Yes, hearing aids are very expensive, but hearing well is extremely valuable. It is a choice people make if they want to remain in the hearing mainstream, especially if the loss they experience is severe.

Another option for you might be trying one of the non prescriptive hearing aids that are now available. These 'over the counter' (OTC) hearing aids are really untested. We encourage people who have tried them to let us know about their experience. If you go the OTC route, be sure to ask questions about return policy. You will want to be able to return them if they don't help you. If you buy that way be sure to try them in every place you want to be able to hear. Don't get frustrated and take them off.

Many people purchase prescriptive products at 'big box stores' like Costco. They do testing there and can fit hearing aids professionally. Their products are about 1/4 the price of many that are sold elsewhere. They are not of the OTC variety.

It would be wise to have a hearing test done by a professional audiologist prior to seeking hearing aid help even if you want to buy less costly products. Get the testing done. Most insurance, and Medicare will cover that. Request a copy of your audiogram/test results so you can take it to a different provider such as the hearing instrument specialists at Costco. They can test you there too, but it might help to be able to compare the results.

Have you been tested by a professional audiologist?