Hearing aids have come a long way since their inception. They have evolved into sleek, almost invisible, high-performing mini-computers from being bulky, obtrusive devices. Modern hearing aids amplify sounds, filter out background noise, connect to smartphones, and even track physical activity.?
Best Hearing Aids in 2023: According to Experts
Find the best hearing aids for your needs and budget in this detailed guide. We review both traditional and over-the-counter hearing aids.
Best Hearing Aids
Best Hearing Aids
However, with the vast array of options available, choosing the best hearing aids can be daunting. Hearing aids work by amplifying sound signals to compensate for hearing loss. They capture, amplify, and deliver sound into the ear canal, enabling the user to hear more clearly.?
Today, hearing aids come in various styles, from behind-the-ear (BTE) and in-the-ear (ITE) to in-the-canal (ITC) and completely-in-canal (CIC) models, each with its unique set of features and benefits.
The best hearing aids brands provide various options for different preferences and price points. They invest heavily in research and development to bring groundbreaking technologies to their products.?
Whether it's advanced noise reduction algorithms, wireless connectivity, rechargeable batteries, or tinnitus masking features, the best hearing aids on the market offer solutions to various hearing challenges. In this best hearing aids review, we will learn which brand of hearing aids is best for your needs.
The Best Hearing Aids on the Market
- Jabra Enhance Select ? - Best Hearing Aids Overall
- Audien Atom Pro - Best Invisible Hearing Aids
- MDHearing Volt - Best Rechargeable Hearing Aids
- Eargo 7 - Best OTC Hearing Aids
- Audicus Omni - Best Hearing Aids for Sound Quality
- Oticon Real - Best Bluetooth hearing aids
- Phonak - Best Hearing Aids for Severe Hearing Loss
- Widex Moment Sheer - Best Tinnitus Hearing Aids
- Starkey Evolv AI - Best Hearing Aids With Fall Detection
- Hear.com: Horizon Mini X - Best Hearing Aids for Younger People
1. Jabra Enhance Select 200 - Best Rated Hearing Aid Overall
Pros
- Free hearing evaluation online
- 100-day money-back guarantee
- Three years of help from an audiologist care team
- Free delivery and returns for tinnitus treatment software
Cons
- Only one kind of hearing aid available (receiver-in-canal)
- Not suitable for those with moderate to severe hearing loss
In 2019, Jabra Enhance was introduced by Lively with a team that had great aspirations. Their concept was straightforward - provide all the services of a hearing clinic online. The year 2020 saw an increase in Telehealth advancements, and Jabra (formerly Lively) became one of the most reputable and popular brands in the hearing health category.
Why We Chose Jabra Enhance
Jabra Enhance has been ranked as one of the best hearing aids due to its superior quality, advanced technology, and unwavering customer service. It provides customers with the support of its audiology team, which sets it apart in the market.?
This best rated hearing aid brand is available at a comparatively lower price than other brands. While not all hearing aid companies have an audiology care team, Jabra Enhance offers an online hearing screening and a pre-purchase video consultation with a member of the audiology team.?
Additionally, Jabra Enhance devices can be connected to a smartphone app for easy adjustments. After purchasing Jabra Enhance hearing aids, customers receive support from the audiology team to set up the app and hearing aids.
Furthermore, the audiology team is available for consultations for up to three years to provide any necessary adjustments.
The model comes with the latest technology, which delivers a more transparent and natural listening experience than the older models.
2. Audien Atom Pro - Best Invisible Hearing Aid
Pros
- Both versions have rechargeable batteries
- Doesn’t require a hearing test
- Designed for mild to moderate hearing loss
- Cheap and easily obtainable on the web
Cons
- Warranty Period: One Year (Limited)
- Lacks modern conveniences like a telecoil, tinnitus control, Bluetooth, or active noise cancellation.
Audien Hearing is a registered corporation with the FDA that offers some of the best hearing aids. The company does not mandate a hearing test before purchasing its product. However, Audien Hearing suggests that a hearing test may benefit those who require custom-programmed hearing aids.?
