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Best hearing aids for seniors in 2024, according to experts and testers
Hearing loss is a challenging and frustrating issue that can impact daily life, relationships, and mental health. The likelihood of hearing loss increases with age, and in the United States, around half of people in their sixties and 80% of those aged 85 or older have hearing loss that affects their daily communication. However, younger people can also experience hearing loss, with about 15.5% of those over 20 being affected, especially if your profession increases the risk of damage. The best hearing aids can improve the ability to hear and filter background noise for clearer communication in loud environments.
Jabra Enhance Select 300
Best overall hearing aid
Oticon Real
Best prescription hearing aid overall
Eargo 7
Best for mild to moderate hearing loss
Lexie B2 Plus
Best for customer support
Phonak Lyric
Best invisible in-ear hearing aid
Signia Styletto AX
Best over-the-ear hearing aid
Starkey Genesis AI
Best customizable hearing aid
Phonak Slim
Best Bluetooth-capable hearing aid
Widex Moment
Best hearing aid sound quality
“Exposure to loud noises over time can damage the structures that transmit sound signals to the brain. These structures cannot be repaired and tend to worsen with time, causing varying degrees of hearing loss,” explains Amanda Cooper, a licensed hearing aid specialist. If you are in construction, music, law enforcement or truck driving, hearing aids can help you hear co-workers amongst the busy, loud noises that come with your job.
What's more, older adults at high risk of dementia can experience a nearly 50% reduction in the rate of cognitive decline over a three-year period with the help of hearing aids, according to research funded by the National Institutes of Health. And since the inner ear helps with maintaining balance people with hearing loss are 2.4 times more likely to suffer from falls — a danger that hearing aids can prevent by up to 50%.
Despite the prevalence of hearing loss, it’s consistently undertreated. Only 30% of adults over the age of 70 use hearing aids. Luckily, new technology and sleeker designs have made hearing aids more stylish in recent years. On top of that, in 2022, the FDA authorized over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids for adults with mild-to-moderate hearing loss, making them cheaper and more accessible than ever. While OTC hearing aids offer an easier, more convenient option, prescription hearing aids are recommended for those with severe hearing loss.
Choosing the best hearing aids depends on the degree and type of hearing loss, your lifestyle, budget, desired features, and preferred design. Some people require prescription hearing aids, while others will do just fine with over-the-counter options. To help you determine what's best for you, AOL spoke with its panel of hearing experts, ranging from ear nose and throat doctors (ENTS), audiologists and hearing aid specialists about what to look for and avoid with each and who would benefit from each type. We then researched over 50 different hearing aids and subsequently settled on nine stand-out hearing aid options based on style, comfort, sound quality, price and professional assistance available.
Best hearing aid for seniors overall
Cost: $1,495-$1,695 | Covered by Insurance: Reimbursement available | FSA/HSA Eligible: Yes | Type of hearing aid: Receiver in canal (RIC) | Battery Type: Rechargeable | Remote/App customization: Yes
Jabra Enhance offers four OTC hearing aids, but the Select 300 stands out thanks to its discreet design and impressive sound quality.
Available in five different colors (Sparkling Silver, Warm Grey, Champagne, Gold and Bronze), the Select 300 is incredibly small and discreet. Described by the company as a “mini,” it’s smaller than a paperclip and has a slim, nearly invisible design. It’s a receiver-in-canal (RIC) style hearing aid, meaning the hearing aid is worn behind the ear with the microphone attached to a nearly invisible wire that allows it to be discreetly hidden in the canopy of the ear.
In terms of sound quality, Jabra Enhance is the best you can get without a prescription. Using advanced technology, the Select 300 is designed to prioritize speech and reduce background noise to help you hear one-on-one conversations better, even in a noisy environment. On top of that, it has Bluetooth capabilities, including hands-free calling and music streaming. It’s worth noting that the hands-free calling feature only works for iOS users with an iPhone 11 or newer. In addition, some Android users might require an extra accessory for Bluetooth features.
There are two Select 300 options to choose from: premium, which costs $1,795, or basic, which costs $1,595. The premium package offers a three-year warranty as well as three years of follow-up care and remote adjustments from the audiology team. The premium package also offers a fully customizable hearing aid, whereas the basic package is pre-programmed with three hearing profiles to choose from.
