If you’ve heard of over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids, then you may have also heard you don’t need a prescription to purchase them. OTC devices can function as a self-serve option and are now available.
What Are the Benefits of Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids?
Increasing the accessibility to hearing loss treatment is one of Midwest Hearing’s top priorities. According to one study, almost 86% of Americans who are age 50 and older with hearing loss do not wear hearing aids. Untreated hearing loss has been linked to isolation, cognitive difficulties and increased falls.
Typically, OTC hearing aids benefit adults who experience mild hearing loss and only need sound amplification. While these devices may work for some adults, prescription hearing aids offer customization and features to meet most everyone’s hearing needs. The National Institutes of Health recommends prescription hearing aids for children with any level of hearing difficulty and people who do not hear louder sounds or struggle to hear conversations in quiet settings.
An Audiologist Plays an Important Role
An audiologist does more than provide you with hearing aids. Every patient’s needs are different, and our audiologists will provide you with recommendations for hearing loss treatment that best fits your lifestyle, whether it is an OTC hearing aid or a prescription hearing aid. Midwest Hearing audiologists and audiology technicians will teach you how to use your new hearing aid so you can begin this new phase of your life with confidence.
Across numerous studies, the top three reasons for hearing aid abandonment were background noise, lack of benefit and poor sound quality. These are common issues that a Midwest Hearing audiologist can address.
An audiologist will also determine if a more serious medical condition is causing your hearing loss and connect you with the appropriate care, which could be overlooked if you seek treatment alone.
Additionally, our providers offer ongoing support as you navigate hearing loss treatment. Your hearing loss may change with time and require adjustments to your hearing aids. Our team can do that for you with walk-in access at four locations in the Twin Cities area.
Bottom line: when you work with Midwest Hearing, you have a partner for your hearing loss journey. You aren’t in it alone.
Hearing Aids Are the Start of the Journey
Managing hearing loss isn’t a one-time event—it’s an ongoing process that includes monitoring and management over time. When you visit Midwest Hearing for a hearing evaluation and consultation, you aren’t just buying a product; you’re entering a partnership. We strive to empower EVERYONE to live without limitations.
Call Midwest Hearing at (651) 702-0750 for more information or to schedule an appointment.