Devices will be given out on a first-come, first-served basis. Funds for the program come from the American Rescue Act. Information about how to obtain a free hearing device is available at AccessHEARS.com.
To be eligible to receive a free hearing device, those interested must:
- Be a County resident aged 60 or older.
- Have perceived mild-to-moderate hearing loss.
- Have an annual income below 250 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines ($36,450 for a single individual).
Over-the-counter hearing aids became available in 2022. While hearing aids are now more accessible than ever, significant barriers exist to navigating the market and the devices themselves. The average cost to purchase one of these devices over the counter is $220, which can be prohibitive for seniors on fixed or low incomes.
Founded by physicians and leading hearing experts and entrepreneurs at the Johns Hopkins University, Access HEARS delivers services directly to the community, offering its clients a low-cost, in-person or virtual service delivery.
Access HEARS staff also teaches individuals how to use over-the-counter hearing aids with the goal of supporting healthy aging and continued engagement with their family and communities. Clients receive ongoing support throughout the first 12 months to ensure their success.
To learn more about Access HEARS and to inquire about receiving a free device, visit its website or call 410-929-0394.