- 100-day trial period
- Premium package includes access to audiologists
- Advanced customization options with premium package
- Hands-free calling only available for iPhone 11 and newer
- Only suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss
- Requires smartphone or tablet
Other top hearing aids for seniors we recommend for 2024
Cost: $4,000–$6,000 | Covered by Insurance: Depends on the provider | FSA/HSA Eligible: Yes | Type of hearing aid: Receiver in canal (RIC) or Behind the ear (BTE) | Battery Type: Disposable and Rechargeable | Remote/App customization: Yes
Oticon is one of the top hearing aid companies in the world thanks to its cutting-edge technology, innovative research and dedication to sound quality. The Oticon Real is designed to support the way your brain naturally interprets sound. It has an on-board Deep Neural Network (DNN) – a form of machine learning – that was trained using 12 million real-life sounds. The end result is a hearing aid with a more natural, open sound experience. Building on previous models, the Real offers two new features for an even better hearing experience:
- Sudden Sound Stabilizer – reduces the sound of both soft and loud sudden noises to reduce disruptions
- Wind and Handling Stabilizer – minimizes distracting noises that come from handling hearing aids (such as your hair or glasses touching them) and wind
The Oticon Real is an over-the-ear hearing aid that comes in two styles: behind-the-ear (BTE) with the receiver in canal (RIC) or behind-the-ear where the hearing aid hooks over the top of your ear and rests behind it with the microphone attached to the hearing aid. This style does not have a wire that fits in your ear canal. RIC devices are generally considered more powerful and work best for those with more severe to profound hearing loss.
The hearing aids come in nine colors to choose from: Chroma Grey, Steel Grey, Grey Silver, Silver, Chestnut Brown, Olive Green, Hear Pink, Diamond Black and Terracotta.
There are a total of four different styles and battery combinations available:
- Rechargeable BTE
- Rechargeable RIC
- Disposable battery BTE
- Disposable battery RIC
Each model is available in three performance levels (1, 2 or 3) which offer a different level of sound processing.
Rechargeable versions come with either a desktop charger or a portable SmartCharger. Either way, you’ll get about 24 hours of power on a single charge.
- Good for tinnitus
- Multiple styles, colors, and battery options available
- Deep Neural Network technology
- More expensive than other prescription brands
Cost: $1990-$2,950, depending on retailer | Availability: Over-the-counter | Covered by Insurance: Yes | FSA/HSA Eligible: Yes | Type of hearing aid: Completely-in-canal (CIC) | Battery Type: Rechargeable | Remote/App customization: Yes
Eargo offers high-quality, over-the-counter hearing aids best suited for those with mild to moderate hearing loss.
The brand's latest model, the Eargo 7, is a nearly invisible, completely-in-canal hearing aid with self-fitting technology. Although they’re pricier than other OTC brands, Eargo has a prescription-level sound quality. It uses a feature called Sound Adjust+ that automatically adjusts to your environment, reduces unnecessary background noise and helps you hear speech more clearly.
The Eargo 7 also offers lifetime support from hearing professionals. Customer care is available six days a week, from Monday to Saturday.
- Discreet, virtually invisible design
- Lifetime virtual support
- Self-fitting
- More expensive than other OTC brands
- No Bluetooth streaming
Cost: $899 | Availability: Over-the-counter | Covered by Insurance: No | FSA/HSA Eligible: Yes | Type of hearing aid: Receiver in canal (RIC) | Battery Type: Rechargeable | Remote/App customization: Yes
We chose the Lexie B2 Plus hearing aid by Bose as our pick for best customer service, thanks to the brand’s lifetime support policy. The Lexie B2 is available over-the-counter for adults 18 and older with mild to moderate hearing loss. It’s a self-fitting hearing aid, which means that the settings are programmed for your specific hearing needs using the app. The app also allows you to connect easily to Lexie experts who can offer support via video, chat or phone. While some OTC hearing aid brands give you a set time for free support, Lexie offers ongoing, lifetime support. Customer service is also available seven days a week.
- Free ongoing professional support
- Customer service available 7-days a week
- Affordable OTC option
- Streaming not compatible with Android
- Only available in gray
Cost: $3,000-$6,000 for annual subscription | Availability: Prescription | Covered by Insurance: Depends on provider | FSA/HSA Eligible: Yes | Type of hearing aid: Invisible | Battery Type: None – once battery runs out, a new hearing aid will be inserted by a provider | Remote/App customization: No
If an over-the-ear style like Oticon isn’t your cup of tea, there are other, more discreet options. In the ear (ITE) hearing aids typically come in three forms: low profile (either full or half shell), in the canal (ITC) or completely in the canal (CIC). Then there’s the Phonak Lyric.
