If you’ve ever researched hearing aids, you may have been taken aback by the price. You are not alone. In fact, one of the questions we get asked most often is, “Why are hearing aids so expensive?”
While the price tag can be daunting at first, when you understand exactly what you’re paying for, it starts to make a lot more sense—and it can seem like a much better investment.
Keep reading to learn about what factors go into the cost of hearing aids, and what sets them apart from other types of consumer electronics.
Advanced Technology in Hearing Aids
Unlike the hearing devices of just a couple of decades ago, today’s hearing aids are smaller, sleek, and very discreet. They are also full of the latest, greatest technology to help you hear better.
Hearing aids are basically little computers, built to process sound in real time. Each hearing aid contains digital processors that are continually analyzing and responding to your environment, automatically adapting your sound and comfort settings, so you hear as much and as clearly as possible.
The features you may be paying for include:
- Directional microphones that filter out background noise and focus on speech
- Feedback suppression to reduce or eliminate whistling
- Wireless Bluetooth® connectivity to stream directly from your phone, TV or other devices
- Artificial intelligence that helps the hearing device learn and adapt to your environment and preferences
- Rechargeable batteries for all-day power and convenience
This technology is the result of years (and years and years) of Research & Development, and it’s one of the reasons why hearing aids can be so expensive.
Personalized Hearing Aid Fitting and Programming
Hearing aids aren’t just “plug and play,” they are prescribed medical devices and after a thorough hearing test by a licensed professional, your hearing aids are programmed to fit your unique hearing loss.
The customization process may also include:
- Precision programming designed to treat the specific type and degree of hearing loss
- Real-time adjustments to accommodate your lifestyle and typical listening environments
- Careful fine-tuning over time as you and your brain adjust to hearing a fuller range of sounds again
The time and attention involved in the hearing aid fitting process and follow-ups with your hearing care professional are critical to long-term success and comfort, and it is also part of the value of what you’re paying for.
Professional Hearing Care Services and Ongoing Support
Buying a hearing aid from HearingLife doesn’t mean you’re simply purchasing a product and sending a check. You are becoming a member of our family, and you can expect the support of a team of caring, professional, licensed hearing care providers.
The ongoing support and services we provide typically include:
- Routine cleaning and professional maintenance
- Follow-up adjustments and check-ins to address any concerns
- Annual hearing checkups
- Education and counseling about hearing loss and how to get the most from your hearing aids
- After-hours assistance through our OnDemand team
This level of professional care and support is part of what makes HearingLife so special, and it is one of the things that goes into the price of our hearing aids.
Hearing Aid Warranties and Optional Protection Plans
Manufacturer warranties for hearing aids will vary by company; but in most cases, you will have coverage for repairs related to defects in the products and sometimes there will be protection for loss or damage.
At HearingLife, we also offer extended warranty options, as well as separate service plans that can extend and broaden coverage. Be sure to ask your hearing care professional about your warranty when you purchase hearing aids.
Research, Development and Innovation in Hearing Technology
The technology inside your hearing aids is the result of years of research, development and innovation. Hearing aid manufacturers are constantly working to improve sound quality, speech clarity, comfort and user control.
When you invest in hearing aids, you are not just paying for the product in your ears and the service you receive. You are also a direct beneficiary of years of science, research, clinical trials and innovation that lead to better performance.
Financing Options to Help Make Hearing Affordable
HearingLife offers a range of financing options designed to help you find a solution that meets your needs and budget. These options make quality hearing care more accessible by allowing you to spread the cost over time in a way that works for you.
We also work with your insurance to maximize any hearing aid benefit you may have. And remember, you can use your FSA or HSA to purchase hearing aids too.
Investing in hearing aids is more than just purchasing a device—it’s an investment in your quality of life. At HearingLife, we’re committed to providing you with advanced technology, personalized care, and flexible financing options so you can hear better and live better. If you’re ready to take the next step, schedule a consultation with one of our hearing care professionals today. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
