How to Choose the Right Over-the-Counter Hearing Aid: A Buyer’s Guide
If you feel you could benefit from amplification to improve hearing ability, over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids offer an accessible option without the need for a medical prescription. With OTC hearing aids now available at retailers like Walmart, CVS, Walgreens, and Costco, how do you determine which product best suits your needs? This guide will walk you through the key steps for selecting the right OTC hearing aid for you.
Consider Your Individual Hearing Loss
OTC hearing aids work best for those with mild to moderate age-related hearing loss. The first step is honest self-assessment of your hearing ability and the environments where you need the most help. Think about when hearing issues crop up most and what sounds are hardest to pick up. This will guide you in choosing technology that specifically addresses where your hearing falters.\
Learn the Types of OTC Hearing Aids
There are a few main styles of OTC hearing aids to know:- Behind-the-ear - worn behind the ear and ideal for moderate hearing loss.
- In-the-ear - fits partly or completely in the ear canal for discreet wear.
- Receiver-in-ear - receiver fits in canal with body behind ear.
- Completely-in-canal - fully contained in the ear canal. Good for mild loss.
Consider size, comfort, ease of handling, and cosmetic appeal when selecting a style that works for your lifestyle and vision.
Key Technologies to Look For
OTC hearing aids incorporate helpful technologies to improve hearing ability, including:- Directional microphones - detect sound sources for better focus.
- Noise reduction - decreases unwanted background noise.
- Feedback cancellation - eliminates whistling from aids.
- Water/sweat resistance - protects in wet environments.
- Telecoil - pairs with telephones and public sound systems.
- Volume control - user adjustable amplification.
- Companion apps - allows personalization and discreet adjustments.
- Rechargeable batteries - no need to constantly replace hearing aid batteries.
Focus on tools that target your unique hearing challenges and environments.
Tips for Fitting and Adjusting
It takes time getting used to wearing hearing aids. Proper insertion, fit, maintenance, and usage adjustments allow you to fully benefit from OTC aids:- Carefully insert into the ear following product instructions.
- Start with manufacturer volume and setting recommendations.
- Gradually increase amplification over 2-4 weeks for acclimation.
- Keep aids clean and dry to avoid damage and infection.
- Update settings as needed until reaching optimal hearing clarity.
- Use alert features to indicate low battery or potential tampering.
- Purchase hearing aid accessories like cleaning tools, cases, and replacement batteries (as applicable).
Consulting a Hearing Specialist
Though OTC aids don’t require a prescription or fitting, a hearing specialist can help determine the best product type and settings for your degree of loss through comprehensive hearing tests. They can also teach proper usage and help you know what to expect when first trying OTC aids.Choosing an over-the-counter hearing aid takes research, patience, and a willingness to learn new technology. But taking these steps helps ensure you end up with the right device to truly improve hearing and make your life a little easier.