What You Need to Need to Know Before Purchasing Hearing Aids
You’ve had an audiology test and you’re told you need hearing aids. There are lots of options available to you at a large range of prices. Each vendor represents a few different manufacturers and not every vendor may carry the perfect product for your needs.
It’s important to know what to ask prior to deciding on the best product for you within a price point that’s comfortable for your budget. Prices generally range from $1500 to the high 4 figures. Just because the price is higher doesn’t necessarily mean the particular product is better quality. Costco sells hearing aids starting at $1600 with a strong warranty and long trial period. I’ve heard many positive first hand reviews for the Costco products.
About Your Hearing & Test Results
Can you explain my hearing test (audiogram) in plain language?
What type of hearing loss do I have (age-related, noise-induced, etc.)?
Is it the same in both ears?
How severe is it—and how might it progress?
🎧 About the Hearing Aids Themselves
Which models do you recommend for my specific hearing loss—and why?
What styles are available (behind-the-ear, in-the-ear, etc.) and which is best for me?
Are these hearing aids rechargeable or battery-operated?
How long does the battery last (daily and overall lifespan)?
Are they compatible with my phone (iPhone/Android)? Can they stream calls/music?
🔊 Performance & Features
How well will these help in noisy environments (restaurants, groups)?
Do they automatically adjust to different settings (quiet room vs outdoors)?
Do they reduce background noise and feedback (whistling)?
Are there directional microphones or speech-enhancement features?
Can I adjust them myself via an app?
🛠️ Fitting, Adjustments & Follow-Up
How many follow-up visits are included for adjustments?
What happens if they don’t feel comfortable or sound right?
Do you offer real-ear measurement (a more precise fitting method)?
How long does it take to get used to them?
💰 Cost & Warranty
What is the total cost (including visits, adjustments, supplies)?
What does the warranty cover—and for how long?
Is there a loss/damage replacement policy?
Are there any ongoing costs (filters, domes, batteries)?
🔄 Trial Period & Returns
What is the trial period?
Is there a full refund if I return them?
Are there any fees if I decide they’re not right for me?
🧼 Maintenance & Care
How do I clean and maintain them?
How often do parts need replacing?
What happens if they stop working—do I bring them in?
🌎 Lifestyle Fit
Will these work well for:
Watching TV?
Phone calls?
Group conversations?
Outdoor activities (wind noise)?
Are they water/sweat resistant?
💡 Bonus Tip
Bring real-life examples:
“I struggle hearing in restaurants” or “I miss parts of conversations with my grandkids.”
That helps them fine-tune recommendations specifically for you—not just your test results.
“If you were me, which product would you select?”
