Over The Counter Hearing Aids

More recently, due to accessibility and affordability, more people with hearing loss are purchasing Over-the-Counter and Personal Amplifier products instead prescribed hearing aids. Recommended for a specific demographic, OTCs or PSAPs may be a good alternative to assist those with situational hearing difficulty in minimal environments with competing ambient noise.
Over The Counter Hearing Aids
Over-the-counter hearing aids will not require a hearing test or medical intervention from your audiologist and/or physician. That being said, the most significant disadvantage in purchasing these devices is that an ear disease can easily go undetected. Therefore, prior to purchase, it is strongly recommended to schedule a hearing test with a licensed audiologist to rule out the possibility of any ear pathology or condition.
Over The Counter Hearing Aids
Similar to reading glasses you can purchase at CVS, over-the-counter hearing aids are tailored for individuals with a minimal to moderate permanent hearing loss. More affordable than prescribed hearing aids, the FDA announced that these devices can be sold by such manufacturers as Sony, Jabra and Lexie for persons over the age of 18. Best used for individuals with excellent speech understanding, they do not amplify sounds according to each individual’s specific hearing loss. Most styles will include a generic in the ear and behind the ear option that can be self-fitted and programmed by the individual wearer via the use of a smartphone.
Online Hearing Aids
Online hearing aids can be ordered through the internet and virtually programmed using a submitted hearing test. With a variety of different hearing aid manufacturers to choose from, remote adjustments and follow-up care are performed using an app through a phone, tablet or computer. Although it has become a more affordable option, there are limitations in the necessary treatment to improve the successful outcome of hearing aid use. The fitting requires more independence and self-care with no access to in person counseling, troubleshooting and/or services.