Insurance and Support for Lost Hearing Aids

A lost hearing aid can be stressful and expensive. Hearing aids are vital for daily communication and improving quality of life, but they’re also prone to being misplaced due to their small size and the frequency with which they’re handled. Fortunately, there are several ways to locate lost hearing aids and safeguard yourself financially with insurance coverage options. Here’s what to know.

For compatible models, iPhones and iPads can help locate a lost hearing aid using Bluetooth technology or manufacturer-specific apps.

Apple-Compatible Solutions:

• Use the hearing aid manufacturer’s app (such as ReSound Smart 3D, Phonak, or Starkey) to locate your hearing aid on a map or activate a “find my hearing aid” signal. Learn more about hearing aid apps for smartphones. 
• Use iPhone’s Bluetooth menu to check if the hearing aid is in range. If the hearing aid appears connected, it may still be nearby. Read on for more ways to pair your iPhone to your hearing aids. 
• “Find My” App Limitations: Apple’s native “Find My” app doesn’t work for hearing aids unless the hearing aid is part of a made-for-iPhone ecosystem that includes tracking features. [1]

Keep in mind that these options will only work if your hearing aids are still powered on and within range, typically 10 to 30 feet.

The cost of loss and damage insurance for hearing aids varies based on several factors, including the device’s retail value, the coverage term, and whether the protection is provided through the manufacturer, a third-party plan, or a supplemental plan.

Common Pricing Averages:

• Manufacturer-backed protection: Often included for 1–3 years. [4]
• Extended protection plans: $100–$300 annually for coverage per device, although these usually have to be added while the original warranty is still in effect.
• Third-party providers: Plans like ESCO or Midwest Hearing Aid Insurance offer replacement policies with premiums ranging from $50 to $150 per year, depending on device cost.

Weigh these costs against the price of a full replacement, which can be expensive. 

Losing a hearing aid doesn’t have to be devastating. With smartphone tools and manufacturer apps, you may be able to recover it quickly. For peace of mind, it’s worth exploring insurance options that include loss protection—whether through your audiologist, a third-party provider, or supplemental insurance. If you would like to speak with a provider, please find an Amplifon clinic near you to schedule an appointment.

Protecting your investment ensures continued access to the world of sound and avoids the financial burden of full replacement costs.