Washington needs to restore hearing aid funding

Imagine attending a family function or professional function unable to grasp large chunks of what is being said. Imagine the personal embarrassment and loss of enjoyment or opportunity. Imagine the frustration it produces. For years that was my experience. But I’m lucky. I could afford to purchase hearing aids and did. Life is so much better. Others aren’t so fortunate.

The number of Washingtonians experiencing hearing loss, the prohibitive cost of hearing aid devices, and the lack of insurance coverage is analogous to a snowball headed downhill. For older adults, there aren’t many places to turn for help. Medicare doesn’t cover hearing aid devices and Medicaid will only cover a hearing test not the actual device. Add to this an estimated 650,000 residents who are currently affected by hearing loss and the possibility that up to 50 percent of our growing 75+ population will experience hearing loss, it is certain that we need to reinstate coverage. Fortunately, Senator Barbara Bailey’s SB 5179 does exactly that.

Hearing aids can positively affect quality of life for both the wearer and their family by reducing feelings of depression, anxiety, and social isolation. Taking steps to ensure low-income Washingtonians who are experiencing hearing loss can remain active, hold a job, and get around independently can save our state money in the long run. The time is now for the House of Representatives to include hearing aid funding in their final operating budget.

This story was originally published June 27, 2017 at 5:31 PM with the headline "Washington needs to restore hearing aid funding."