..Hey TRFs - Hearing Aid Advice wanted...

[BBL]

This is the situation.....
I have a widow friend 76yrs old, (has Medicare, military benefits, retired) whose hearing is declining.
Great person, caring, generous, a good friend. but talks over and drowns out other people's conversations....doesn't mean to, I'm sure.

I have (gently) asked about hearing exam/aides, but I'm told "no money" due to being hit by several unforeseen events with long term impact that have eaten into savings. Has to account for every penny on strict budget to pay bills. Very proud person, will not take any government/community/friendship assistance of any kind.

If Medicare covered 100% regardless of income, would be a non issue. But due to retirement, monthly income level, would have to pay out of pocket.

Any ideas products/plans (USA), that I can suggest that worked for you, or you know about? I've searched the internet for local hearing services and looked into the unlimited adverts that are never-ceasing mailers, but I feel that no company actually will accept Medicare and a supplement only - out of pocket will be necessary.

Thank you,
DM

[Dr.Brian]

The first step is an evaluation by an audiologist to determine the nature of his hearing loss. If he has single sided deafness and qualifies for a bone anchored hearing, aid that is covered as it is classified an implantable medical device.

[THC]

My brother is 61 and his own Blue Cross policy did not cover his hearing aids either.. something wrong with MediCare and all insurance that refuse this.. best wishes to your friend

[cjohns]

My son who is 33 now has had over 10 operations on his left ear and he just saw his audiologist who is the Dept head at the U of Minnesota and he said Costco ! Up to date technology and they have good prices.

[utc66]

Agree with COSTCO my mother got her hearing aids there.

[swils8610]

Has your friend contacted the VA? My brother served in the Navy and his hearing aids were paid for by the VA.


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[ppbskis]

I am 56 and on my 4th set of Hearing Aids since 2006. Without a doubt Costco is the cheapest, I just purchased a state of the art set with Bluetooth capability into my phone for $ 2200.00 My first set cost 3k ten years ago and were no where near as sophisticated as this set.
I would think your friend could get a "behind the ear" pair for $ 600- 800 dollars.

[keschete]

The VA provides basic hearing aids for no cost.

[BBL]

Thank you everyone for your valuable input. I will forward your suggestions, and see what happens.
Cheers to all.
Blessings,
DM