The Best Hearing Aids for Seniors

by Emily JohnsonNovember 27, 20246 minutes read

Finding the perfect hearing aid as a senior can feel overwhelming with so many options on the market, each promising to improve your hearing and quality of life. The best hearing aids not only enhance sound clarity but also prioritize comfort, ease of use, and affordability. Whether you’re looking for advanced features, sleek designs, or budget-friendly options, there’s a device tailored to meet your needs.

Signia Pure Charge&Go IX – Effortlessly Easy to Use

If simplicity is your top priority, Signia Pure Charge&Go IX is a standout choice. This device, a trusted option among older adults, maintains the classic behind-the-ear (BTE) design, emphasizing practicality over flashy aesthetics.

What truly sets this model apart is the prescription-based fitting process. With the help of a professional audiologist, the device is tailored specifically to your hearing needs, ensuring maximum comfort and precision. This feature is a game-changer for those unfamiliar with self-installing hearing aids or adjusting settings via an app.

Additionally, Signia delivers an impressive 36-hour battery life, allowing users to enjoy uninterrupted hearing across extended periods without frequent recharging. While pricing depends on your prescription provider, the personalized care and expertise make it well worth the investment for older adults who value ease and reliability.

Jabra Enhance Select 300 – The Ultimate in Comfort

For those who seek unparalleled comfort, look no further than the Jabra Enhance Select 300. This non-prescription BTE model combines premium functionality with exceptional wearability, remaining comfortable even after hours of use.

Though priced higher at approximately $1,695, the Enhance Select 300 justifies its cost through outstanding audio quality that delivers crystal-clear sound in diverse environments. The intuitive smartphone app elevates user experience, featuring easy volume adjustments and four environment programs for customized sound settings.

What’s more, the 30-hour battery life ensures this device supports your active lifestyle. If comfort and quality are your priorities and you can accommodate the price, Jabra Enhance Select 300 may be the best hearing aid to meet your needs.

Lexie B2 Plus – The Most Budget-Friendly Option

Affordability without compromising quality—this perfectly describes the Lexie B2 Plus. Designed for older adults with mild to moderate hearing loss, this hearing aid stands out as an excellent cost-effective solution.

Even for those less tech-savvy, Lexie’s dedicated app simplifies setup with clear, easy-to-follow instructions. Once operational, users can adjust volume, tweak bass and treble preferences, and balance sound between left and right ears with ease.

With 10 listening modes, this device adapts seamlessly to different environments, from noisy gatherings to quiet reading sessions. Though its 18-hour battery life is shorter compared to others on this list, its affordability and user-friendly design make Lexie B2 Plus a fantastic choice for budget-conscious individuals seeking reliable performance.

Sony CRE-E10 Hearing Aids – Modern Earbud-Style Design

For those prioritizing aesthetics alongside functionality, the Sony CRE-E10 Hearing Aids offer a sleek earbud-inspired design. While slightly larger in size, they bring a contemporary look to hearing aids, appealing to users who prefer something stylish and discreet.

The device is ideal for independent users, thanks to its built-in hearing test that allows for self-tuning without professional assistance. While the larger size may cause mild discomfort after prolonged use, its 26-hour battery life provides sufficient power for all-day wear.

Sony’s simple app interface further adds to its appeal, making it a breeze to adjust settings and optimize sound quality. If you’re seeking a modern design paired with reliable functionality, this might be your perfect match.

Can I Get Senior Hearing Aids Through Medicare?

Hearing aids are not typically covered by Medicare, meaning you may need to bear the full cost of the device and associated exams. However, some private insurance plans or Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C) might include hearing-related benefits. It’s a good idea to check with your healthcare provider to explore your options.

In addition to insurance, there are alternative ways to reduce the financial burden of purchasing hearing aids:

Financing Options

Many hearing aid companies offer financing plans, similar to car loans. These plans allow you to open a line of credit through your hearing care provider and make monthly payments, often for up to three years. Keep in mind that good credit is usually required.

State-Mandated Coverage

Some states require private health insurance companies to cover hearing aids. Additionally, certain insurers offer hearing-focused purchasing programs. Take the time to shop around for the best option.

Medicaid Assistance

Depending on your financial situation, you may qualify for Medicaid assistance. States like California and Massachusetts mandate hearing aid coverage under their Medicaid programs.

FSA/HSA Accounts

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA), available through employer-sponsored health plans, can often be used to pay for hearing aids. Check with your hearing aid provider to see if they accept these payment methods.

Nonprofit Assistance

If hearing aids are still unaffordable, local and national nonprofit organizations may provide financial aid by covering part or all of the costs. These programs are often tailored to help individuals with limited incomes access the hearing devices they need.

How Do You Buy and Get Started With Hearing Aids?

Purchasing and using hearing aids for the first time may seem daunting, but following these steps can make the process smooth and efficient:

Assess Your Hearing Needs:

Schedule a hearing test with an audiologist to determine the extent of your hearing loss.

Decide whether you need a prescription hearing aid or an OTC option based on the test results and your budget.

Research and Compare Models:

Consider your lifestyle and preferences. Do you need a discreet design, extended battery life, or customizable features?

Compare reputable brands like Signia, Jabra, and Lexie for their unique features and price points.

Purchase Your Hearing Aids:

For prescription devices: Work with your audiologist to select a model. The fitting and programming are typically included in the purchase price.

For OTC options: Purchase directly from retail stores or online platforms. Be sure to review return policies, as adjusting to new hearing aids may take time.

Set Up and Customize:

If professionally fitted, your audiologist will fine-tune the settings to match your hearing profile.

For OTC aids, follow the manufacturer’s instructions or use the accompanying app to customize sound settings.

Get Used to Your Hearing Aids:

Wear your hearing aids consistently to allow your brain to adjust to the new sounds.

Gradually increase the time you wear them each day if they feel overwhelming initially.

Regular Maintenance and Follow-ups:

Clean your hearing aids regularly to ensure they work properly and last longer.

Schedule follow-up visits with your audiologist (if applicable) to make adjustments or address concerns.

Utilize Support Tools:

Many hearing aids come with smartphone apps for easy adjustments.

Use customer service lines or support teams for troubleshooting.