This guide is a national and state resource for free/subsidized assistance buying hearing aids, designed to support seniors in communities across the US to ensure safety and quality of everyday life.

• caring.com/best-hearing-aids/#financial-assistance-for-seniors-buying-hearing-aids
• fda.gov/fda-finalizes-historic-rule-enabling-access-over-counter-hearing-aids-millions-americans

Hearing loss affects millions of people, and the National Institutes of Health states that 28.8 million adults could benefit from using a hearing aid. But, only a fraction of those people actually uses hearing devices. Many people may put off seeking treatment for their hearing loss because they believe they cannot afford a pair of hearing aids. Or, the thought of numerous visits to an audiologist’s office for fittings and follow-up care can be overwhelming, especially if there are not any clinics located nearby. Thankfully, purchasing a hearing aid online is becoming an increasingly attractive solution.

“Purchasing a hearing aid online can be a viable and convenient option for all patients, especially those that have limited access to transportation, live in remote locations, or simply struggle to find the time to make in-person appointments,” says Dr. Mandi Chambless.

“That being said, it is imperative for consumers to work with a provider that offers safe, properly fit amplification. Consumer education is of utmost importance to not only protect the buyer from poorly programmed devices that could lead to more hearing loss but also to reduce the economic strain that can be a direct result of purchasing a product that is not appropriate for the user.”

It can be nerve-racking to make an important purchase online, especially when it’s a medical device like a hearing aid. That’s why we partnered with two expert audiologists to score the safety of each brand on this page, so you can feel confident that any hearing aid brand you choose (whether direct-to-consumer or in-person) offers safe, high-quality care.

In addition, this page also contains a wealth of information to assist you with your choice in buying hearing aids, including “what is the difference between buying hearing aids from a local audiologist or over-the-counter or online purchasing (besides the price)”:

• At a Glance: The 10 Best Hearing Aids
• How We Chose the Best Hearing Aids
• The 10 Best Hearing Aid Brands of 2022
• Compare Audiologist Safety Scores
• Caring.com Hearing Aid Safety Scores Methodology
• Hearing Aid Styles and Types Explained
• The Cost of Hearing Aids
• Financial Assistance for Seniors Buying Hearing Aids
• What You Should Know About Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids and FDA-Approved Hearing Aids
• Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Hearing Aid

See also:

• Wyoming Assistive Technology Resources – WATR

• Wyoming Institute for Disabilities (WIND)

• Rocky Mountain ADA Center

• Listening and Spoken Language Knowledge Center