I encourage you to get the hearing aids now. The longer you wait, the more difficult it will be to adjust to them. Who tested your hearing most recently? Was it an audiologist? Regardless, you would be wise to ask them for a copy of your audiogram for comparison.

It sounds as if your hearing loss is mild or moderate because you've been getting along without having them. You may want to try Costco if there is one in your area. They sell basic hearing aids. Their products are not the over the counter variety. They will test you so you can compare the earlier audiogram with the Costco one.

The advantage of Costco is the lengthy trial period they allow. Most providers allow no more than 45 days; many only 30. Costco allows 6 months. That gives you time to try the hearing aids in just about every possible situation where you will want to have them. If they don't help enough you can return them and get your money back.

I do not endorse products or providers, but I feel it's important for people to be aware of different policies.

The hearing industry is interesting. There are people with doctorate level degrees (AuD) that dispense hearing aids. There are people with high school diplomas who become Hearing Instrument Specialists (HIS) through training. Some have master's degrees. The important thing is to find a product the works and a provider who is helpful.

Good luck to you.