As for batteries—and I know they can cost a huge amount each month—the manufacturers are making rechargeable hearing aids, which is great.
As for support funding, it is so inappropriately done across the country. Some areas are more funded than others. In Ontario, the assisted devices program gives you $500 per hearing aid, and if you need a replacement, you have to hold your breath.
I think additional support could be presented in the context of saving: If you do this, you will save money in long-term care admissions, you will save money in the number of falls, injuries and hip fractures, and you will save money in the medical consultations required to support the onset of cognitive decline. The health care system needs to look at this from an investment and return perspective.