing aid.
Price is frequently another concern. Hearing aids can cost thousands for a pair, and getting assistance to pay for them can be tricky (though laws are changing).
Hearing aids are, however, the best available option for the majority of people who have loss of hearing, and for people who can’t afford hearing aids, there are other types of support available.
The Real Cost of Not Using Hearing Aids
Sadly, the consequence of not buying a hearing aid when you need one can have a bigger cost than actually buying one. Isolation, anxiety, and depression are more common in individuals with hearing loss and they also have a higher rate of mental health conditions. When these problems are added up, the true cost of not getting hearing aids is substantial, both in the quality of life and in health concerns that appear later. Your healthcare costs can, in fact, increase by as much as 40% by dismissing hearing loss according to research.
And the fact that there are many ways to make hearing aids more affordable makes this even more alarming.
Getting Affordable Hearing Aids
There are several options available for those who need hearing aids but can’t afford them. The Starkey Hearing Foundation donates over 100,000 hearing aids each 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 people with limited incomes.
Finding Affordable Hearing Aids – The First Step
Obtaining a hearing test to find out what level and type of hearing loss you have is step one. Once you get your results, you’ll be able to look into options for how you will start hearing better again. Whether insurance, Veteran’s associations, or other strategies can help is also something we can help with.
Whether you are qualified for coverage or not, there are often less costly solutions.
Let us help.