Is it possible to get rid of used hearing aids? The answer is definitely the same whether you choose to update to a more advanced model such as cochlear implants or you got them from a departed relative: donate your pre-owned hearing aids versus throwing them away.
There are several organizations that collect and circulate used hearing aids to people who need them, and there are plenty of people who need them. Keep reading to find out how and why to donate used hearing aids.
Why It’s Important to Contribute a Pre-owned Hearing Aid
First, here are some significant statistics about hearing loss and hearing aids in the United States:
- Of the total population, around 14% have some type of hearing loss
- Of all of the adults suffering from loss of hearing 91% percent are over 50 years old
- There is evidence of loss of hearing in 15% of school aged children
- Hearing aids would help almost 29 million adults with hearing loss, but…
- …hearing aids are actually used by only 16% (4.6 million) of them
- First time hearing aid users have an average age of 70, but again…
- Fewer than 30% of people over 70 who require hearing aids have ever used them
This is really worrisome. Because untreated hearing loss has been associated with multiple health issues from a greater risk of falling to mental decline and depression. The value of your hearing to your general health is backed up by new research coming out all of the time. Getting hearing aids can prevent these health issues (and in some situations even reverse them).
And hearing loss will cost the typical family up to $12,000 every year which should be an extremely compelling fact. But hearing aids can actually decrease that cost by as much as 50%.
For a family that loses out on $12,000 each year, it may just not be feasible for them to pay for a hearing aid.
For an individual in need, who can’t afford a hearing aid, your used hearing aids can have a tremendous effect on their financial well being, quality of life, and overall health. It could also cost a child the ability to go to college and better their lives because they are unable to hear in school.
How to Donate Your Used Hearing Aid
There are lots of volunteer organizations and makers who help recycle old hearing aids. Come by and we can help you find a recycling program. Or give us a call.