Millions of Americans aged 50 and over experience hearing loss, a condition that significantly impacts quality of life. Recognizing this widespread issue, HearUSA, a leading hearing care network, has collaborated with AARP to introduce the AARP Hearing Care Program. This program, exclusively for AARP members, is designed to improve access to quality hearing care and address the prevalent issue of untreated hearing loss among seniors. Initially launched in nine states, the AARP Hearing Care Program is now expanding across the nation, promising better hearing health for AARP members.
Understanding the AARP Hearing Care Program from HearUSA
The Aarp Hearing Care Program Provided By Hearusa is specifically tailored to meet the hearing healthcare needs of AARP members. It acknowledges that while a vast majority (95%) of individuals with hearing loss could benefit from hearing aids, only a small fraction, around 22%, currently utilize them. This gap highlights barriers such as cost, access to care, and lack of awareness. The program aims to dismantle these barriers by offering a comprehensive solution.
Stephen Hansbrough, CEO of HearUSA, emphasizes the program’s potential impact, stating, “Only about one in four Americans who could benefit from hearing amplification currently choose to do so. We believe that this program will change that for the better.” The core of the program lies in providing AARP members with access to a wide network of vetted healthcare professionals.
Key Benefits for AARP Members
The AARP Hearing Care Program offers a range of compelling benefits designed to make hearing care more accessible and affordable for AARP members:
- Nationwide Network Access: Members gain access to a broad network of credentialed hearing care providers across the country. This ensures convenient access to professional help, regardless of location.
- Discounts on Advanced Technology: The program facilitates significant discounts on state-of-the-art hearing aid technology. This cost reduction is crucial in making high-quality hearing aids more attainable for seniors on fixed incomes.
- Extended Warranties: To provide added peace of mind, the program includes extended warranties on hearing aids, protecting members from unexpected repair or replacement costs.
- Battery Supplies at Discounted Rates: Ongoing maintenance costs are also addressed with discounts on essential battery supplies for hearing aids.
- Rehabilitation and Consultation: Beyond just devices, the program emphasizes holistic care, providing access to rehabilitation services and ongoing consultations with hearing care professionals to manage hearing loss effectively.
Addressing the Widespread Challenge of Untreated Hearing Loss
The expansion of the AARP Hearing Care Program comes at a critical time, as hearing loss is a significant health concern, particularly for older adults. Statistics from the Hearing Loss Association of America reveal the magnitude of the issue:
- Prevalence: Over 36 million Americans, or one in ten, experience hearing loss.
- Growing Numbers: As the Baby Boomer generation ages, this number is expected to surge, potentially doubling by 2030.
- Age-Related Increase: The likelihood of hearing loss increases with age, developing gradually over many years.
- Common Senior Condition: Among seniors, hearing loss is the third most common treatable disabling condition, following arthritis and hypertension.
- Treatment Gap: Despite the availability of effective treatments like hearing aids, a large majority of those who could benefit are not using them.
Dr. Cindy Beyer, audiologist and HearUSA Senior VP, points out that the program is “designed to address the concerns and confusion that prevent so many older Americans from receiving proper treatment for their hearing loss.”
Nationwide Availability and Positive Reception
Following a successful pilot program in nine states (Florida, New Jersey, New York, Massachusetts, Ohio, Michigan, Missouri, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania), the AARP Hearing Care Program is being rolled out to an additional 24 states by the end of the year. HearUSA anticipates that by the end of 2011, the program will be accessible to AARP members in all 50 states and US territories. This widespread availability will be supported by a network of over 3,500 credentialed hearing care providers.
David Mathis, Senior VP at AARP Services Inc., highlights the positive feedback from the pilot program: “In an independent survey of 268 members during the Hearing Care Program Pilot, all respondents said they were satisfied with the HearUSA program and gave the program a score of 90% or higher.” This high satisfaction rate underscores the program’s effectiveness and value to AARP members.
Improving Quality of Life Through Better Hearing
The AARP Hearing Care Program goes beyond just providing hearing aids; it aims to enhance the overall quality of life for seniors. Untreated hearing loss has been linked to various negative impacts, including social isolation, reduced income, and strained relationships. As Dr. Beyer notes, “Studies show that hearing aids can improve personal income, increase intimacy and warmth in family relationships, encourage social participation, and provide a better sense of control over life events and one’s physical health.” By facilitating access to proper hearing care, the program empowers AARP members to live fuller, more connected lives.
The AARP Hearing Care Program provided by HearUSA represents a significant step forward in addressing hearing loss among seniors. By combining AARP’s commitment to its members with HearUSA’s expertise in hearing care, this program offers a valuable resource for millions seeking to improve their hearing health and overall well-being.