Why We Chose Audien
The Audien Atom Pro hearing aid is priced at a reasonable rate of $249 per pair, making it the most affordable option available in the market. Price can be a significant factor in deciding which hearing aid to purchase, and the Atom Pro is an excellent choice for those with a limited budget.?
Despite being affordable, it boasts advanced features such as enhanced feedback cancellation and sound processing, making it a valuable investment.
Audien has launched a small rechargeable hearing aid that can be wirelessly charged in its case. The Atom Pro model boasts a battery life of up to 24 hours, with four to six hours of charging.?
The device incorporates Audien's latest sound processing technology, eliminating the feedback and whistling noises commonly heard with the best hearing aids.
The Atom Pro is reasonably priced and has an extended protection plan covering lost, broken, or damaged devices. It is available for a monthly fee of $4, and the replacement cost is $34.
The Atom Pro is the best rated hearing aid from Audien, priced very competitively, but this low price comes at the cost of reduced functionality and features. Unlike other best hearing aids on the market, it does not offer audiologist support, remote adjustments, or customizable settings to suit your specific hearing needs.
Related: Audien Hearing Aids Review
3. MDHearing Volt - Best Rechargeable Hearing Aid
Pros
- American-based customer service
- Four different sound environment settings
- Available funding at reasonable rates
- Telephone and electronic communication available round-the-clock
- Feedback cancellation
- 45-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- Not a good choice for those with severe to profound hearing loss
For over ten years, MDHearing has been revolutionizing the conventional method of selling the best hearing aids through physical stores. The company, based in Southfield, Michigan, operates by assembling and distributing its products directly to customers in the Midwest region.?
Over time, they have improved their product range from a basic device to a highly advanced hearing aid and introduced an efficient online hearing test.
4. Eargo 7 - Best OTC Hearing Aid
Pros
- Ultra-discreet construction
- 12, 24, or 36-month payment plans available
- A single occurrence of loss or damage per item covered under warranty
- The Big Four of CIC (completely-in-canal) hearing aids
- Sound Adjust instantly enhances the acoustic environment
Cons
- Can only buy in pairs
- Inadequate for those with severe to profound hearing loss
Eargo, a company established in 2010, introduced its first product five years after its inception. In February 2023, the seventh iteration of Eargo, the Eargo 7, was unveiled.
The new device is more advanced than the original 2015 product, smaller in size, and designed to be invisible.?
The Eargo 7 utilizes a unique ear tip allowing airflow and comfort while positioning the device deeper in the ear canal.
It is worth noting that the Eargo 7 is the smallest best rated hearing aid on the market, and it is the only one that is equipped with rechargeable batteries, making it an impressive combination.
They have an appealing, slim design. Eargo's line of the best hearing aids is perfect for people new to using them and who are tech-savvy. These rechargeable hearing aids remove the need to change batteries constantly.
5. Audicus Omni - Best Hearing Aids for Sound Quality
Pros
- 45-day free trial with no obligations
- Several versions include rechargeable batteries
- A cost-free hearing
- Three different designs to choose from
- Several types for moderate to severe loss of hearing
Cons
- Only four locations for in-person transactions (Denver, New York City, and two in Chicago)
- Warranty Period: One Year (Limited)
Audicus was among the first hearing aid brands to introduce the concept of remote programming and home delivery. Their high-tech best rated hearing aids are designed to be affordable and are now customizable. Customers can try, purchase, and adjust the best hearing aids all from the comfort of their own homes.
6. Oticon Real - Best Bluetooth Hearing Aids
Pros
- 360-degree soundscape
- Receive audio from wireless sources
- Uses the IFTTT service to link up with the web
- Customized listening experience with the Oticon On App
- Proprietary BrainHearing tech
Cons
- Only purchasable from authorized Oticon hearing centers
- Greater financial investment is required
In February 2023, Oticon introduced its latest flagship product, the Oticon Real, as a successor to the popular Oticon More. Building upon the success of its predecessor, the Oticon Real brings significant advancements in two key areas: wind and handling noise reduction and sudden sound stabilization.?
