When purchasing a hearing aid there are many factors to consider. This can be overwhelming when trying to do it on your own. Partner with a professional who can walk you through the steps and help simplify the process. Purchasing the most expensive hearing aid is not always the best option for every lifestyle and budget. The same goes with buying the least expensive one. Since quality of life while wearing hearing aids is determined by the technology needed for your lifestyle, be sure to purchase the best technology you can afford. A licensed and trained professional can take you through the process of determining which is the best fit for you.
The Cost of Hearing Aids
Hearing aids will bring about a significant change to your quality of life. What determines the cost of each hearing aid is the instrument itself as well as ongoing professional services to keep them working as time goes on and your hearing changes. Hearing aids are very different than owning a computer or TV. They require a great deal of professional service and maintenance. Think of hearing aids as physical therapy for your ears. You will need to have routine check ups and maintenance, as well as programming and adjustments done throughout the life of the instrument.
With regular care and maintenance, digital hearing aids will last the user an average of 3-5 years and cost between $1,000-$3,500 per ear. While the initial investment is costly, even the most expensive hearing aids will average $3.50 per day over the life of the device.
Look for a licensed hearing care provider who will include a multitude of services with the price of your hearing aid, including:
- Annual hearing tests
- Hearing aid demonstration
- Lifetime of the hearing aids adjustments and maintenance
- Office visits
- Factory warranty on hearing aids
- Lost and damage insurance policy
- Hearing aid programming
- Regular in-office hearing aid cleaning
“Your hearing aid is only as good as the person who fits you. There is a lot to the sophisticated computers inside of your hearing aid, and having someone who is knowledgeable in the technology and takes a personal caring approach to treat your needs is the necessary combination for success.”
–Robyn Lofton, BC-HIS
Financing Options
While hearing aids are an incredible tool for improving your lifestyle, the cost can be overwhelming. Many older adults on fixed incomes are faced with the task of paying for hearing aids out of their own pockets, requiring them to set aside for months, to borrow money from family members, or seek assistance in some ways. Fortunately, there are a number of financing options available when it comes to purchasing hearing aids.
Financing options range from payment plans to third party credit options. Look for a hearing aid provider that offers a financing option that allows you to purchase the best hearing aids to treat your hearing loss.
Warranties For Devices
Most hearing aid manufacturers offer two or three year warranties to cover their devices. These warranties will often cover major repairs such as:
- Damaged cases
- Wiring issues
- One-time full replacement
As the average hearing aid is expected to last between three to five years, the manufacturers’ warranties are not expected to cover the entire lifetime of the hearing aid. That is why it is so important to work with a hearing aid provider who offers you lifetime care for your hearing aids. Many licensed hearing care providers may also offer privately provided extended warranties within their office.
Insurance Assistance
Some insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost of hearing aids. Most providers will happily work with you to see if your health insurance company or Medicare will cover any or all of your hearing aid purchase. Be sure to provide your hearing aid specialist with your insurance information before or at your appointment so that they can check for you.
Another Potential Hearing Aid Coverage Route
If you are struggling to afford your desired hearing aids, the Starkey Hearing Foundation may be able to help. Through the foundation’s Hear Now assistance program, patients have received heavily discounted hearing aids(3). By contacting the Starkey Hearing Foundation at (800) 328-8602, you can receive more information about this charitable program.
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