Regarding hearing loss, the numbers tell an interesting story. As an example, globally, over 466 million people experience some kind of hearing problem. Or that about 10% of the population has 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 numerous reasons why a person who requires a hearing aid might not use one. They may choose to suffer silently because they are worried about a possible stigma associated with aging or are too full of pride to wear a hearing aid.
Price is often another worry. It can be relatively challenging to get assistance paying for hearing aids and they can be rather expensive.
The truth is, however, that hearing aids are the best solution available to most people who have hearing loss, and for people who can’t afford hearing aids, there are other types of help available.
The Real Cost of Not Using Hearing Aids
Unfortunately, the true cost of not using a hearing aid can be even worse than the financial consequence of purchasing them. People suffering from hearing loss frequently encounter more challenges earning a living and deal with more mental health conditions, including depression, isolation, and anxiety. When these problems are added up, the real cost of not getting hearing aids is considerable, both in the quality of life and in health concerns that turn up later. As a matter of fact, studies have shown that ignoring hearing loss can increase your healthcare costs by up to 40%.
What makes that statistic even more surprising is that there are lots of ways to make hearing aids affordable.
How to Find Affordable Hearing Aids
There are several solutions available for people 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 more than 100,000 every year. Other groups and organizations offer financial assistance and refurbished hearing aids at a discounted price to people with limited incomes.
What’s My First Step in Getting Affordable Hearing Aids?
Obtaining a hearing test to find out what level and type of hearing loss you have is your first step. Your hearing test results will give you a starting point and you can then look at options. Whether insurance, Veteran’s associations, or other avenues can help is also something we can help with.
Whether you are qualified for coverage or not, there are frequently less costly solutions.
Let us help.