Hearing loss in adults may be so gradual you don’t realize how much your hearing has declined. According to Barbara Kelley, executive director of the Hearing Loss Association of America, it may take an average of seven to ten years before someone gets help.
A hearing device may be expensive (range $1,000 – $4,000 per device). It is not covered by Medicare. With recent approval from Congress a class of hearing devices will be created and administered through the Food and Drug Administration. They need to write regulations for over-the-counter hearing devices for mild to moderate loss. It will take approximately three years and cover labelling, safety, etc. The devices are supposed to be reasonably priced.
The first step remains – get tested. Your medical plan may have an audiologist available to conduct tests. Hearing centers are also available. You can also check AARP for hearing centers.
Based on an article from Kiplinger’s Retirement Report, February 2018.