Hearing loss can happen at any age—including birth—but it’s most common among older adults. Data shows that about a third of people 65 and older have age-related hearing loss, jumping to 50 percent after age 75. For these individuals, a hearing aid can significantly enhance their quality of life, allowing them to fully engage in social activities or talk freely on the phone.
Until 2022, when the US Food and Drug Administration green-lit over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids, seniors could only get hearing aids prescribed by a doctor. The FDA’s approval of OTC devices opened the door to increased access and lower costs, and today there are more styles available than ever. For many seniors, behind-the-ear (BTE) devices are popular, though in-the-ear (ITE) models are excellent choices for those who want a more discreet option and can maneuver them without dexterity challenges. Based on our testing, the Jabra Enhance Select 300 tops our list for its sound quality, high level of customer service, and ease of use. Here’s our full list of hearing aids for seniors, including over-the-counter and prescription devices, all expert-tested and approved.
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How We Tested
The market is crowded with hearing aids claiming to be the best choice for seniors, and choosing one can be confusing. Which ones are “best” for you depends on your needs and tastes, but even that can feel vague and clichéd. To sort through the options, I partnered with licensed audiologist Ruth Reisman to conduct hands-on testing of 22 hearing aids. We analyzed each product on numerous dimensions, including quality, comfort level, and performance baselines determined by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Reisman analyzed each hearing aid in her lab and approved models that amplified sounds at safe levels. I also tested these hearing aids in numerous settings, including my home, outdoors, and noisy and quiet environments.
Together, we took a variety of considerations into account to turn down the noise on marketing. Read our Best Hearing Aids guide for additional details about our testing process.
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