Last Updated on August 9, 2025 by Jonathan Javid Au.D.
Best Hearing Aids for People with Arthritis (2025 Expert Guide)
Hearing loss affects millions worldwide, but for people with arthritis, the challenge goes beyond hearing itself. Arthritis can make operating traditional hearing aids difficult due to the small buttons, switches, and battery compartments that require fine motor skills. This can lead to frustration, reduced independence, and missed conversations.
As an audiologist with over 11 years of experience, I’ve worked with many patients who have arthritis. The good news is that hearing aid manufacturers have started designing solutions specifically for people with dexterity limitations. My top recommendation for arthritic hands is the Starkey Rechargeable Custom Hearing Aid.
Why Arthritis-Friendly Hearing Aids Matter
Arthritis causes joint inflammation, stiffness, and pain, especially in the hands and fingers. This can make it difficult to change tiny zinc-air batteries, press small buttons, or handle delicate hearing aid components. For many, this means they either stop using their hearing aids regularly or rely on others for help — both of which can reduce quality of life.
Hearing aids designed for people with arthritis address these issues through larger controls, simplified handling, and rechargeable technology that removes the need to swap tiny batteries.
Why the Starkey Rechargeable Custom Hearing Aid is the Best Choice
Starkey is known for creating user-friendly hearing aids that work for people of all ages and abilities, including those with vision challenges, tremors, and reduced dexterity. Their rechargeable custom model offers an ideal blend of simplicity, comfort, and high-performance hearing technology.
Key Features & Benefits for Arthritic Hands
1. Rechargeable Battery – No More Tiny Battery Changes
This model uses a lithium-ion rechargeable battery that lasts up to 24 hours on a single charge. Instead of wrestling with small battery doors, simply place the hearing aid on its magnetic charger each night. No more fumbling with zinc-air batteries or worrying about battery lifespan mid-day.
2. Streamlined, Button-Free Design
The device can be programmed with minimal or no physical buttons, making it much easier for those with arthritic fingers. Your audiologist can also add removal strings for easier handling.
3. Easy-to-Change Wax Traps
Starkey’s wax guards are designed for easy handling, even with reduced finger mobility. This keeps your hearing aids clean and ensures consistent sound quality. See our guide for patients with hand tremors for more maintenance tips.
4. Voice Prompts in Plain English
Instead of relying on confusing beeps, Starkey hearing aids offer voice prompts that tell you battery status, program changes, and connection alerts in clear, plain English.
5. Effortless Charging with Magnetic Dock
The magnetic charging base guides your hearing aids into the correct position — you only need to get them close. This eliminates the need for precise alignment or forceful clicks.
6. Comfortable, Custom Fit
Each device is custom-molded to your ear canal for comfort and stability, making insertion and removal easier and less painful for arthritic hands.
Additional Tips for Arthritis-Friendly Hearing Aid Use
- Ask your audiologist for larger cleaning tools that are easier to grip.
- Consider pairing your hearing aids with a remote control or app to change volume and programs without touching the device.
- Keep the charger on a stable, well-lit surface to avoid dropping the aids during handling.
Where to Buy
Check pricing for Starkey Custom hearing aids at ZipHearing, which offers competitive pricing and in-person professional care.
FAQ – Hearing Aids for Arthritis
What type of hearing aid is easiest for people with arthritis?
Rechargeable in-the-ear custom hearing aids, like the Starkey model, are easiest because they remove the need for battery changes and have minimal physical controls.
Can people with arthritis still clean their hearing aids?
Yes. Using larger cleaning tools, magnetic chargers, and easy-change wax traps can make maintenance possible without straining the hands.
Are behind-the-ear models harder to use with arthritis?
In many cases, yes — the battery doors and small tubing can be difficult to manage. Custom rechargeable in-the-ear styles are often better for dexterity concerns.