When it comes to hearing loss, the numbers tell an interesting story. For example, did you know that nearly 466 million people worldwide have at least some hearing problems? Or that almost 10% of the population struggles with tinnitus, a chronic ringing in the ears? But unfortunately, hearing aids are used by just 16% of people who really need them.
There are numerous reasons why somebody who needs a hearing aid may not use one. Often, pride and the perceived stigma of old age causes them to suffer in silence.
Cost is frequently another concern. It can be relatively challenging to get help paying for hearing aids and they can be pretty expensive.
Hearing aids are, however, the best available choice for the majority of people who have hearing loss, and for individuals who can’t afford hearing aids, there are other types of support available.
Deciding Against Hearing Aids Can Come at a Cost
Sadly, the impact of not purchasing a hearing aid when you need one can have a bigger cost than actually buying one. People who have hearing loss commonly encounter more challenges earning a living and deal with more mental health conditions, like depression, solitude, and anxiety. When these issues are added up, the real cost of not getting hearing aids is considerable, 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 ignoring 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 Get Affordable Hearing Aids
There are several solutions available for people who need hearing aids but can’t afford them. The Starkey Hearing Foundation gives 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 help and refurbished hearing aids at a reduced price to people with limited incomes.
Getting Affordable Hearing Aids – The First Move
Before you get hold of any of the services or organizations listed above, you should first get a hearing examination to identify the kind of hearing aid that will work best for you. Once you get your results, you’ll be able to look into options for how you will begin hearing better again. Whether insurance, Veteran’s associations, or other avenues can help is also something we can help with.
In most cases, with a little effort, you can find an option that will fit your budget.
Let us help.