The Better Hearing Institute estimates that 30% of Americans over the age of 60 suffer from some form of hearing loss.
Much of this hearing loss is sensorineural hearing loss than can’t be cured; however, hearing aids can greatly increase the quality of life for those afflicted with hearing loss. By hearing better, these people can be more active, more social, and generally more engaged in their lives. Unfortunately, hearing aids are expensive, sometimes prohibitively so, and are not covered under insurance plans.
So why is Congress taking so long to help?
There are actually two bills currently in talks: The version in the House (H.R. 1646) would call for a provision for a tax credit of up to $500 for each aid, every five years. It would be available for those over 55 or purchasing an aid for a dependent. The Senate version is similar but is without age restriction.
Despite more bi-partisan support than the many similar bills have ever had (66 Democrats and 34 Republicans for the House bill), progress is still excruciatingly slow. You, however, can help: for more information about this important bill, visit the website. You can also write or email your Congressperson detailing why this bill is so important to you. The more people talk about it, the harder it is to ignore.
Be heard. Hear.
Tags: Congress, hearing aids, Politics, Taxes