Unlike other ITE hearing aids, the Phonak Lyric is 100% invisible. It’s an extended-wear hearing aid that’s placed deep in the ear, near the eardrum, by a trained hearing professional. And unlike other hearing aids, it’s meant to be worn 24/7 for several months at a time. That means you won’t have to worry about charging it, replacing the batteries, or the hassle of daily removal. Instead, when the battery dies, you’ll visit your provider for a replacement.
The Lyric can last up to four months before replacement is necessary, but of course, individual needs can vary. While that means you may need to visit your audiologist more often, the process only takes a few minutes. Rather than paying for each replacement individually, the Lyric is sold on a subscription basis.
There are seven sizes available, ranging from XXS to XXL and subscriptions can be either one or two years in duration. Since it’s worn 24/7, you can shower, exercise and sleep with it. However, it’s worth noting that it's not fully waterproof, so underwater swimming and diving should be avoided.
- 100% invisible due to placement
- Designed to be worn 24/7
- Provides clear, natural sound
- No Bluetooth or remote adjustments
- Must be replaced by professional every 2-3 months
- Not suitable for severe or profound hearing loss
Cost: $2,500-$5,500 | Availability: Prescription | Covered by Insurance: Depends on provider | FSA/HSA Eligible: Yes | Type of hearing aid: Receiver in canal (RIC) | Battery Type: Rechargeable | Remote/App customization: Yes
Generally speaking, over-the-ear hearing aids are more powerful than completely-in-the-canal (CIC) options, but they’re also larger and more noticeable. The Styletto AX, though, proves to be a stylish choice. It features an ultra-slim RIC design for a discreet, comfortable fit. On top of the sleek, modern appearance, you can choose from 12 color options.
The Styletto AX uses Signia’s Augmented Experience (AX) platform, which uses a split processing technology to separate speech from background noises to help you hear a conversation better. Other key features include “Own Voice Processing,” which helps improve the sound of your voice as you speak, Auto EchoShield, which helps create cleaner, crisper sounds, and an upgraded eWindScreen to reduce wind sounds.
The Styletto AX is a prescription hearing aid suitable for moderate to severe hearing loss. It’s available in five different performance levels, which offer between 16 and 48 sound processing channels. There is also a Contralateral Routing of Signals (CROS) version for those with single-sided profound hearing loss. Bluetooth is available for both iPhone and Android users, but only iPhone users can take advantage of the hands-free calling feature. Unlike other BTE devices, though, there are no manual controls to adjust volume or sound settings. Instead, adjustments must be made using the Signia app.
- Slim, lightweight design
- Pocket-size portable charger
- Own Voice Processing technology
- No onboard controls
- Only offers BTE styles
Cost: $2,000-$6,000 | Availability: Prescription | Covered by Insurance: Depends on provider | FSA/HSA Eligible: Yes | Type of hearing aid: Invisible in canal (IIC), Completely in canal (CIC), In the canal (ITC), In the ear (ITC), Receiver in canal (RIC) & Mini receiver in canal (mRIC) | Battery Type: Disposable & Rechargeable
Starkey is the leader when it comes to custom-molded hearing aids, so it’s no wonder the Genesis AI is our top choice for best customizable hearing aid. The Genesis AI is available in eight different styles, including receiver in canal (RIC), in the ear (ITE), completely in canal (CIC) and invisible in canal (IIC) fit options.
RIC – There are three receiver-in-canal models that come in seven colors, four technology levels and can be either rechargeable or disposable battery-operated. All RIC options are Bluetooth-enabled. One of the RIC models also offers CROS for single-sided hearing loss.
ITE – There are two in-the-ear models that come in six colors and four technology levels. These options are rechargeable, waterproof and Bluetooth-enabled.
CIC – There are two completely in-canal models that come in six colors and four technology levels. The CIC models use a disposable battery and can be either Bluetooth-enabled or non-wireless.
IIC – The invisible-in-canal model is the most limited version. It has a disposable battery, no wireless capabilities and is available in five colors and four technology levels.
The Genesis AI also offers a ton of innovative features. “These hearing aids were completely reimagined from the inside out,” says Dr. Fabry, the Chief Hearing Health Officer at Starkey. Featuring the all-new Neuro Processor, it “mimics the way the human brain functions to address the top drivers of hearing aid performance: natural sound quality, speech intelligibility in the presence of background noise, comfort for loud sounds and the ability to determine the direction of sound.”
Additionally, the Genesis AI was designed with your overall health and well-being in mind, Dr. Fabry explains. “It features onboard sensors that can track physical activity, social engagement and provide fall detection alerts.”
