The devices can be expensive -- one pair can cost more than $6,000. Getting the right hearing aid for your needs is not easy.

“Two-thirds of the 48 hearing aids were not adjusted properly for their wearers,” Consumer Reports’ Tobie Stander found. “In addition, a lot of shoppers didn't get information on features that could have helped their hearing aids' performance."

There are all sorts of hearing aids to choose from. Consumer Reports says no one hearing aid is good for everyone.

"Your first step is to find a person and place to prescribe and fit your hearing aids. Ideally, that's an ear doctor's office, which usually will employ audiologists," Stanger said.

Talk with the audiologist about your lifestyle. Ask about a telecoil if you talk on the telephone a lot. Also, consider a directional microphone, which helps people hear in noisy environments. And ask out about digital noise reduction, which helps reduce annoying background noise.

“When you pick up your hearing aids, it's critical that they're fitting properly,” Stanger said. “You need to have several tests done. And one that crucial is called the real-ear test."

The test measures the match between your hearing loss and the response of your hearing aid.

Then, allow time to get used to your hearing aids. Practice using them in different environments.

Follow those recommendations to help make sure you get the best features and fit for your money. Make sure any aid that you buy comes with a money-back guarantee.

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