Hearing loss is a profound medical condition that affects millions of Americans. Through the use of hearing aids, the impact of hearing loss can be mitigated. For the poor unable to afford such devices, assistance in the form of grants is available.
Grant Money
Monies offered in the form of grants do not have to be repaid. Any other financial schemes are likely loans.
Hearing Loss
According to MayoClinic.com, hearing loss increases as people age. Hereditary factors as well as loud noises can contribute to hearing loss. A hearing specialist can diagnose hearing loss and offer treatment, usually in the form of prescribing a hearing aid.
Hearing Aids
The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) offers guidelines on the types of hearing aids available. Two different electronic devices are offered based on analog or digital technology. Analog hearing aids are usually less expensive than digital devices. Hearing aid styles will also impact price as some are designed to sit in the ear canal, on the outer ear, or behind the ear.
Costs
According to HealthyHearing.com, hearing aids cost $1,000 to $4,000 each, as of 2009. Prices have actually dropped over the years.
Grants
According to the Hearing Loss Association, hearing aid grant money may be available through Medicaid. In addition, some insurance plans cover hearing aids while military veterans may qualify through their local VA hospital. Hearing aid banks and medical clinics sometimes offer hearing aids for free or at sliding scale prices based according to income.
Tags: hearing aids, hearing loss, form grants