- Has both app and onboard controls
- Up to 13 color choices for some models
- Fastest sound processing on market
- Higher cost than other brands
Cost: $2,000-$4,500 | Availability: Prescription | Covered by Insurance: Depends on provider | FSA/HSA Eligible: Yes | Type of hearing aid: Behind the ear (BTE) | Battery Type: Rechargeable | Remote/App customization: Yes
For those looking for a high-quality, Bluetooth-enabled hearing aid, the Phonak Slim is the best option on the market. It has universal connectivity, meaning you can pair it with any smartphone, tablet or TV. In fact, you can pair it with up to eight devices at a time!
Another major benefit is the true hands-free calling feature. While many hearing aids are more geared towards iOS, the Phonak Slim allows both Android and iPhone users to make hands-free phone calls. The Slim also has onboard tap control. The integrated motion sensor lets you use Bluetooth features by double-tapping on your ear.
Like other Phonak hearing aids, the Slim has strong sound quality, particularly regarding background noise management and speech clarity. It’s only available in one behind-the-ear style, but as far as RICs go, the Slim stands out for its ergonomic design. It has a unique, seven-degree contour that fits the natural shape of your ear, a serious benefit for anyone who wears glasses or uses an oxygen tank.
- Ergonomic 7-degree angle for contoured fit
- Universal Bluetooth connectivity
- More affordable than other Rx models
- Limited color options
- Lower battery life than other models
Cost: $3,000-$7,000 | Availability: Prescription | Covered by Insurance: Depends on provider | FSA/HSA Eligible: Yes | Type of hearing aid: Behind the ear (BTE), Receiver in canal (RIC) & In the ear (ITE) | Battery Type: Disposable & Rechargeable | Remote/App customization: Yes
Widex is often considered the favorite hearing aid brand among musicians, which makes sense considering that it has the fastest processing time of any hearing aid company. Faster processing speed equals higher sound quality. That’s why the Widex Moment is our pick for the best hearing aid for sound quality.
The Widex Moment is a prescription hearing aid that uses ZeroDelay technology to process sound in .5 milliseconds. For comparison, most high-quality hearing aids have a processing speed of between 5 and 8 milliseconds. The end result is a smoother, more natural sound experience. One reviewer noted the “uncanny clarity” of the hearing aids, saying, “I could hear upper registers more clearly and crisply.”
Other key features include Bluetooth capability, hands-free calling for iPhone users, and an easy-to-use app with a “find my hearing aid” feature. There are nine models to choose from with BTE, RIC and ITE styles. The BTE and RIC models come in 13 colors, including Shocking Pink, Mediterranean Turquoise and Sporty Red.
- Has both app and onboard controls
- Up to 13 color choices for some models
- Fastest sound processing on market
- Requires extra accessory for remote adjustments
- Higher cost than other brands
Factors to consider when choosing hearing aids for seniors
Before choosing a hearing aid, there are several factors to take into account:
Types of hearing aids: There are five primary types of hearing aid styles to consider depending on your preference and what works best for your lifestyle.
Behind the ear (BTE) hearing aids are worn on the outside of your ear. This type of hearing aid hooks over the top of your ear and rests behind it. BTE devices are generally considered more powerful and work best for those with more severe hearing loss.
Receiver in canal (RIC) hearing aids are similar to BTE styles but offer a more discreet option. This type of hearing aid is worn behind the ear with the speaker inside the ear canal.
In the ear (ITE) hearing aids sit within the outer portion of the ear canal rather than outside the ear.
In the canal (ITC) hearing aids are similar to ITE but they’re smaller and sit more deeply in the ear canal.
Completely in canal (CIC) hearing aids are the most discreet option. They fit entirely inside the ear canal, making them nearly invisible from the outside. This kind of hearing aid is only suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss.
Cost: Hearing aids aren’t cheap, so it’s a good idea to consider your budget. Insurance coverage for hearing aids can vary widely depending on your provider, but many plans don’t cover OTC options. Even if you don’t have coverage, you may be able to use a flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA).
Prescription or OTC: Prescription hearing aids are, of course, only available through a licensed hearing health provider, so they require a trip to an audiologist. They’re also more expensive than over-the-counter options, but they’re also more advanced and tailored to your individual needs.
Set-up: Most prescription hearing aids can be set up in-office by your audiologist. Over-the-counter options, on the other hand, are set up at home, but many companies offer assistance, either with an app or by phone.