These improvements are designed to enhance speech clarity, reduce listening effort, and create a more natural listening experience.
7. Phonak - Best for Severe Hearing Loss
Pros
- Automatically answers calls without lifting a finger
- Superb for those with severe to profound hearing loss
- Recharges quickly and lasts a long time
- A speech amplifier strengthens whispered words
- Active suppression of ambient sound
Cons
- Costs are a lot more than usual
- Only available from a local vendor
Phonak, a significant player in the hearing aid industry, has been providing hearing solutions for more than 70 years.?
With a presence in more than 100 countries through local hearing clinics, the company doesn't provide options for individuals with severe hearing difficulties, unlike many other companies that solely concentrate on mild-to-moderate hearing loss.
Why We Chose Phonak
For those with severe hearing loss, a powerful hearing aid that can provide clear sound is crucial. The Phonak Naída Paradise P-UP is a Bluetooth-enabled behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aid, which is one of their best rated hearing aids, specifically for those with severe to profound hearing loss.
The Naída Paradise P-UP is a highly advanced hearing aid that offers numerous customizable programs for different listening environments. The P-UP model has four levels to choose from, each with its own cost and set of features.
Phonak's Autosense OS 4.0 operating system is included in all four levels of the Naída hearing aids. This advanced technology offers better sound analysis and adjusts automatically to various situations, resulting in clear hearing in any environment.?
The Naída hearing aids with Autosense OS 4.0 are an improvement from the previous models. The cost increases with each level, providing more programs to choose from and advanced sound processing.?
The feature called Dynamic Noise Cancellation empowers users to customize the degree of noise cancellation in noisy surroundings. Additionally, EchoBlock minimizes disruptive sounds in places that echo, like big auditoriums.?
Per customer hearing aid reviews, it can connect wirelessly to most devices, including certain smartphone models. Its Bluetooth connectivity enables direct streaming and hands-free phone calls, making it easy to communicate with loved ones.
Music and videos can also be streamed directly to the device. Although switching between devices can be cumbersome, this is not an issue if the aid is only being used with a smartphone.
The Naída Paradise P-UP can also be connected with Roger technology, which consists of remote microphones, table microphones, and TV streamers, as with several other Phonak best hearing aids.
8. Widex Moment Sheer - Best Tinnitus Hearing Aids
Pros
- Customization assisted by AI
- Quick recharging thanks to the integrated fuel cell system
- The innovative PureSound ZeroDelay system
- Tranquility for those who suffer from tinnitus
- Embedded support for iOS and Android devices
Cons
- Service staff only accessible during normal business hours
- Only get them by visiting a hearing aid center in person
Widex has been manufacturing hearing aids since 1956 and is a well-recognized brand in the hearing health industry. The company is highly regarded for its superior product quality and reputation.
Additionally, Widex best rated hearing aids are specifically designed to cater to music enthusiasts, with a broad frequency response range and consideration given to musicians. Therefore, they are our preferred choice for individuals who enjoy music.
Why We Chose Widex
Tinnitus, commonly known as ringing in the ears, has various types. While tinnitus has no permanent cure, managing its symptoms can be helpful.?
The best hearing aids try to alleviate tinnitus symptoms by mixing them with background noise, but the Widex Moment hearing aid utilizes a more advanced system. The Widex Zen technology aids in managing tinnitus through sound therapy. Zen tones, which are made up of randomly played fractal musical tones, help to alleviate the ringing in the ears.?
This is significant because there is no discernible pattern to the tones, which prevents the brain from getting accustomed to them.?
The use of calming chimes can aid in reducing stress and anxiety that are known to cause tinnitus. Compared to other best hearing aids that use broadband or narrowband noise to alleviate tinnitus, chimes produce a more enjoyable sound.?
Individuals with tinnitus must consult a hearing care professional to rule out any underlying causes and receive assistance managing the condition.
