When considering hearing loss, the numbers say everything. As an illustration, around the world, over 466 million individuals suffer from some kind of hearing issue. Or that about 10% of the population suffers from tinnitus, a chronic ringing in the ears? But unfortunately, hearing aids are used by only 16% of individuals who actually need them.
People who require hearing aids might choose not to use them for numerous reasons. Often, pride and the perceived stigma of growing older causes them to suffer silently.
Cost is often another worry. It can be relatively challenging to get assistance paying for hearing aids and they can be rather expensive.
Hearing aids are, however, the best available choice for most individuals who have hearing loss, and there are other services and assistance available to those who couldn’t normally afford hearing aids.
The True Cost of Not Wearing Hearing Aids
Regrettably, the real cost of not using a hearing aid can be even more than the financial consequence of purchasing them. Solitude, anxiety, and depression are more prevalent in individuals with hearing loss and they also have a higher rate of mental health problems. When both the possible future health issues, and the quality of life challenges are added up, the cost of not getting hearing aids is significant. In fact, studies have shown that ignoring hearing loss can increase your healthcare costs by up to 40%.
And the fact that there are several ways to make hearing aids more affordable makes this even more surprising.
How to Get Affordable Hearing Aids
There are a few solutions available for individuals who need hearing aids but can’t afford them. The Starkey Hearing Foundation gives over 100,000 hearing aids each year to individuals dealing with hearing loss who otherwise could not afford treatments. People who have restricted incomes can get financial help or refurbished hearing aids from a few different groups.
Getting Affordable Hearing Aids – The First Step
Before you make contact with any of the services or institutions listed above, you should first get a hearing test to identify the type of hearing aid that is the best choice for you. Your hearing test results will point you in the right direction and you can then look at solutions. Whether insurance, Veteran’s associations, or other strategies can help is also something we can help with.
Usually, with a little effort, you can uncover an option that will fit your budget.
Just ask us.