As we approach Thanksgiving, we are often reminded of the emotion and beauty surrounding the act of giving. Thoughtful giving is a wonderful human trait that can brighten the lives of the giver and the recipient in sometimes truly transformative ways. I am consistently touched when we are contacted by an individual who wants to donate used hearing technology to someone in need and how that donation can help yet another individual create memories. Here are some reasons why you should consider donating your or a loved one’s used hearing aids as your act of giving this year:
1. Health and Cognitive Benefits:
Untreated hearing loss has been linked to various health issues, including cognitive decline, social isolation, and depression. By donating hearing aids, especially to those who might not otherwise seek help, we contribute to the overall health and well-being of the recipients.
2. Community Building:
When you show an act of kindness, it can inspire others to consider the impact they can make through small acts of generosity. Be the reason why someone can be more deeply involved in their community and continue the cycle of giving back.
3. Recycling with Purpose:
Rather than allowing old devices to gather dust in drawers or become hard to break-down material in landfills, refurbishing and repurposing hearing aids helps reduce electronic waste.
Hearing Aid Project is a one-of-a-kind collaboration created by Hearing Charities of America (HCOA). They take used hearing aids or financial donations to assist low-income individuals.
Give Hear offers a variety of hearing health services and have served thousands of patients in their 10 years of service. They receive used hearing aids for refurbishment and giving to those in need.
The Lion’s Club is represented in many communities to offer humanitarian services and grants. Contact your local Lion's Club to check if they take and distribute used hearing aids to neighbors in need.
Sertoma's mission is to improve the quality of life for those at risk or impacted by hearing loss through education and support. Contact the organization to see if they are currently receiving used hearing aids.
Check with your local or state university to see if hearing aids could be used for educational or refurbishment programs.
Contact a local speech and hearing clinic to see if they have refurbishment programs.
The Hearing Industries Association is the trusted voice on hearing health care for product innovation, public policy, patient safety and education.