9. Starkey Evolv AI - Best Hearing Aids With Fall Detection
Pros
- Streaming media wirelessly and through smartphones
- Modifications made by telehearing
- Alerts and fall detection systems
- In-ear devices that provide gentle prompts
- Money-back satisfaction guarantee within 30 days
Cons
- Among the most expensive options available
- Sold only at Starkey-authorized hearing aid clinics
Since 1967, Starkey, which is an American-owned company producing the best hearing aids, has expanded its business to more than 100 markets globally. Falling incidents can be caused by various factors, including hearing loss, which triples the risk of an accidental fall, even in mild cases.?
As a leader in the hearing aid industry, Starkey is pioneering by providing advanced features similar to top medical alert systems. They are the sole manufacturer incorporating machine learning, artificial intelligence, and fall detection into its best rated hearing aids.
10. Horizon Mini X - Best Hearing Aids for Younger People
The Horizon Mini X is one of the top-rated hearing aids of Hear.com, which has made its mark in the hearing aid industry with its innovative designs and advanced technology. The Horizon Mini X is designed for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss.?
It's an in-the-canal (ITC) hearing aid that is nearly invisible when worn, making it an appealing option for those who value discretion.
Pros of Horizon Mini X Hearing Aids
- Small and discreet design, nearly invisible when worn.
- Innovative features like Speech Focus and Relax Mode enhance the listening experience.
- Crystal-clear speech understanding, even in challenging environments.
- Automatic adjustment to different listening situations through acoustic motion sensors.
- Convenient smartphone controls through the Horizon App.
Cons of Horizon Mini X Hearing Aids
- Limited availability and distribution compared to more established brands.
- May not be suitable for individuals with severe hearing loss.
- Some users may find the small size challenging to handle and adjust.
Why We Chose It
Regarding features, Horizon Mini X has advanced technology that enhances the user’s hearing experience. Some standout features include:
- Acoustic Motion Sensors: These sensors adjust the hearing aid's settings based on movement, providing optimal sound quality whether you're sitting still or on the go.
- Innovative Speech Focus: This feature boosts speech sounds and filters out background noise, making it easier to follow conversations in noisy environments.
- Relax Mode: Need some quiet time? The Relax Mode allows you to reduce background noise and enjoy a selection of soothing natural sounds.
- Smartphone Controls: With the Horizon app, you can easily adjust the volume and settings of your hearing aid from your smartphone.
Despite its small size, the Horizon Mini X doesn’t compromise on battery life. It offers up to five days of use on a single charge, which is impressive for such a compact device.
What Is Hearing Loss?
Hearing loss, or auditory impairment, is a widespread medical condition and a major health concern, affecting a significant proportion of the global population. Its prevalence is increasing with age, making it a common issue among the elderly. [1]
However, it is not restricted to this age group and can affect individuals across all age demographics, including neonates and adolescents. The affliction can range from mild to profound and can have multifarious origins, such as genetic, environmental, and age-related factors.?
Despite available treatments, challenges are linked to accessibility, affordability, and effectiveness often deter individuals from seeking help.
Types of Hearing Loss
Hearing loss can be categorized into three main types: conductive, sensorineural, and mixed.
Conductive Hearing Loss
Conductive hearing loss is when there is an obstruction in sound transmission from the outer to the inner ear. This could be because of various reasons like abnormal auricle formation, cerumen impaction, ear canal foreign bodies, otitis externa, or dysfunction of the ossicular chain. Patients with conductive hearing loss often perceive sounds as diminished. [2]
Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SNHL)
Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) occurs due to issues in transmitting impulses at or after the cochlea. This can result from hair cell dysfunction or a disorder of the eighth nerve. SNHL patients may perceive the sounds as both diminished and distorted. [3]
Mixed Hearing Loss
Mixed hearing loss combines conductive and sensorineural hearing loss. It involves problematic transmission before and after the cochlea.
Etiologies of Hearing Loss
Hearing loss can stem from a plethora of reasons and can be influenced by both genetic and environmental factors.
