Common Questions About Hearing Aids
If you’re new to hearing aids or considering them for the first time, it’s natural to have questions. From pricing and performance to maintenance and coverage, understanding how hearing aids work can help you make a confident decision.
In this guide we are covering some of the most common questions asked about hearing aids to help you make the most informed decision for your hearing health.
Key Takeaways
- Hearing aids come in a variety of styles and technology levels to suit your needs, lifestyle, and budget.
- While OHIP does not fully cover hearing aids, Ontario residents may qualify for partial funding through the Assistive Devices Program (ADP) and other support options.
- The average lifespan of a hearing aid is 3 to 5 years with proper cleaning and maintenance.
- Hearing aids can help manage tinnitus by amplifying environmental sounds and offering tinnitus relief programs.
- Most people benefit from wearing hearing aids all day, as consistent use helps the brain adapt faster.
- Battery life on a hearing aid varies – rechargeable models typically last a full day per charge, while disposable batteries last 5-10 days depending on use.
- Early treatment of hearing loss improves long-term results and communication ease.
- Regular check-ups and cleaning help maintain sound quality and extend the life of your hearing aid.
- Your hearing healthcare professional can personalize technology, comfort, and pricing options to fit your needs and budget.
In this article
- How Much Do Hearing Aids Cost
- Does OHIP Cover Hearing Aids for Seniors
- What Are the Different Types of Hearing Aids
- How Long Do Hearing Aids Last
- Can Hearing Aids Help with Tinnitus
- What Level of Hearing Loss Requires a Hearing Aid
- How Many Hours a Day Should I Wear My Hearing Aid
- How Long Does It Take to Adjust to Hearing Aids
- How Do I Clean My Hearing Aids
- Next Steps
How Much Do Hearing Aids Cost
Hearing aid prices vary depending on the technology level, features, and manufacturer. On average, hearing aids at Hearing Solutions range from $2900-$6900 per pair before insurance and after the ADP grant is applied.
The Ontario Assistive Devices Program (ADP) provides a fixed grant of $500 per ear ($1000 for a pair) toward the cost of new hearing aids. Additional support may also be available through the following programs:
- Workplace Safety & Insurance Board (WSIB)
- Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP)
- Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC)
- Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB)
- Ontario Works (OW)
Higher end models will typically offer advanced noise reduction, Bluetooth connectivity, rechargeable batteries, and better performance in listening environments that can be more challenging. At your hearing test appointment, your clinician will help you find the right balance of the features you need while taking your level of hearing loss, lifestyle, and budget into consideration.
Does OHIP Cover Hearing Aids for Seniors
OHIP does not cover the full cost of hearing aids, however, as noted above, most Ontarians qualify for partial funding through the Assistive Devices Program (ADP), regardless of age.
For more information on ADP, read our full guide here.
In addition to this, funding may be available through private insurance, veteran’s benefits, or employer health plans. Many clinics also offer flexible payment plans, and no interest financing to make hearing care more accessible.
What Are the Different Types of Hearing Aids
Modern hearing aids come in a wide range of styles and technology to suit different needs, lifestyles, and budgets.
Hearing Aid Styles:
- Behind-the-Ear (BTE): This style is suitable for most hearing loss levels, are easy to handle, durable, and simple to maintain.
- Receiver-in-the-Canal (RIC)/ Receive-in-the-Ear (RITE): Is a popular style for those who want comfort, clarity, and something a little more discreet.
- In-the-Ear (ITE) and In-the-Canal (ITC): These can come in a custom fit option to fit the shape of your ear. These styles will sit inside the ear for a natural look feel.
- Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC): This is a very small hearing aid that is almost invisible when worn. These are custom made to fit and sit deeper inside your ear canal.
- Invisible Hearing Aids (IIC): These are the smallest hearing aids available, designed to fit even deeper in the canal than a CIC model, making them invisible. One example is the Phonak Lyric, which is worn 24/7 and can stay in the ear for weeks, even months at a time without removal.*
Each style has its own benefits depending on the user’s level of hearing needs, lifestyle, and preference.
Technology Levels
Hearing aids are also available in different technology levels, each designed to meet specific listening needs and lifestyle preferences.
- Essential: Ideal for quieter lifestyles and one-on-one conversations.
- Standard: Offers improved sound quality and clarity for everyday listening and conversations.
- Advanced: This technology tier provides great speech clarity and reduces background noise for active users.
- Premium: The most advanced tier level that offers the best speech understanding, automatic adjustments, and seamless connectivity for social, on-the-go lifestyles.
For an in depth look at hearing aid technology levels, read our full guide here.
