Hearing loss is a common condition that affects millions of people around the world. Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids were developed to provide affordable and accessible treatment options for individuals with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. These devices are available without a prescription and can be purchased online or in stores.
While OTC hearing aids may seem like a convenient solution, they come with several disadvantages that people should be aware of before making a purchase. In this article, we will explore the downsides of OTC hearing aids from the perspective of an audiologist who knows that professional fit devices are better but OTC hearing aids can be much more affordable and can still provide benefits. I am not against OTC aids as I recommend certain devices on this site. But let’s discuss it so you can make an informed decision.
Disadvantages of OTC Hearing Aids:
- Lack of professional hearing evaluation, which can help identify the type and severity of hearing loss, as well as uncover any underlying medical conditions that require medical intervention.
- Inability to verify whether the hearing aids are meeting the individual’s hearing loss prescription without real ear measurement, making it difficult to ensure that the devices are working effectively.
- Lack of in-person support or real ear measurement, makes it challenging to ensure that the devices are working effectively.
- Limited warranty periods and return policies, make it difficult to ensure that the devices work well for a long time.
- Technology differences between OTC and prescription hearing aids, where prescription hearing aids are loaded with a ton of great features, including rechargeability, Bluetooth connectivity, and advanced programming software to optimize performance, making them not on the same playing field.
Lack of Professional Hearing Evaluation
Hearing loss is a common issue that affects millions of people worldwide, and the development of over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids has provided an accessible and affordable solution for those with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. However, while OTC hearing aids can be beneficial for some, they come with several disadvantages that can potentially cause harm to users. One major issue is the lack of a professional hearing evaluation.
Importance of a professional hearing evaluation
A professional hearing evaluation is a crucial first step in identifying hearing loss and determining the appropriate treatment plan. A licensed audiologist can perform a comprehensive evaluation that includes a variety of tests to determine the type and severity of hearing loss, as well as identify any underlying medical conditions that may require medical intervention.
Limitations of OTC hearing aid manufacturers’ online hearing screeners or apps
OTC hearing aid manufacturers often offer online hearing screeners or hearing tests within their smartphone apps. While these tools can provide a rough estimate of an individual’s hearing ability, they are not a substitute for a professional evaluation. Online hearing screeners and apps may not be able to identify serious medical conditions that require medical attention, such as a tumor growing on the auditory nerve. Moreover, these tools cannot provide the same level of accuracy and precision as a professional hearing evaluation.
Potential risks of not identifying serious medical conditions
Failing to identify serious medical conditions can have severe consequences. For instance, a tumor on the auditory nerve may require immediate medical attention, and the delay in treatment can result in irreversible damage. Although the risk of that is low, especially if your hearing loss is symmetrical, there is still a risk that you may want to have evaluated. By relying solely on OTC hearing aids, users may miss out on the opportunity to receive a proper diagnosis and appropriate medical treatment. Consider getting a hearing test at least as it is covered by insurance.
Inability to Verify Hearing Loss Prescription
While OTC hearing aids may be more affordable and accessible, they come with several limitations. One major disadvantage is the inability to verify whether the hearing aids are meeting the individual’s hearing loss prescription. This can lead to improper programming, which can have potential consequences for the user’s hearing health.
Importance of real ear measurement
Real ear measurement is a crucial step in fitting hearing aids. It involves placing a small microphone in the ear canal and measuring the sound that reaches the eardrum while the hearing aid is in use. This helps to ensure that the hearing aid is programmed to the precise level needed for the individual’s hearing loss. Without real ear measurements, it’s impossible to know whether the hearing aids are meeting the individual’s hearing loss prescription. The lack of real ear measurement can lead to improperly programmed devices that do not provide the necessary amplification for the individual’s hearing loss.
Limitations of OTC hearing aids without in-person support
OTC hearing aids often come with no in-person support, making it difficult to ensure that the devices are working effectively. Although OTC hearing aid manufacturers may provide programming instructions or online support and possible video call support, it cannot compare to the expertise and precision of an audiologist and not a call center employee.
Potential consequences of improper programming
Improperly programmed hearing aids can lead to a variety of negative consequences for the user’s hearing health. If the hearing aid is not programmed to the individual’s precise level of hearing loss, it may not provide adequate amplification, making it difficult to hear and understand speech. This can cause frustration, social isolation, and depression. Additionally, over-amplification can cause discomfort and even damage to the user’s hearing.
Limited Warranty and Return Policy: The Downsides of Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids
One of the most significant issues is the limited warranty and return policy that often comes with an OTC device.
OTC hearing aids often come with a warranty of one year or less. Cheap PSAP devices may not have any return policy. In contrast, prescription hearing aids come with longer warranty periods (2-3 years) and the option to extend that warranty period. There is also a trial period with the hearing aids that are at least 45 days. The length and extent of the warranty period and trial period vary depending on the manufacturer and the model of the hearing aid. However, in general, prescription hearing aids come with more comprehensive and flexible warranties than OTC devices.
Professional Care and Maintenance
Prescription hearing aids also come with professional care and maintenance to ensure that the devices work well for a long time. Hearing care professionals provide ongoing support and maintenance, including regular check-ups, cleaning, and adjustments to the device’s programming. Without professional care and maintenance, hearing aids can become less effective over time, leading to reduced benefits and increased frustration for the user.
Insurance Policies
Most prescription hearing aids also come with insurance policies that allow for replacement devices in case of loss or damage. Insurance policies can provide peace of mind for individuals who rely on their hearing aids every day. The cost of replacement devices can be significant, and insurance policies can help mitigate that cost, ensuring that individuals can continue to use their hearing aids without interruption.
Technology Differences between OTC and Prescription Hearing Aids
While OTC hearing aids may be appealing due to their affordability and accessibility, it’s important to understand that there are significant differences in technology between OTC and prescription hearing aids. These differences can have a major impact on the effectiveness of the devices and the quality of life of the user.
Prescription hearing aids from companies like Oticon, Phonak, Starkey, Resound, and Signia are loaded with advanced features including Bluetooth connectivity, background noise reduction, and advanced programming software to optimize performance. The companies have literally invested millions over the last century into background noise reduction.
In contrast, OTC hearing aids often lack these advanced features and may have limited programming options. They may advertise background noise suppression but don’t forget the old adage: You get what you pay for. This can lead to a less personalized listening experience and reduced benefits for the user.
There are Affordable Professionally Fit Hearing Aids.
- Basic or economy-level hearing aids are generally more affordable but provide fewer features than their high-end counterparts.
- You still get the professional services of an audiologist.
- Phonak, Oticon, GN Resound, Widex, and Starkey are the top hearing aid manufacturers, and they offer affordable hearing aid models with advanced features and technology.
- The Phonak Audéo Lumity 30, Oticon More 3, GN Resound Omnia 5, Widex Moment 110, and Starkey Evolv AI 1200 are five of the top affordable hearing aid models from these manufacturers.
- Read about the hearing aid manufacturers that I have found to be best.