Genetic Causes
In the pediatric population, genetic causes contribute to more than 50% of hearing loss cases. These might involve various syndromes or non-syndromic genetic hearing loss, wherein patients suffer hearing loss while the rest of their function is normal. [4]
Environmental Causes
Environmental factors include exposure to harmful noise levels, ototoxic drugs, and other chronic conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Other causes can be prenatal and perinatal factors such as exposure to bacterial or viral infections and different teratogens. Postnatal causes include meningococcal infections, mumps, head injuries, or chronic otitis media. [5]
Age-Related Degeneration
Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, involves a gradual reduction of the hearing capacity of the individual and poor speech discrimination scores, most noticeable initially in noisy environments. This is likely related to age-related degeneration of the cochlea in various sites, particularly the hair cells. [6]
What are Hearing Aids?
Hearing aids are devices devised to assist individuals with hearing loss. They amplify sounds, making it easier for the user to hear. The primary components of a hearing aid include a microphone, amplifier circuitry, a miniature loudspeaker (receiver), and batteries.
The microphone picks up the sound, the amplifier circuitry intensifies it, and the receiver delivers the amplified sound into the ear canal. The batteries power these electronic components. Some of the best-rated hearing aids also come with earmolds or earpieces to direct the flow of sound into the ear and enhance sound quality. [7]
The technology used in hearing aids may be analog or digital. Analog hearing aids amplify all sounds (speech and noise) similarly, while digital hearing aids convert sound waves into digital signals, producing an exact duplication of sound.?
Digital hearing aids are more common due to their complex sound processing capabilities and programming flexibility to match specific hearing loss patterns.
How Do Hearing Aids Work?
A hearing aid generally consists of three main components - a microphone, an amplifier, and a speaker. The function of the microphone is to capture acoustic sound waves and convert them into electrical signals.
After that, the amplifier processes and improves these signals. Finally, the speaker converts the signals back into sound waves, which helps the wearer hear more clearly and loudly.?
This process of sound amplification can enhance a person's hearing abilities and make it easier for them to comprehend speeches. [8]
What are the Different Hearing Aid Styles?
Hearing aids come in various styles, including
Behind-the-Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids
Behind-the-ear (BTE) aids consisting of a small plastic case that rests behind the ear. The case is connected to an earmold or earpiece by a clear tubing. This style is often preferred for young children as it can accommodate various earmold types that must be replaced as the child grows. BTE aids are also easy to clean, handle, and are relatively sturdy.
"Mini" BTE or Receiver in Canal (RIC) Aids
Mini BTE or receiver in canal (RIC) aids are similar to BTE aids but are typically smaller in size. They fit behind the ear and connect to the ear canal with a narrow tube. These aids may have a smaller earpiece for insertion or use a traditional earmold. Mini BTEs with earpieces can reduce the occlusion effect, improve comfort, reduce feedback, and address cosmetic concerns.
In-the-Ear (ITE) Aids
In-the-ear (ITE) aids contain all their components within a shell that fills the outer part of the ear. They are larger than in-the-canal and completely in-the-canal aids, making them easier to handle. ITE aids are suitable for individuals with mild to severe hearing loss.
RELATED: Best Hearing Aids for severe hearing loss
In-the-Canal (ITC) and Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC) Aids
In-the-canal (ITC) and completely-in-the-canal (CIC) aids are tiny devices that fit partly or completely into the ear canal, respectively. They are the smallest hearing aids available and offer cosmetic and some listening advantages. However, their small size may make them difficult to handle and adjust.
Each of these styles has its advantages and limitations. Your choice should depend on your type and severity of hearing loss, listening needs, and lifestyle. [9]
Choosing the Right Hearing Aid
Selecting a hearing aid that's right for you is a personal decision and depends on several factors. These include the severity of your hearing loss, the size, and shape of your ear, your ability to handle small items (manual dexterity), and your personal preferences.?
Emerging technologies in hearing aids, such as rechargeable batteries and Bluetooth? connectivity, should also be considered.?
Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids
In a historic ruling in August 2022, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) allowed the sale of over-the-counter hearing aids. As a result, people can now purchase hearing aids over the counter. [10]
These devices are suitable for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss. A healthcare provider should be consulted for appropriate testing, diagnosis, and treatment for severe to profound hearing loss or complex hearing conditions.
Hearing Aids for Specific Conditions
There are hearing aids available to cater to specific health conditions. These include:
- Tinnitus (ringing in your ears).
- Meniere's disease (a condition causing balance or hearing issues due to swelling and pressure in your inner ear).
- High-frequency hearing loss.
- Low-frequency hearing loss.
- Sensorineural hearing loss (caused by damage to your inner ear).
- Mild to moderate hearing loss.
- Severe hearing loss.
- Profound hearing loss.
- Limited manual dexterity.
Your healthcare provider can help you choose a device based on your specific health condition and situation.
Hearing Aids for Tinnitus
Hearing aids can provide significant relief for individuals suffering from tinnitus. They can help mask the ringing or buzzing sounds experienced by the user and improve their overall quality of life. [11]
Hearing Aids for Hyperacusis and Noise Sensitivity
Individuals with hyperacusis or noise sensitivity can also benefit from using hearing aids. The devices can be adjusted to reduce the impact of certain sounds, making them more tolerable for the user. [12]
Hearing Aid Features to Consider
With advancements in hearing aid technology, new features are constantly being introduced. These additional features can enhance the usability and enjoyment of hearing aid devices.?
Below are some of the most popular features that are currently available.?
Bluetooth Capabilities
By using wireless Bluetooth technology, it is possible to connect your hearing aids to your smartphone and other devices, enabling you to stream audio and calls directly to your hearing aids.?
Bluetooth is a wireless technology that facilitates the exchange of information or data, such as sound, between different devices, including smartphones.
Additionally, hearing aids with Bluetooth capability can be controlled through smartphone apps, allowing for convenient adjustments to sound settings.?
Directional Microphones
Directional microphones amplify sounds coming from the front and reduce the sounds from other directions, thus enabling clear conversation in noisy surroundings. They are most effective when the listener is close to the sound source.?
Sophisticated versions, like those in Phonak and Starkey best rated hearing aids, can even amplify sounds from behind or beside the listener.?
Feedback Suppression
The function of feedback suppression in best hearing aids is to decrease the occurrence of high-pitched whistling sounds. This feature is handy when you are near a phone or if the hearing aid moves slightly from your ear due to jaw movement.?
Additionally, it can enhance the sound quality of individuals who possess good hearing in the lower frequencies.
Digital Noise Reduction
Digital noise reduction is a useful tool to enhance listening performance in noisy surroundings by eliminating ambient noise and facilitating better speech comprehension.?
Tinnitus Masking
Some of the best rated hearing aids have a function that can help reduce the buzzing or ringing noises that often occur with tinnitus by emitting different types of sounds to divert the brain's attention.?
Several companies, such as Oticon, Jabra Enhance, and Widex, have created the best hearing aids designed for those who suffer from tinnitus.
Rechargeable Batteries
Rechargeable batteries for the best hearing aids have the advantage of being rechargeable instead of needing to be replaced frequently. It's unnecessary to take the batteries out of the best hearing aids for charging, as both devices can be charged in a dock overnight for use the next day.?
Rechargeable batteries may need to be replaced after they have died, depending on the model and the severity of hearing loss, but they typically last up to five years. In contrast, traditional disposable batteries for hearing aids need to be replaced every few days or weeks.?
Due to the small size and difficulty in handling hearing aid batteries, rechargeable batteries are often ranked as the second most important feature customers want.
Telecoil
The telecoil (T-coil) feature allows users to switch from the normal microphone setting to a T-coil setting, specifically designed for improved telephone communication. It eliminates environmental sounds and picks up sound directly from the telephone, reducing background noise and preventing feedback.
The T-coil feature is particularly useful in venues with induction loops or FM installations, such as theaters, auditoriums, and houses of worship. Some hearing aids have a combination M (microphone) and T (telephone) switch, allowing users to hear nearby conversations while using an induction loop.
