subject: Locate Discounted Or Subsidized Hearing Aids [print this page] If you are looking for free, subsidized or discount hearing aids, please keep reading for a list of helpful resources that will steer you in the right direction.
For older Americans, there are programs available to assist in the purchase of quality hearing aids at lower costs.
Medicaid
Those who qualify for Medicaid also are in line to receive free or discount hearing aids. You should first speak with your Medicaid provider about your qualifications for a subsidy or how you can obtain a set to enhance your hearing ability.
Unfortunately, hearing aids are not covered in all states of the US. For example, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida and 17 additional states of the union do not provide coverage or assistance for these devices.
Meanwhile, California, Hawaii, Illinois and 27 other states do. Additionally, some may require that you make a co-payment while others do not cover the expense of binaural hearing aids.
Typically, your purchase of these devices will be limited to a certain dollar amount - which of course puts a squeeze on elder people locked into a fixed income. So before you attempt to obtain hearing aids through Medicaid, make it a point to first speak with a Medicaid state representative who is familiar with coverage, costs, and restrictions.
National Council on Aging
Your local branch of the National Council on Aging may be able to assist in your search for hearing aid grants or subsidy programs in your area. Some county councils on Aging also run programs that permit people to donate used hearing aids that still function well. These aids are then passed on to those in need.
To locate a National Council on Aging office or branch near you, visit their website at ncoa.org. A representative there will be able to provide you all necessary details related to finding hearing aid subsidies or lesser-known deals where you live.
Warranties and Contracts
If you are buying a set of hearing aids - whether through a purchase discount or one at full cost - make sure you read and understand the merchant's return policy. Most sellers of discounted hearing aids will offer a trial period lasting between 30 to 45 days.
This time frame permits you sufficient time to give the hearing aids a fairly thorough test in a number of environmental circumstances (for example, at home, watching TV, conversations, sounds of nature, etc.) to determine whether you wish to keep them.
Even if it looks like a great deal on the surface, resist the temptation to purchase a hearing aid that is not accompanied by a money-back testing period.
