Free hearing aids and tests now available for local seniors through new community program
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At The GrayVine, we love sharing news that makes a difference—especially when it’s happening right in our readers’ own communities.
This summer, a special initiative is bringing better hearing—and brighter connections—to older adults in select towns across the region.
If you or someone you love has struggled to hear conversations clearly, this could be a life-changing opportunity worth looking into.
Getting older comes with plenty of challenges, but staying connected doesn’t have to be one of them.
That’s the goal behind a generous new program from the EMC Health Foundation, working in partnership with Costco and the Turlock Chamber of Commerce Foundation.
Together, they’re offering free hearing tests and hearing aids to eligible seniors in the region.
Jeffrey Lewis, President and CEO of the EMC Health Foundation, put it simply: “Growing old is not for sissies.”
But with the right support, aging can still be filled with joy, independence, and meaningful conversations—and this program aims to make that possible.
Hearing loss is more common than many people realize.
The National Council on Aging estimates that one in three adults aged 65–74 experience some degree of hearing loss, and nearly half of those over 75 are affected.
It’s not just about needing the TV turned up louder. Hearing difficulties can lead to isolation, confusion, and even health complications.
Studies show that untreated hearing loss may affect balance, memory, and mood.
“The compound impact can be devastating,” Lewis says. But hearing aids can make a big difference—restoring sound, communication, and confidence.
This is not the first time the EMC Health Foundation has offered hearing assistance, and their efforts have already helped over 90 seniors.
This year, they hope to reach even more people.
Here’s how to participate:
This program isn’t just about equipment—it’s about improving quality of life.
Many seniors avoid getting hearing help because of cost or stigma, but this initiative removes those barriers with dignity and care.
“This partnership represents an important step in expanding service lines to meet critical needs in the community,” Lewis says.
By tapping into local resources and charitable giving, the program supports seniors in staying active, engaged, and independent.
If you don’t qualify but know someone who might, consider passing the information along.
A simple conversation could lead to a big change in someone’s daily life.
Let’s help bring the sounds of life back into focus—one person, one hearing test, and one kind word at a time.
Read next: Could that familiar remedy be riskier than you think? Experts say millions may be overlooking this health concern
Have you or someone in your family faced hearing loss? Have you tried hearing aids, or are you thinking about it now? We’d love to hear your experiences, questions, and advice in the comments.
Better hearing can transform daily life—from clearer conversations to deeper connections. Your story might be the encouragement someone else needs to take the first step!
This summer, a special initiative is bringing better hearing—and brighter connections—to older adults in select towns across the region.
If you or someone you love has struggled to hear conversations clearly, this could be a life-changing opportunity worth looking into.
Getting older comes with plenty of challenges, but staying connected doesn’t have to be one of them.
That’s the goal behind a generous new program from the EMC Health Foundation, working in partnership with Costco and the Turlock Chamber of Commerce Foundation.
Together, they’re offering free hearing tests and hearing aids to eligible seniors in the region.
A new community program is helping seniors hear clearly again—at no cost to those who qualify. Image Source: Pexels / Photo By: Kaboompics.com.
Jeffrey Lewis, President and CEO of the EMC Health Foundation, put it simply: “Growing old is not for sissies.”
But with the right support, aging can still be filled with joy, independence, and meaningful conversations—and this program aims to make that possible.
Why hearing matters more than ever
Hearing loss is more common than many people realize.
The National Council on Aging estimates that one in three adults aged 65–74 experience some degree of hearing loss, and nearly half of those over 75 are affected.
It’s not just about needing the TV turned up louder. Hearing difficulties can lead to isolation, confusion, and even health complications.
Studies show that untreated hearing loss may affect balance, memory, and mood.
“The compound impact can be devastating,” Lewis says. But hearing aids can make a big difference—restoring sound, communication, and confidence.
Also read: The surprising reason more seniors are feeling lonely—no one’s talking about it
How the program works—and who qualifies
This is not the first time the EMC Health Foundation has offered hearing assistance, and their efforts have already helped over 90 seniors.
This year, they hope to reach even more people.
Here’s how to participate:
- Who qualifies? Seniors aged 55 and older who live in the foundation’s coverage area—including Newman, Crows Landing, and Gustine—and whose household income is at or below 500% of the federal poverty level.
- What’s included? A free hearing test at Costco, a free hearing aid if needed, and a Costco gift card to assist with the process.
- How to apply? Call the Turlock Chamber Foundation at 209-632-2221 and ask for the hearing aid coordinator. You’ll need to pick up a registration form from their office and bring it to Costco for your test.
Also read: Protect your brain: Are you at risk as US dementia cases set to skyrocket?
A small step that makes a big impact
This program isn’t just about equipment—it’s about improving quality of life.
Many seniors avoid getting hearing help because of cost or stigma, but this initiative removes those barriers with dignity and care.
“This partnership represents an important step in expanding service lines to meet critical needs in the community,” Lewis says.
By tapping into local resources and charitable giving, the program supports seniors in staying active, engaged, and independent.
If you don’t qualify but know someone who might, consider passing the information along.
A simple conversation could lead to a big change in someone’s daily life.
Let’s help bring the sounds of life back into focus—one person, one hearing test, and one kind word at a time.
Read next: Could that familiar remedy be riskier than you think? Experts say millions may be overlooking this health concern
Have you or someone in your family faced hearing loss? Have you tried hearing aids, or are you thinking about it now? We’d love to hear your experiences, questions, and advice in the comments.
Better hearing can transform daily life—from clearer conversations to deeper connections. Your story might be the encouragement someone else needs to take the first step!
