Q: What do you get when you buy over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids?

When you buy hearing aids over the counter (in stores or online), you are responsible for setting them up. That includes adjusting and tuning the sound yourself. Prescription hearing aids, on the other hand, have advanced technology and are fitted and programmed by an audiologist.  

Q: When are OTC hearing aids appropriate? 

If you are 18 or older, with mild to moderate hearing loss, you may be a candidate for OTC hearing aids. While getting your hearing tested is the only way to know for sure whether you have some hearing loss, these might be indicators:

• You can hear easily in quiet, one-on-one situations, but have more difficulty in noisy situations
• You’ve been turning up the volume on your phone or TV to hear better 

Q: What are the benefits and limitations of OTC hearing aids? 

The biggest benefit of OTC hearing aids is that they are a very cost-effective option. However, while they do not come with the high price tag of prescription hearing aids, they also do not come with the personalized care you’d get from an audiologist. OTC brands take a one-size-fits-all approach. But not all hearing loss is the same.    

Q: How much do they vary in cost and quality? 

OTC hearing aids range widely in cost and quality. My motto with any hearing device is, “You get what you pay for.” You certainly will not get the same sound quality and benefits from $99 devices that you would from $1,500 models. 

Q: How can people choose the best OTC hearing aids for their needs? 

Make sure they have a good return window — at least 60 days. That will give you time to wear them in various listening situations and to assess how helpful they are for you.  

Q: Who should consider prescription hearing aids, and why? 

I recommend prescription hearing aids for anyone with hearing loss. Here’s why:

• They are programmed to an individual’s exact hearing loss (there is a certain prescription of volume for every level of hearing loss out there).
• There is a designated place where you can take them if there is a problem.
• Prescription hearing aids use complex technologies to maximize noise reduction and speech clarity. 

Q: What are the key differences between OTC and prescription hearing aids? 

The biggest difference is the personalization. Most OTC hearing aids are “plug and play.” Again, it comes down to the one-size-fits-all vs. individualized approach. I think OTC is a great first step for a lot of people. But if you need more support or a more customized solution, if you have an increasing degree of hearing loss, or if you have complex medical needs (e.g., issues with hand dexterity or cognition), you really need to involve an audiologist.

Q: What else should people consider when choosing hearing aids? 

I think budget is the biggest concern for a lot of folks. As a provider, I never want someone to go into massive debt or refinance their house to get the help they need. If OTC is the only option in your price range, it is better than nothing. But if you can afford prescription hearing aids, or you have good insurance coverage, you will always do better going that route.  

Q: How can an audiologist help? 

Audiologists aren’t able to recommend specific over-the-counter hearing aids, since we don’t typically work with OTC devices. But we can test your hearing and let you know if you are a good candidate for them. 

Q: When should people get their hearing checked?

If your family tells you that you need to have your hearing checked, you probably do. Most people with hearing loss wait 7-10 years to get their hearing checked, which can affect not only your quality of life, but also your health. Studies indicate that untreated hearing loss is linked to an increased risk of depression, falls, and earlier onset dementia or cognitive decline.

Hearing tests are painless. Go get your hearing checked!