User controls: Some hearing aids have on-board controls that allow you to make adjustments manually by pushing a button. Others, however, can only be adjusted using an app or a remote control.
Extra features: Popular features to consider include Bluetooth capability, hands-free calling features, fall detection, rechargeability, and artificial intelligence.
How we chose
In order to find the best hearing aids, we consulted audiologists and hearing specialists to determine what influences hearing loss, how it can be corrected, and what to look for. We then researched over 50 different hearing ads from more than 15 companies and rated them based on sound quality, comfort, style options available, cost and additional features.
FAQs
How do hearing aids work?
“Hearing aids work by sampling and collecting sound through tiny microphones,” explains audiologist Dr. Amy Sarow. These sounds are then converted into electrical signals and amplified. While that’s a basic description, there’s a lot more to it, especially with more sophisticated devices.
Before being converted into electrical signals, sounds are analyzed and manipulated using advanced technology. “Sound is filtered into desirable sounds, like speech, and undesirable sounds, like wind and noise,” Dr. Sarow says. Before the sound is amplified and sent to the ear, the processor (or computer program/algorithm) reduces unwanted background noises and enhances speech. “This process happens continuously, hundreds of times per second, to provide a clearer sound, making speech easier to understand and requiring less listening effort.”
What’s the difference between OTC and prescription hearing aids?
Over-the-counter , audiologist and founder of BLUEMOTH Hearing in a store without a medical exam. Prescription hearing aids, on the other hand, require an audiologist and hearing exam. They’re also only available through a licensed professional.
“I often compare OTC devices to the readers/cheater glasses that can be bought at pharmacies. They are self-fit and self-selected by the consumer,” says Dr. Melanie Hecker. While they can be a good option for those with mild to moderate hearing loss who want something more affordable, they’re not the best. “For the highest quality treatment for hearing loss, you’ll need a prescription hearing aid,” she says. Not only are prescription options more technologically advanced, but they also have the benefit of being professionally fitted.
Does Medicare cover hearing aids?
Unfortunately, Medicare doesn’t cover hearing aids, exams or fittings for hearing aids. That said, most Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans offer some coverage, but the exact amount varies by plan. Similarly, private insurance is not required to cover hearing aids, but some plans do.
How do I know if I need a hearing aid?
Hearing loss is typically gradual and can be difficult to notice at first, but early signs include difficulty hearing in loud or crowded places, when speaking on the phone, or when someone isn’t facing you. Higher-pitched sounds are usually the first to go, too, so having trouble hearing female voices, children or the doorbell is another indication.
If you start to notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to see an audiologist. “I cannot emphasize the importance of getting a hearing test enough,” says Dr. Fabry, who explains that hearing loss is often linked to depression, loneliness, social isolation, cognitive decline and even dementia.
Are hearing aids easy to set up?
It depends on the hearing aid. One of the biggest benefits of prescription hearing aids is that they’re set up by an audiologist or hearing aid specialist. OTC options, however, will need to be set up at home, but many companies have an app to walk you through the process.
Do cheap hearing aids work?
Yes, but not as well as high-quality prescription hearing aids. “Most are more basic amplifiers that aren’t properly calibrated for the individual’s hearing loss,” says Dr. Hecker. “So, it will make things louder, but may not make things clearer – which is most people’s ultimate goal.”
According to Dr. Fabry, hearing loss isn’t the same for everyone, so neither is the right solution. Cheap hearing aids may work for some people, while others will need a more advanced device. “An OTC option doesn’t come with the guidance or expertise of a hearing professional,” he says, adding that it’s a good idea to make sure there’s a warranty, trial period or return policy in place. “My biggest advice is to ask questions and do your homework.”
If I am only experiencing hearing loss in one ear, do I still need 2 hearing aids?
The short answer here is yes. Having two hearing aids is better than one even if you’re only experiencing hearing loss in one ear. That’s because your overall handle on sounds and conversations is increased when you have two hearing aids working in tandem. Our brains work through what is called binaural hearing, meaning we use both ears to comprehend conversations and communication overall by allowing the two hearing aids to communicate with each other and share information.
Meet our experts
Lenny Powell, DO, CMD, specializing in geriatric medicine at Rowan Medicine
Ruth Reisman, MD, founder of Urban Hearing
Carissa Wentland, DO; pediatric otolaryngologist
Amanda Cooper, licensed hearing aid specialist
Dr. Amy Sarow, clinical audiologist
Dr. Dave Fabry, Chief Hearing Health Officer at Starkey
Dr. Melanie Hecker, audiologist and founder of BLUEMOTH Hearing