Hearing loss in older adults and over-the-counter hearing aids
Hearing loss is common as people age, and it can make conversations and social life harder. This guide explains common signs, hearing tests, the two kinds of hearing aids and what Medicare covers.
General information only. This guide is not medical, legal or financial advice. Talk with a physician, and with an elder-law or financial professional where money or legal papers are involved, about your own situation.
Common signs of hearing loss
The NIDCD suggests a hearing check if several of these sound familiar:
- Trouble hearing the TV or radio, or following talk at gatherings
- Feeling frustrated when talking with family and friends
- Feeling left out in groups, or avoiding them
- Visiting friends and relatives less than before
Getting a hearing evaluation
If you notice signs of hearing loss, the NIDCD suggests talking with a health care provider. Different professionals can help:
- A primary care doctor can check for other health problems and refer to a specialist.
- An ear, nose and throat doctor looks for the cause of hearing trouble.
- An audiologist measures hearing loss and can recommend or provide hearing aids.
Over-the-counter and prescription hearing aids
Over-the-counter hearing aids are for adults 18 and older who feel they have mild to moderate hearing loss. They are sold in stores and online, and users adjust the settings themselves.
Prescription hearing aids come through a licensed hearing professional, who sets the device for the person's hearing. The FDA says they can suit any level of loss. Someone who struggles to hear speech in a quiet room, or whose over-the-counter aid is not helping enough, may want a professional's view.
What Medicare covers
Medicare Part B covers hearing and balance exams that a doctor or other provider orders to look into a problem. The usual Part B deductible and coinsurance apply.
Original Medicare does not cover hearing aids or the exams for fitting them. A SHIP counselor can help you compare Medicare options and what each one covers.
Frequently asked questions
No. The FDA says adults can buy over-the-counter hearing aids without a medical exam, a prescription or a fitting. A hearing test is still an option before buying.
Original Medicare does not. Some Medicare Advantage plans offer extra benefits that Original Medicare does not cover, so ask the plan what it includes.
The FDA lists signs that call for a doctor first, such as ear pain, fluid from the ear, sudden hearing change, worse hearing in one ear, or severe dizziness.
Sources
SeniorLeaf is not affiliated with or endorsed by the organizations listed here.