Connecting Your Hearing Aids to Your iPhone
Most of the best hearing aid brands offer Made for iPhone hearing aids, which can be directly connected to your iPhone, allowing you to stream phone calls, music, and more directly to your hearing aids.
You can connect your hearing aids to your iPhone using Settings > Accessibility > Hearing Devices. Ensure your hearing aids are in pairing mode (refer to your hearing aids manual for instructions), then tap on your hearing aids under MFi Hearing Devices and pair.
Once connected, you can control your hearing aids through your iPhone, adjusting the volume, changing the program, and even checking the battery status. You can also use the Live Listen feature, which turns your iPhone into a remote microphone.
Best Hearing Aids for Seniors
Hearing loss is a common issue among seniors. The best hearing aids for seniors combine ease of use, comfort, excellent sound quality, and reliability. Following our comparison of hearing aids, Jabra Enhance is the best rated hearing aid for seniors.
Phonak's Audeo Marvel is a popular choice among seniors thanks to its universal connectivity, rechargeability, and automatic adjustments to the listening environment. Its large, easy-to-use buttons suit seniors with limited manual dexterity.
Starkey's Livio AI is another excellent choice for seniors, especially those interested in tracking their physical and cognitive health. Its fall detection and the alert feature can provide added peace of mind for seniors and their families.
Oticon's Opn S is praised for its superior sound quality, especially in challenging listening environments, making it ideal for seniors who lead active, social lives.
Benefits of Hearing Aids for Older Adults
Hearing aids can significantly enhance the auditory function of older adults, reducing listening-related fatigue and cognitive decline.
Improved Speech Intelligibility
The best hearing aids can improve speech intelligibility in noisy environments, making listening and comprehension less exhausting for hearing-impaired elders.
Reduction in Listening-Related Fatigue
Hearing aids can significantly reduce cognitive and psychosocial fatigue in older adults, improving vitality and reducing listening effort during conversations.
Alleviation of Cognitive Issues
The best hearing aids can alleviate cognitive failures related to attentiveness and memory in everyday life. They can help redirect focused attention to other daily demanding tasks and alleviate cognitive issues related to sensory deprivation.
How Much Do the Best Hearing Aids Cost?
The cost of the best hearing aids can differ significantly based on various factors, such as the manufacturer, the model, the type of additional technology features you require, and the audiologist from whom you buy them.
It is essential to note that the best rated hearing aids are priced per piece, so if you need them for both ears, you must double the prices. In 2023, the starting prices for a pair of the best hearing aids vary from $1,400 to $5,000 or more based on your chosen brand and model.
OTC hearing aids are expected to cost up to $3,000 less than prescription hearing aids. If you buy from a hearing professional, you can expect to pay closer to the $4,600 average price, but you'll receive a customized device to fit your needs and unique anatomy.
Where Can I Buy the Cheapest Best Hearing Aids?
To ensure that you choose the most suitable hearing aid for your needs, it's important to consult with an audiologist and consider affordability. Opting for a cheaper device without considering your hearing loss can result in choosing a hearing aid that may not be as effective for you. Find more options in our list of the best affordable hearing aids.
Best Hearing Aids: FAQ
Do you still have questions about the best hearing aids? We’ve gathered the most common questions with their answers for you.
How Do I Know If I Need a Hearing Aid?
If you suspect you might require a hearing aid, it’s best to consult a medical professional or audiologist. They can conduct a hearing examination to assess the extent of your hearing impairment and suggest various types and brands of the best hearing aids.
Will a Hearing Aid Restore My Hearing to Normal?
Regrettably, it is not possible for the best hearing aids to fully restore your hearing to its previous levels. They aim to enhance your hearing and listening capabilities and facilitate communication.
What Does an Audiologist Do When Picking Hearing Aids?
If you are a beginner or looking for a new pair of hearing aids, it is crucial to seek help from an audiologist to find the most suitable hearing aid for your use.?
