Millions of Americans suffer from a gradual hearing loss, but surveys have shown that 71 percent of hearing aid users have put off buying a hearing aid (for two years and more) because of high hearing aid prices. People who did purchase one said that they have shelled almost $5,000 out of their pockets for a hearing aid and its associated costs such as the audiologist’s fee, hearing test, fitting, programming, and aftercare. And the cost of single hearing aid itself costs $2300 on an average.

Hearing aids are a lifeline for several individuals who use it to compensate for their hearing loss. If your specialist has recommended you buy a hearing aid and if you are considering getting one but find them too expensive then the following guide can help you with some affordable solutions.

1. Shop around and compare hearing aid prices:

First and foremost, it is essential for you to consult your doctor and audiologist so that all your hearing aid information and needs are clarified. Then you should start looking around for options as there will be a difference in cost depending on factors such as the retailers, the brand, the variant and the features available in a product.

2. Don’t invest in more hearing aid than you need:

It is important for you to discuss your hearing challenges with your audiologist who will be able to suggest the appropriate hearing aid according to your needs. You can try on several different models of hearing aids and pick the one that suits your needs best. Skip the extra features such as Bluetooth connectivity to save cost and make sure you get a warranty for your device.

3. Investigate your coverage:

Use your Medicare advantage which offers at least partial coverage for your purchases. And be aware if you fall under any of the categories including war veterans, children, and federal workers and residents belonging to Arkansas, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island, you are eligible for a complete coverage of hearing aid in your health insurance.

4. Ask for a break in price:

Most people who had purchased a hearing aid have mentioned that if they tried to persuade the seller or negotiate on the price, then they received the aid at a lower price. Also, if you take the self-programmed or pre-programmed route to purchase the aid, as does numerous online suppliers, the cost would significantly come down. This helps cut down on the associated costs stated above.

5. Other options:

Further, there are government and independent organizations available such as, the Lions Clubs, which may be able to help you with your hearing aid purchase by offering them at highly discounted rates. Apart from these there are hearing aid coupons available that lets you buy a pair of hearing aids at discounted prices. You can also save some money by buying pre-owned aids, but it has to be your last resort.

Finally, when you decide to make your purchase, be sure to check your ‘hearing aid buying guide and ratings of the retailer’ before and during the purchase of a new hearing aid. You can opt for the ones that come in a package along with other important and replaceable parts. Although they might cost a little extra, you won’t need to fetch a brand-new hearing aid for a long time. Make sure to try on different models and make sure your choice is the one you are most comfortable wearing.

Since there is no denying the fact on the necessity of a hearing aid for a person suffering from any degree of hearing loss, it is also essential to know how to procure it at a less cost so that it’s a viable option.