What You Need To Know About Over The Counter Hearing Aids
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What To Know About Over-The-Counter Hearing Aids
Hearing loss can feel overwhelming. If you have noticed a decline in your hearing ability, you may feel confused about what to do next. Our goal is to help you find a device that will provide you with amplification to hear your friends, family and colleagues again.
The FDA has recently approved over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids. Learn more about OTC hearing aids and how they differ from prescription hearing aids.
OTC Hearing Aid FAQs
Q. How Good Are OTC Hearing Aids?
A. OTC hearing aids are amplification devices designed for adults 18 and over with mild hearing loss in both ears. How good these devices are is subjective and depends entirely on what your hearing needs are, what your lifestyle is like and what kind of technology you are expecting in a device. We equate OTC hearing aids to “cheater/reader” glasses compared to prescription hearing aids being more similar to prescription contact lenses or glasses. OTC hearing aids will be a great way to get started on the lifelong continuum of hearing changes for those with mild hearing problems, or who just need them in specific environments and who are not quite to the level of needing full-time prescription help.
Q. How Much Will OTC Hearing Aids Cost?
A. OTC hearing aid prices will vary depending on the brand. Just like prescription hearing aids, they can range in cost. OTC hearing aids will be less expensive than traditional prescription hearing aids because the value of the professional fitting and follow-up care will not be factored in for these devices. Although some believe prescription hearing aids are expensive, these hearing aids also range in price based on many factors.
Q. What OTC Hearing Aids Are Best For High Degree Of Loss?
A. OTC hearing aids are best for those with simple mild to moderate hearing loss. If you have a high degree of significant loss or a more complex type of hearing loss, you could benefit from prescription hearing aids that can be programmed to your individual hearing needs.
