Countless hearing aids, both over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription, are available to consumers. To cut through the noise and assist in your search, the Forbes Health editorial team consulted multiple audiologists for their top recommendations. Additionally, two editors traveled to Western Washington University in Bellingham, Washington, for product testing in the university’s hearing lab and focus group testing with five participants. Star ratings were solely determined by the Forbes Health editorial team, based on data like starting price and product features that are typically important to hearing aid users, as well as laboratory findings and focus group participant feedback and ratings.
The top rated hearing aids, according to our list of best hearing aids, are the Elehear Beyond hearing aids, which are noted for their budget-friendly cost, user-friendly app and sound quality. However, the best way to find hearing aids that are suited for specific needs is to work with an audiologist who can administer a hearing test, help diagnose any degree of hearing loss and make recommendations for the most effective technology.
The best hearing aid for seniors is the one that best fits their hearing health needs, lifestyle and budget. It’s important for an older adult to consult with an audiologist to ensure they find the hearing aid that is most effective for their degree of hearing loss, and one they can realistically use on a daily basis. For example, a rechargeable hearing aid may be a better choice for an older adult with dexterity issues, as some hearing aids require batteries that can be small and difficult to replace.
A higher priced hearing aid may include more advanced technological features, which can improve a user’s experience. Whether a hearing aid with added features, such as Bluetooth capabilities, is worth the cost depends on the needs and preferences of the user.
“The lifespan of a hearing aid varies greatly depending upon proper use and care of the device and environmental factors, such as living by the water or engaging in a lot of outdoor activities where your hearing aids are exposed to the elements,” says Dr. Banks, adding that the average lifespan ranges from four to five years. “However, some people may need new hearing aids every 2 years, while others can use the same pair for seven years.”
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