Skip to main content

Buying Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids


Did you know the FDA has made changes to regulations regarding hearing aids, which now makes it possible to buy an FDA approved device over the counter (OTC)? While many of us have heard about the high cost of prescription hearing aids and that Medicare typically does not cover them, you may want to know whether the experts think an OTC purchase is a good idea.

The Harvard Medical School went to Dr. James Naples, assistant professor of otolaryngology/head and neck surgery at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, to see if it is a viable option and to explain potential pros and cons. He explains that despite there being several types of hearing aids, they all amplify sound and use a combination of signaling processing and directional microphones to filter out background noise. However, he warns against confusing personal sound amplification products (PSAPs) with hearing aids as they only amplify sound.

To determine your level of hearing loss, experts recommend you start by getting a hearing test from an audiologist like you would get an exam from an optometrist when buying eyeglasses. This is especially necessary for severe hearing loss, as OTC devices are not appropriate for all types of hearing loss. For mild to moderate hearing loss, it may be possible to get good results by purchasing an OTC device without a hearing exam and fitting by an audiologist.

The next question routinely asked is if you will save money by purchasing an OTC hearing aid and the answer is most-likely yes as a single hearing aid’s average cost is $2000, and age-related hearing loss may be in both ears. OTC also helps reduce the price by eliminating the added expense of the hearing test along with the actual device being substantially lower. Doctors say the new regulations should increase competition and some estimates indicate prices could drop by as much as $1,600.

Dr. Naples cautions that just as drugstore readers are a great option for many, some individuals have more complicated issues that require more precise solutions. Hearing aids are the same. The doctor states the safest bet is to get a hearing test to confirm an OTC device is right for you.

At MorningStar at River Oaks, our beautiful home provides a full range of care and hospitality services along with wellness programs and activities. Amenities include chef-inspired meals, fitness center, bistro, salon, sky terrace and courtyards with fireplace and BBQ. Contact us to learn more about exceptional memory care and assisted living in Houston.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity, and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Contact us to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Houston offers.

Labels

Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Be an Active Partner in Your Medical Care

Experts suggest that a good way to reduce medical errors regarding your care or that of a loved one is to be an active partner in the process whether in a hospital setting, doctors’ office or the pharmacy. In fact, a study showed 7% of hospitalized patients experienced an event that was considered preventable which negatively affected their health. Furthermore, harmful errors in primary and outpatient health care settings are typically related to diagnoses, prescriptions and use of medicines. Mistakes associated with misdiagnosis result in delayed treatment for the real problem and having the wrong medications prescribed or supplied can cause serious complications. However, it is important to keep in mind that some medical errors are a result of patients failing to disclose all the medications they take including prescription and over-the-counter drugs. Another problem is the failure to reveal pertinent details regarding a person’s prior medical history as well as lifestyle habits s...
Post a Comment
Read more

Hosting a Senior-Friendly Book Swap Event

For book lovers, there’s nothing better than finding new stories to dive into and sharing favorite reads with friends. Hosting a book swap event is a fun, budget-friendly way for seniors to exchange books, explore new genres, and connect over a shared love of reading. Choose a Cozy, Accessible Space The first step in planning a book swap is choosing a comfortable, accessible space. A common room or a cozy corner in senior living Kirkland is ideal. Arrange seating in a circle or create small areas where people can gather, sit, and chat. Add a table or shelf for displaying the books, so everyone can browse easily. Decorating with a few simple touches—like tablecloths, flowers, or even book-themed decorations—adds warmth and excitement. A welcoming atmosphere encourages everyone to relax, explore, and enjoy the event. Invite Participants to Bring a Book (or Two) The beauty of a book swap is that everyone contributes! Ask each participant to bring one or two gently-used books they’re read...
Post a Comment
Read more

Research Shows Humans May have the Potential for a Longer Lifespan

The Medical News Today recently reported on an interesting study published in the journal, Demographic Research, and conducted by the University of Washington, which indicated a likely rise in human longevity by the end of this century. Worldwide we have seen a rise over the last several years of a half a million people, referred to as centenarians , living past the age of 100 years old. Today the new focus is on those living past 110 years old who are referred to as “supercentenarians.” Up to now the oldest known person in the world was a French woman with a recorded age of 122 years old when she died in 1997.  The University of Washington longevity study used “updated longevity data in the International Database on Longevity (IDL), established by the Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research in Rostock, Germany.” The study included 1,119 people recorded as supercentenarians from ten European countries along with Japan, U.S. and Canada. They additionally included records of al...
Post a Comment
Read more