According to the VA, over 1.3 million veterans received disability compensation related to hearing loss in 2020. The good news is that accessing hearing care for veterans in Arizona has never been easier. There are also numerous senior hearing care resources available.
Are you facing hearing challenges such as tinnitus or general hearing loss? Below, you’ll learn about senior and VA hearing aid benefits in Arizona so you can get the support you need.
The Importance of Hearing Health for Veterans and Seniors
Age-related hearing loss and service-connected hearing injuries are among the most common chronic conditions affecting older adults and veterans. Hearing loss and tinnitus are among the top service-connected disabilities among all veterans.
Untreated hearing loss has been linked to several other negative health outcomes, including the following:
- Cognitive decline
- Increased dementia risk
- Depression and anxiety
- Balance issues and falls
- Reduced communication with caregivers and family
The good news is that you don’t have to wait until you are facing these challenges. If you think you are experiencing hearing loss, get tested as soon as possible.
Hearing Care Resources for Veterans
There are extensive Arizona veteran audiology services available. If you are eligible, VA benefits can cover diagnostic testing, hearing aids, and more. Here are the resources available to you.
Direct Care From the Department of Veterans Affairs
Eligible veterans can access comprehensive audiology care through the Phoenix VA Health Care System or through community care partners like Happy Ears Hearing Center. The VA provides:
- Hearing evaluations
- Custom-fit hearing aids and assistive devices
- Batteries, repairs, and maintenance
- Tinnitus relief for veterans, including counseling and sound therapy
You may qualify for VA-covered hearing treatment if you have service-related hearing loss. The VA also extends benefits to veterans who are receiving care for other disabilities or those who meet specific income eligibility criteria.
VA Community Care Program
The VA has hundreds of audiologists and other hearing professionals. However, some Arizona veterans simply can’t make the drive to one of these facilities. If that sounds like you, consider seeking care through the VA Community Care Program. This program creates a network of approved local providers.
These programs are designed to correct hearing loss and provide tinnitus relief for veterans. Find a provider near you and start your road to better hearing.
Getting Started
To access VA hearing care, you should:
- Contact your local VA audiology department or patient advocate
- Ask for a referral to a community provider if distance or appointment waiting times are an issue
- Bring your VA benefits card and service record information to your first visit
Getting the care you need is that easy.
Hearing Care Programs and Support for Arizona Seniors
Here are the resources available to make hearing aids for seniors more accessible:
Medicare and Supplemental Coverage
Does Medicare cover hearing aids? No, traditional Medicare plans do not cover hearing aids or hearing exams. If your provider orders a diagnostic hearing test, you may be covered.
Consider adding a Medicare Advantage or Medigap plan to offset these costs. Make sure to review your coverage each year, as benefits change.
Arizona State and Local Programs
Several organizations offer senior hearing care resources throughout the state. Here are a few options to explore:
- Arizona Commission for the Deaf and the Hard of Hearing
- Area Agencies on Aging
- Lions Club of Arizona
- Vocational Rehabilitation Services
Do a quick Google search to find out whether any of these entities are located near you, and explore their services.
Non-Profit and Manufacturer Assistance
Certain hearing aid manufacturers offer discounted or refurbished devices through nonprofit initiatives. For example, the Hearing Aid Project helps eligible seniors with limited income access reliable new or refurbished hearing aids. You can apply through the organization’s portal and find help near you.
How to Know When You May Have a Hearing Problem
Many adults delay seeing an audiologist until hearing loss becomes severe. Don’t wait. The sooner you seek care, the better your odds of mitigating the risks of hearing loss. You should book an appointment if you:
- Turn up the TV or radio to volumes that disturb others
- Ask people to repeat themselves often
- Have a tough time keeping up with group conversations
- Experience ringing or buzzing
- Feel frustrated in social settings
Even mild hearing changes can signal underlying issues that deserve attention. Hearing aids are smaller, smarter, and more comfortable than ever. Don’t be embarrassed about hearing loss. Get the support you need.
How Happy Ears Hearing Center Supports Veterans and Seniors
Choosing the right facility to help you on your journey to hearing better will set the stage for a smooth process. Happy Ears Hearing Center proudly serves veterans, seniors, and other Arizonans who need our expertise. When you seek care at our clinic, you’ll benefit from:
- Experienced audiologists
- VA and Medicare collaboration
- Personalized hearing solutions
- Comprehensive support
Our goal is to help clients get the tools and support they need to hear clearly.
Take the Next Step Toward Hearing Better
If you’re a veteran or senior in Arizona, don’t wait to seek help. The path to better hearing begins with a simple hearing evaluation. Our friendly team can guide you through benefits verification, insurance questions, and device selection.
Find a location near you and book an appointment with Happy Ears Hearing Center.
