Occasional hearing difficulties are common, but if people must shout for you to hear or you struggle to follow conversations, it's time to act. See an ENT specialist for evaluation—they can refer you to an audioprosthetist for hearing aids if needed.
While older adults are most at risk (9 out of 10 cases), hearing loss can strike anyone. It may result from sudden eardrum trauma, excessive noise exposure—like at concerts—or jobs in loud environments such as factories, construction sites, or music venues.
Accepting hearing aids can be tough, but untreated loss isn't trivial. At any age, it risks isolation—at work, with friends, or family—making group talks challenging or forcing repeats. Crowds, movies, and music lose enjoyment, and daily strain leads to fatigue from constant effort to hear.
Explore Hearing Solutions
Curious about hearing aids or want a test? Use National Hearing Day (March 11, 2021) to learn and raise awareness.
If hearing falters, get checked by an ENT via your GP. This specialist tests hearing and prescribes aids if loss exceeds 30 decibels on average, impacting daily life.
How Hearing Aids Work
A microphone captures environmental sounds, converting them to digital signals for processing and amplification. The receiver then delivers optimized sound to your ear.
These prescription medical devices require professional fitting. Your audioprosthetist starts with:
Next, receive a personalized quote detailing equipment price, services, model, brand, and reference.
In France, aids fall into two classes:
Post-Fitting Care
All classes offer 30-day trials. Biannual follow-ups are reimbursed by Health Insurance; 4-year warranty included.
Social Security covers devices and accessories. Regulated since January 1, 2019, coverage varies by age and disability. Average remaining cost: €250, often covered by mutual insurance.
By late 2021, "100% Health" and zero-remainder reforms aim for no patient costs—already for under-20s and blind individuals.
Test Your Hearing
See your doctor for screening and ENT referral if needed. Home apps like hearWHO offer quick tests.
Nearly 2 million French wear one or two aids. These daily-friendly devices, including "100% Health" options, restore clear hearing. Need details on aids and maintenance? Explore 100% Health from Wellness Mutual.
Read our guide: How to Choose Hearing Aids Wisely.
Learn more about 100% Health offers.
Sources:
https://www.ameli.fr/assure/remboursements/rembourse/optique-audition/protheses-auditives
https://www.santemagazine.fr/actualites/actualites-sante/audioprotheses-tout-savoir-sur-le-reste-a-charge-zero-335865
