Regarding hearing loss, the numbers tell an interesting story. As an example, around the world, over 466 million people experience some kind of hearing problem. Or that about 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 individuals who need hearing aids have ever used them.
People who need hearing aids might choose not to use them for numerous reasons. They might choose to suffer in silence because they are concerned about a possible stigma linked to aging or are too prideful to use a hearing aid.
Cost is often another worry. It can be fairly challenging to get assistance paying for hearing aids and they can be rather costly.
The fact remains, however, that hearing aids are the best choice available to most people who suffer from hearing loss, and there are other services and assistance available to people who couldn’t normally afford hearing aids.
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 issues. When these issues are added up, the true cost of not getting hearing aids is substantial, both in the quality of life and in health issues that appear later. Your healthcare costs can, in reality, increase by up to 40% by dismissing hearing loss according to research.
What makes that statistic even more shocking is that there are numerous ways to make hearing aids affordable.
Getting Affordable Hearing Aids
There are several options available for individuals who need hearing aids but cannot afford them. Individuals that have 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. Other groups and organizations offer financial help and refurbished hearing aids at a reduced price to people with restricted incomes.
Getting Affordable Hearing Aids – The First Step
Getting a hearing test to find out what level and kind of hearing loss you have is your first step. Once you obtain your results, you’ll be able to look into options for how you will begin hearing better again. We can also help you determine whether insurance, Veteran’s associations, or other affiliations will help with the costs.
Whether you are eligible for coverage or not, there are frequently less expensive solutions.
Let us help.