How to Get Help With Hearing Aids in Kentucky

Hearing loss is one of the most common health issues affecting older adults, but hearing aids can be expensive. Many seniors in Kentucky find themselves struggling to afford the devices that could make daily conversations, TV time, and family visits so much more enjoyable.

If you’re wondering how to get help paying for hearing aids or where to turn for support, you’re not alone. Here are some useful options for seniors in Kentucky who want to hear better while spending less.

1. Kentucky’s State Hearing Aid Assistance Program

The Kentucky Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (KCDHH) offers a program called the Kentucky Assistive Technology Loan Corporation (KATLC). While it’s a loan program, it provides low-interest financing to help purchase hearing aids and other assistive devices.

Website: kcdhh.ky.gov
Phone: 502-573-2604

You can also check with the KCDHH to ask about other possible sources of help or device donation programs in the state.

2. The Kentucky Lions Eye Foundation

Many Lions Clubs across Kentucky help seniors with hearing aids, especially for those with limited income. Assistance varies by club, but it may include refurbished hearing aids or financial help with new ones.

Visit: kylionseye.org
Or call your local Lions Club chapter directly to ask if they offer hearing aid assistance.

3. Veterans May Qualify Through the VA

If you are a veteran enrolled in VA health care, you may be eligible to receive hearing aids at no cost. The VA provides full hearing evaluations and hearing aids for veterans whose hearing loss is connected to their service or affects their quality of life.

To learn more, contact your local VA clinic or visit va.gov.

4. Medicaid and Managed Care in Kentucky

For seniors who qualify for Medicaid in Kentucky, some Managed Care Organizations (MCOs) offer hearing benefits, including basic hearing aids. These benefits can vary depending on the plan, so it’s best to call your provider and ask for details.

Be sure to also ask your doctor or audiologist if they accept Medicaid and can help you with the paperwork.

5. Nonprofits and National Assistance Programs

There are several programs that serve people all across the country, including Kentucky residents:

• Starkey Hearing Foundation (starkeyhearingfoundation.org)
  Offers hearing aids to people in need through their Hear Now program.

• Audient Alliance (audientalliance.org)
  Helps low-income individuals get discounted hearing aids through a national network of providers.

• Hearing Aid Project (hearingaiddonations.org)
  Connects donated hearing aids to individuals who need them, including seniors.

6. Check with Local Audiologists and Hearing Clinics

Some hearing aid providers offer payment plans, senior discounts, or sliding scale fees based on your income. Others may have refurbished or demo hearing aids available for much less than brand new ones.

It’s always worth asking about options before assuming you have to pay full price.

7. Medicare Advantage Plans

Traditional Medicare does not cover hearing aids, but many Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans do offer hearing benefits, including coverage for hearing aids and exams. If you’re on a Medicare Advantage plan, contact your provider and ask exactly what’s covered.

If you’re not sure what plan you have, your local SHIP counselor (State Health Insurance Assistance Program) can help. They offer free help for seniors navigating Medicare and hearing aid coverage.

Website: shiphelp.org
Or call your local Area Agency on Aging.

Lastly, hearing better shouldn’t be a luxury. Whether you need help paying for a hearing test, finding an affordable pair of hearing aids, or just figuring out where to start, there are programs and people in Kentucky ready to help.

Ask your doctor, reach out to local groups, and don’t give up. Better hearing means better living, and you deserve that.