Audibility Benefits Everyone Helps the Lehigh Valley Hear Again
Hearing loss is an issue that affects millions of Americans, including many in the Lehigh Valley. Studies have shown that untreated hearing loss is linked to cognitive decline, social isolation, depression, and even an increased risk of mortality. Despite the profound impact on quality of life, many individuals, particularly those in low-income households, struggle to access hearing aids due to high costs and limited insurance coverage. This is why Audibility Benefits Everyone began.
Founded by Dr. Jennifer Stinson, Audibility Benefits Everyone’s mission is “to improve the lives of Lehigh Valley residents by assisting them with appropriate amplification for hearing loss.” The program’s primary focus is to support underprivileged individuals who cannot afford hearing aids, aiming to help them regain communication abilities and restore their quality of life. In the program’s first year, the goal is to fit 12 individuals in the Lehigh Valley with hearing aids. This will not only benefit the individuals receiving hearing aids but also improve the lives of their families and caregivers.
Beyond this, the program has long-term plans for growth. In the future, the founders aim to raise awareness in the Lehigh Valley community about the importance of hearing health, and they hope to establish a model that allows their current patients to contribute to the cause by donating toward the foundation. They also plan to approach other local audiology practices to encourage them to donate time, money, or resources to the cause.
Both Dr. Stinson and Dr. Klechner have shared numerous success stories from their work, including moments when patients in nursing homes were brought to tears after being fitted with hearing aids and finally able to hear their loved ones and caretakers. These moments highlight the deep emotional and relational impact of improved hearing. However, the program does face challenges, specifically identifying the individuals with the greatest financial need while managing the program’s limited resources.
To Help Support this organization and the clients they serve please visit Audibility Benefits Everyone – Humanitarian Social Innovations.