Guide to Buying Affordable Hearing Aids Online and In-Store

Understanding Hearing Loss and Hearing Aids

Hearing loss is one of the most prevalent health conditions in the world. It affects people of all ages, negatively impacting communication and quality of life. Hearing aids are electronic devices worn in or around the ear to help amplify sounds for those with hearing impairment. They work either by making sounds louder or by clarifying speech and noise.

Common signs that hearing aids may help improve hearing include:

• Frequently needing others to repeat themselves
• Difficulty following conversations, especially in noisy environments
• Turning up the volume on televisions or radios to loud levels
• Misunderstanding what others are saying
• Withdrawing from social situations due to hearing challenges

Consulting with an audiologist for a hearing evaluation can determine whether hearing aids are recommended for your type and degree of hearing loss.

Cost Considerations for Purchasing Hearing Aids

Hearing aids range widely in price from hundreds to thousands of dollars per device. Factors impacting the cost include:

Type

Basic analog models are cheaper, while more advanced digital programmable hearing aids cost more.

Features

Smaller custom devices with bluetooth connectivity or rechargeable batteries can increase the price.

Brand

Major manufacturers like Phonak, Oticon, and Signia offer premium products at higher price points.

Bundled Services

Pricing can vary based on inclusion of fittings, tune-ups, warranty coverage, and supplies.

Retailer

Purchasing through big box stores may be less expensive than smaller audiology clinics.

Buying Hearing Aids at Discounted Prices

Those looking for more affordable hearing aids have several options to consider for obtaining discounted pricing:

Government and Nonprofit Programs

Medicare, Medicaid, the VA, and nonprofits like the Starkey Hearing Foundation offer financial assistance or discounted hearing aids based on income level.

Manufacturer Rebates and Coupons

Many hearing aid brands offer rebates or coupons online and through clinics to help offset higher retail costs.

Audiology Clinic Payment Plans

Check if clinics offer payment plans allowing purchase of hearing aids through more manageable monthly installments.

Secondary Marketplaces

Used and refurbished hearing aids can be purchased at significantly lower prices through venues like eBay, Audicus, and HearingDirect.

Lower-Cost Models

Basic hearing aids with limited features and warrantees can be 30-50% less than premium options.

6 Top Places to Buy Affordable Hearing Aids

Here are some of the best options for finding discounted hearing aids from reputable sellers:

1. Costco

The Kirkland Signature brand at Costco provides high-quality digital hearing aids at prices up to 50% below competitors.

2. Sam's Club

Sam's Club offers a range of major brand hearing aids at 20-30% savings compared to traditional clinics.

3. MDHearingAid

This online seller has new FDA-registered hearing aids starting under $200 with free fit adjustments and support.

4.Audicus

Both new and used hearing aids are sold at Audicus with price-matching guarantees and financing options.

5. Amazon

Reputable hearing aid brands can be purchased new or used on Amazon at competitive prices.

6. Walmart

The HearX private label brand provides digital hearing aids at everyday low prices both online and in-store.

Buying Guide for Affordable Hearing Aids

When shopping for discounted hearing aids, keep the following buying considerations in mind:

Product Return Policies

Make sure satisfactory return windows are offered in case the aids don't work for your hearing loss.

Professional Fitting Services

Look for free follow-up fittings and adjustments to ensure hearing aids are properly calibrated.

Device Warranties

At minimum 1-year warranties should protect against defects in materials and workmanship.

Battery Options

Determine if affordable batteries are included or available for potential cost savings.

Technical Support

Free technical assistance and maintenance is useful if problems arise with hearing aid devices.

Types of Hearing Aids

When purchasing affordable hearing aids, you'll encounter design options including:

Behind-the-Ear (BTE)

This style hooks over the ear and connects by tube to a custom earpiece. It's durable and easily adjustable.

In-the-Ear (ITE)

This hearing aid fits entirely inside the ear. It's discreet but can be difficult to manipulate due to small size.

In-the-Canal (ITC)

Deeper in-the-ear canal models make these nearly invisible aids, though ear wax can clog them.

Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC)

Nearly hidden in the ear canal, these are cosmetically appealing but require more care and maintenance.

Receiver-in-the-Ear (RITE)

With components inside the ear canal and a receiver behind the ear, these combine the best of both worlds.

Key Features to Look for in Affordable Hearing Aids

When shopping on a budget, prioritize hearing aids with these useful features:

• Directional microphones - pick up sound sources in front better than behind.
• Telecoil - transmits sound signals directly from compatible phones.
• Data logging - tracks aid usage, environments, and volume adjustments.
• Feedback cancellation - prevents squealing noises from picking up amplified audio.
• Bluetooth connectivity - allows programming apps and wireless audio streaming.
• Tinnitus masking - provides soothing background sounds to negate ringing.

Saving Money on Hearing Aid Accessories

The ongoing cost for batteries, maintenance, cleaning tools, ear molds, and warranties can add up. Ways to save include:

• Choosing rechargeable battery models
• Purchasing affordable batteries in bulk online
• Using hydrogen peroxide for cleaning instead of brand cleaners
• Ordering replacement earbud tips and tubes from Amazon
• Investing in dry-aid kits to extend time between cleanings
• Skipping additional warranty costs by handling repairs out-of-pocket

Caring for Hearing Aids to Extend Use

Properly maintaining hearing aids helps them last 4-6 years. Recommended ways to provide care include:

• Always turning aids off when not in use
• Storing in a dehumidifying kit overnight
• Swapping batteries out regularly
• Keeping free of moisture, earwax, and debris
• Using a soft brush and pick daily to clear ear pieces
• Avoiding exposure to chemicals, heat, and dust

Signs It's Time to Replace Hearing Aids

Even well-cared for hearing aids eventually need replacement. Some signs aging devices should be retired include:

• Frequent need to raise volume to maximum setting
• Difficulty hearing conversations even in quiet environments
• Issues with feedback, buzzing, or whistling
• Frequent battery draining within just hours
• Damage like cracks or moisture infiltration
• Parts no longer available for your model

Consult your audiologist if new hearing aids may be needed to improve hearing difficulties.

The Benefits of Amplified Hearing

While hearing aids require an investment, they provide many advantages like:

• Clearer hearing and speech understanding
• Reduced listening effort
• Improved work performance
• Better safety awareness
• Increased social engagement
• Boost to cognitive function
• More confidence and independence

Purchasing affordable hearing aids allows those with hearing loss to enjoy conversation and everyday sounds again.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.