Hearing Loss in Older Adults: Signs, Treatments, and Hearing Aids

Hearing loss in older adults is one of the most common health issues affecting older adults, yet it often goes unnoticed or untreated. According to the National Institute on Aging, nearly one in three people between ages 65 and 74 has hearing loss, and that number jumps to nearly half for those over 75.

The good news? With new advancements in technology and a wider range of treatment options, including affordable over-the-counter hearing aids, managing hearing loss is easier than ever.

Common Signs of Hearing Loss

Hearing loss in older adults can creep in gradually, making it easy to miss early signs. Watch out for these red flags:

• Frequently asking others to repeat themselves

• Turning up the TV volume higher than others prefer

• Trouble hearing on the phone

• Difficulty following conversations at a restaurant

• Complaints that people ‘mumble’ or speak too softly

• Withdrawing from social situations due to hearing difficulties

• Ringing or buzzing in the ears

If you or someone you love is showing theses signs of hearing loss, it might be time to explore hearing evaluations and treatment options.

Treatment

Hearing loss treatment varies based on the cause and severity. Here’s a breakdown of the most common approaches.

Hearing Aids. These small electronic devices amplify sound and are the most common treatment for age-related hearing loss. There are both prescription and over-the-counter hearing aids. Prescription aids are custom fitted by an audiologist and programmed for specific hearing profiles. Over-the-counter hearing aids are available without a prescription for adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss.

Assistive Listening Devices. These include amplified phones, TV hearing systems, and personal sound amplifiers, which can help in specific settings.

Cochlear Implants. For severe hearing loss, cochlear implants are surgically implanted devices that stimulate the auditory nerve directly.

Medical Treatment. Sometimes hearing loss is caused by an ear infection, wax buildup, or other treatable conditions. Always start with a hearing exam to rule these out.

Hearing Aids: Best Reviewed Options

Since the majority of older adults choose to wear hearing aids, let’s list your options: over-the-counter versus prescription.

Over-the-counter

As of 2022, the FDA allows adults with mild to moderate hearing loss to buy OtC hearing aids without a prescription. Here are some of the best-reviewed options.

• Lexie B2 Powered by Bose

Pros: Customizable settings, Bluetooth streaming, app-based controls.

Best for: Tech-savvy users looking for Bose-quality sound.

Price: around $849

• Jabra Enhance Plus

Pros: Discreet earbud style, good sound quality, great for phone calls.

Best for: Those who want a dual-use hearing aid/headphone

Price: around $799

• Eargo 7

Pros: Nearly invisible, comfortable fit, rechargeable

Best for: Style conscious users who want a sleek, modern design

Price: around $2,950

• MDHearing Aid Volt Max

Pros: Affordable, solid performance, US-based support

Best for: Budget conscious buyers

Price: around $699

• Audien Atom Pro

Pros: Very low cost, rechargeable

Bests for: Mild hearing loss and minimal tech interaction

Price: around $249

Prescription Hearing Aids

If you are your loved one who has moderate to severe hearing loss, or if OTC aids aren’t enough, consider seeing an audiologist for a full hearing test. Prescription hearing aids like Phonak, Oticon, or Widex offer tailored programming, advanced noise reduction, and better performance in complex listening environments.

Take the First Step

Hearing loss in older adults can affect relationships, mental health, and safety—but it does not have to. Whether you go the OTC route or work with a specialist, taking action can significantly improve quality of life.