Unsure about the Cost of Hearing Aids? Here’s What You Need to Know

 

Unsure about the Cost of Hearing Aids? Here’s What You Need to Know.jpgGetting a hearing aid or two is always something of a process. Whether it’s your first time being fitted or you’re replacing an older model, you’re always going to be faced with choices. There are lots of makes and models on the market today, and hearing aid technology has improved by leaps and bounds, which means that getting a device that’s fitted for your unique hearing needs is easier than ever. 

One of the long-standing challenges for most people, however, is the cost of hearing aids. Many people worry that hearing aids will be too expensive, or that the model they need the most won’t fit within their budget. If you’re in this situation, don’t fret—there’s some good news about the cost of hearing aids.

They’re Expensive (but They Don’t Have to Be)

Most people are concerned that their hearing aids will be too expensive. Instead, think of hearing aids as an investment in your health and wellbeing: some models are priced in the range of $3,000 per ear. 

Before worrying about the cost though, note that the $3,000 figure is only for some makes and models or premium hearing aids! Just as there are plenty of options on the market today in terms of features, so too are there plenty of hearing aid options to fit different budgets. That means that there are also much more affordable options.

Not All Devices Are Equal

Before you decide to purchase a device solely on the basis of the price tag attached to it, you’re going to want to think about value. Yes, you might be able to get a more budget-friendly hearing aid by picking a different manufacturer, a cheaper model, or even foregoing some of the options you want, but you must consider the quality of device you’ll get for your dollar. If you purchase a lower-cost device, chances are you won’t get truly great hearing performance. These devices may use subpar or older technologies, or they may simply not be suited for the type of hearing loss you have. They may also have fewer opportunities for customization, which could mean that the device won’t support you the way you need it to. 

In that case, the dollar amount you pay is less important than the ease of use, the level of support you get, and the benefits you reap from the device. If you buy a lower-cost unit to save money but still find yourself struggling to hear, was it really worth the money? A more expensive model may be the better investment. And, the average lifespan of hearing aids maybe five-plus years. 

More importantly, due to the flexibility of better technologies, a more expensive hearing aid may actually provide you better hearing over a longer period of time. This hearing aid is more adjustable and may be better able to accommodate future changes in hearing ability.

There Is Support

Even after considering value, you still know that you can’t afford the hearing aids that you truly need and want. You feel you’re simply going to have to settle for less.

That’s why you need to know that there are options available. Maybe it makes sense to visit with your audiologist about financing options such as Well’s Fargo or Care Credit. In addition, it may be worth considering older advanced technology rather than the most recent options. It might also be helpful to discuss refurbished technology. Or, it may still make sense to invest in entry-level technology that has a history of acceptable performance but staying aware of the limitations. 

Talk to a Specialist

If you’re unsure about your hearing aid options—including the best make or model for you and the costs—talk to an expert. A doctoral-level audiologistcan help you determine the hearing aids that best suit your hearing loss, lifestyle and budget.

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