The Manitoba government is creating a new $12.6-million grant program that will assist eligible older Manitobans experiencing hearing loss to cover the expense of testing, fitting and purchasing new hearing aids.

“Our government recognizes hearing loss as priority concern for seniors and with this grant more Manitoba seniors who require hearing aids will have the financial means to access them regardless of income level,” said Seniors and Long-term Care Minister Scott Johnston. “Hearing aids provide valuable benefits to improve quality of life in a number of important ways such as fully participating with family, friends and co-workers, while also avoiding the isolation that can be associated with hearing loss.”

According to Department of Health statistics, nearly 4,000 seniors over the age of 65 reported hearing loss during a physician visit in 2021 and roughly 25 per cent of seniors have hearing loss at a level that would benefit from hearing aid use.

The hearing aid grant of up to $2,000 is available to all Manitobans who meet the following eligibility criteria:

  • age 65 or over;
  • family income below $80,000 in the previous year;
  • have documented hearing loss; and
  • have been prescribed hearing aids by an audiologist or otolaryngologist.

“For those who are hearing impaired something as simple as a hearing aid can make all the difference in quality of life,” said Susan Sader, executive director, Good Neighbours Active Living Centre. “The Manitoba government is to be commended for listening to Manitobans who struggle with hearing loss and for providing a program that will help many stay active and engaged in the community.”

Untreated hearing loss is linked with decreased word recognition, difficulty communicating, increased risk of falls, social isolation, cognitive decline and dementia.

“We have received many heartbreaking emails and phone calls from seniors or their caregivers asking for help because they need hearing aids but could not afford them,” said Jo-anne Jones, president, Canadian Hard of Hearing Association Manitoba Chapter. “This new grant is a great step in ensuring many more Manitoba seniors will have the hearing aids they need and better healthier lifestyles as a result.”

The Manitoba government will begin accepting applications later this spring.

The new program aligns with strategic priorities including financial security and safe, inclusive and accessible communities, which are highlighted in Manitoba, A Great Place to Age: Provincial Seniors Strategy.