At your appointment, your hearing care professional will be able to help you determine which combination of style and technology level is best suited to your hearing needs, comfort preferences, and budget.
*Please note: The Phonak Lyric is offered at select Hearing Solutions clinics. Availability may vary by location.
How Long Do Hearing Aids Last
With regular care and maintenance, the average lifespan of a hearing aid is 3 to 5 years. Factors that affect the longevity of your device include humidity, earwax buildup, and general wear and tear.
Regular cleanings and check-ups will help keep your devices performing their best over time, and your clinic can let you know when it’s time to consider an upgrade.
How Long do Hearing Aid Batteries Last
Battery life for a hearing aid depends on the hearing aid type, battery size, and daily usage.
- Disposable Batteries: Usually last 5 to 10 days.
- Rechargeable Batteries: Typically last 18-24 hours per charge, and may last 3-5 years before needing to be replaced.
If you’re tired of switching batteries in your devices, rechargeable hearing aids are a convenient, eco-friendly alternative.
Can Hearing Aids Help with Tinnitus
In short, yes! Many hearing aids include built in tinnitus management features that generate soft, soothing sounds that help to reduce the perception of ringing or buzzing in the ears.
While they don’t “cure” tinnitus, hearing aids often make the condition more manageable, especially when they are combined with sound therapy counseling.
What Level of Hearing Loss Requires a Hearing Aid
Hearing aids are recommended for mild, moderate, severe, and profound hearing losses.
Even mild hearing loss can cause difficulty following conversations in noisy settings or lead to listening fatigue. The earlier hearing loss is treated, the easier it is for your brain to adapt and for communication to remain effortless.
How Many Hours a Day Should I Wear My Hearing Aid
You should wear your hearing aids throughout the day, from morning until bedtime. Hearing aids should not be worn in the shower or while sleeping.
Consistent use will help your brain adjust more quickly and make your listening experience feel natural. If you’re new to hearing aids, you can start with a few hours a day and gradually increase the wear time as you adjust.
How Long Does It Take to Adjust to Hearing Aids
Most people adjust within 2-4 weeks, though it can vary depending on how long you’ve lived with untreated hearing loss.
During this time, sounds may seem to overlap or sound “too loud.” It is important during this adjustment phase to speak to your clinician during your follow ups so they can fine-tune your settings and ensure your hearing experience is comfortable.
For a more in depth look at what to expect when you first start wearing hearing aids, check out our article on Your First 30 Days With Hearing Aids.
How Do I Clean My Hearing Aids
Keeping your hearing aids clean is essential for sound quality and performance. Some helpful tips include:
- Wiping them daily with a soft, dry cloth.
- Using a small brush to clear any debris from openings.
- Storing them in a drying case overnight.
- Avoiding getting moisture on or near your device.
Your clinician can also share tips and show you the best cleaning tools and techniques for your specific hearing aid model.
Next Steps
Today’s hearing aids are advanced, customizable, and built to make everyday communication easier. Whether you’re exploring your first pair, or looking to upgrade from an older device, understanding how hearing aids work ensures you get the best experience possible.
If you have questions or think you are ready to take the next step, we recommend you book a hearing test with one of our licensed hearing professionals.
References:
Hearing Solutions (11, March 2025). How Long Do Hearing Aids Last? Tips to Extend Their Lifespan. https://www.hearingsolutions.ca/how-long-do-hearing-aids-last-tips-to-expand-their-lifespan/
Hearing Solutions (n.d.) Tinnitus: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment. https://www.hearingsolutions.ca/hearing-loss/types-of-hearing-loss/tinnitus/
Hearing Solutions (14, October 2025). How to Clean and Maintain Your Hearing Aids: A Simple Guide. https://www.hearingsolutions.ca/how-to-clean-and-maintain-your-hearing-aids-a-simple-guide/
Government of Ontario (9, April 2025). What OHIP Covers. https://www.ontario.ca/page/what-ohip-covers#section-10
Hearing Insider (9, August 2025). How Long Do Hearing Aids Last? Lifespan, Repairs, and Replacement Tips. https://hearinginsider.com/how-long-do-hearing-aids-last
Hearing Academy (13, August 2025). Tinnitus Relief With Hearing Aids: What Actually Helps (And How To Set Yours Up Right). https://hearingacademy.org/articles/tinnitus-relief-with-hearing-aids-what-actually-helps-and-how-to-set-yours-up-right/
Healthy Hearing (13, March 2024). Should you wear your hearing aids all the time? https://www.healthyhearing.com/report/53141-Wear-hearing-aids-all-the-time