The audiologist will conduct a hearing test to determine the extent and type of hearing loss that you have. Based on your requirements, they will then provide the requirements for your hearing aid and some options.
Do Hearing Aids Use Special Batteries?
To power hearing aids, specific batteries are required, and there are different types available, including standard and rechargeable options. The standard batteries for the best hearing aids are classified into four sizes (10, 13, 312, and 675), corresponding to the specific type of hearing aid user.?
Is It Necessary to Wear Two Hearing Aids If I Have Hearing Loss in Both Ears?
According to Harvard Health Publishing, it is recommended to use hearing aids in both ears to treat hearing loss for optimal speech understanding.?
Binaural hearing aids are more efficient in helping individuals focus on speech in noisy surroundings. Even though purchasing a pair of the best hearing aids might be costly, you must ensure you buy what you require.
How Long Does It Take To Get Used to a Hearing Aid?
The duration of the adjustment period for the best hearing aids varies from person to person. While some people may notice a change immediately, it may take several months to fully adapt to wearing hearing aids.?
Conclusion: Choosing the Best Hearing Aids for Your Needs
Choosing the best hearing aid for your needs is a significant decision that can greatly enhance your quality of life. With the vast array of the best hearing aids available today, finding a solution that fits your hearing loss, lifestyle, and budget is possible.
Whether you're considering Jabra Enhance, Audien, Eargo, MDHearing, Audicus, or any other brand, remember that the best hearing aid is the one that you're comfortable wearing, easy to use, and helps you hear better. Consult a qualified audiologist, consider your options carefully, and take advantage of trial periods to ensure you make the right choice.
From the best hearing aids for tinnitus and seniors to the best online hearing aids and best hearing aids earbuds, the options are plentiful, and the technology is impressive. So take the first step towards better hearing and quality of life today.
References:
[1] - Types of hearing loss (2022a) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/hearingloss/types.html (Accessed: 22 July 2023).
[2] - Sooriyamoorthy T, De Jesus O. Conductive Hearing Loss. [Updated 2023 Feb 12]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK563267/
[3] - Tanna RJ, Lin JW, De Jesus O. Sensorineural Hearing Loss. [Updated 2023 Feb 12]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK565860/
[4] - Shearer AE, Hildebrand MS, Schaefer AM, et al. Genetic Hearing Loss Overview. 1999 Feb 14 [Updated 2023 Jun 29]. In: Adam MP, Mirzaa GM, Pagon RA, et al., editors. GeneReviews? [Internet]. Seattle (WA): University of Washington, Seattle; 1993-2023. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK1434/
[5] - Al-Ani RM. Various aspects of hearing loss in newborns: A narrative review. World J Clin Pediatr. 2023 Jun 9;12(3):86-96. doi: 10.5409/wjcp.v12.i3.86. PMID: 37342452; PMCID: PMC10278076.
[6] - Cheslock M, De Jesus O. Presbycusis. [Updated 2023 May 29]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559220/
[7] - Center for Devices and Radiological Health,? Hearing aids, U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Available at: https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/consumer-products/hearing-aids (Accessed: 22 July 2023).
[8] - Hearing aids National Institute of Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. Available at: https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/hearing-aids (Accessed: 22 July 2023).
[9] - Hoppe U, Hesse G. Hearing aids: indications, technology, adaptation, and quality control. GMS Curr Top Otorhinolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2017 Dec 18;16:Doc08. doi: 10.3205/cto000147. PMID: 29279726; PMCID: PMC5738937.
[10] - Center for Devices and Radiological Health, OTC hearing aids: What you should know, U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Available at: https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/hearing-aids/otc-hearing-aids-what-you-should-know (Accessed: 22 July 2023).
[11] - What is tinnitus? - causes and treatment (no date) National Institute of Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. Available at: https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/tinnitus (Accessed: 22 July 2023).
[12] - Hyperacusis, ucsfhealth.org. Available at: https://www.ucsfhealth.org/conditions/hyperacusis (Accessed: 22 July 2023).?
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