Medicare, the federal health insurance program primarily for people aged 65 and older, handles hearing loss in aging populations in a limited and somewhat complex way. While hearing loss is very common among older adults and can significantly impact quality of life, Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover hearing aids or routine hearing exams needed to fit them. This means that if you rely solely on Original Medicare, you will generally have to pay out-of-pocket for hearing aids and related services.
Hearing loss in older adults is a widespread issue. Research shows that more than 65% of people on Medicare over age 71 experience some degree of hearing impairment. This loss can be due to aging itself, noise exposure, genetics, or other health factors. Untreated hearing loss is linked to serious health risks such as increased chances of dementia, falls, depression, social isolation, and faster brain shrinkage. Because of these risks, addressing hearing loss is important for maintaining overall health and independence.
Original Medicare covers diagnostic hearing and balance exams only if a doctor orders them to determine if medical treatment is needed. For example, if a hearing problem is suspected to be caused by an underlying medical condition, Medicare Part B may cover the diagnostic exam. However, hearing aids themselves are not considered medical treatment under Medicare and are therefore excluded from coverage. Similarly, routine hearing tests and exams for fitting hearing aids are not covered.
Medicare Advantage plans, which are offered by private insurers as alternatives to Original Medicare, often provide additional benefits that may include hearing care. These plans can cover hearing exams, hearing aids, and related services, but coverage varies widely depending on the specific plan and insurer. Beneficiaries interested in hearing aid coverage should carefully review Medicare Advantage plan options to find one that includes hearing benefits.
There is ongoing legislative effort to change Medicare’s coverage of hearing aids. The Medicare Hearing Aid Coverage Act, introduced in 2025, aims to remove the exclusion of hearing aids and related exams from Medicare coverage. If passed, this law would allow Medicare to cover hearing aids starting in 2026, making them more accessible to seniors who need them. The bill also calls for a government study on how federal programs assist people with hearing loss.
For those who do not have Medicare Advantage or whose plans do not cover hearing aids, financial assistance may be available through Medicaid, but this depends on the state. Medicaid coverage for hearing aids varies because it is jointly administered by federal and state governments, and hearing care is not a federally
