According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) over 30% of people over the age of 60 and 50% of those over 85 have significant hearing loss. Untreated hearing problems can lead to social isolation and depression as it becomes more and more difficult to follow conversations and participate in activities with others. Additionally, hearing aid costs are high, averaging around $3000, largely due to bundling of other services and lack of competition. A study conducted by Dr. Ramachadran at the Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit reveals that 75 to 80% of adults needing hearing aids go without. There is no excuse for withholding treatment that is vitally important to maintaining the function and quality of life for the majority of Medicare beneficiaries.
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