Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids, PSAPS & More. What’s the Difference

There are many options on the market for those looking for hearing aids. It can be overwhelming to try and figure out what is the best option for you. This blog post will discuss the differences between over-the-counter hearing aids, personal sound amplification products and more! This post will also provide information on how to choose the right device for you.

Who Needs a Hearing Aid?

Hearing aids are not just for the elderly. Anyone who is experiencing hearing loss can benefit from wearing a hearing aid. Hearing loss can be caused by many things, including:

• Exposure to loud noise: This can be from work, leisure activities or even medical procedures.
• Age: Hearing loss is a natural part of aging.
• Injury: A blow to the head can cause hearing loss.
• Disease: There are many diseases that can lead to hearing loss, such as meningitis or mumps.

There Are Many Benefits to Wearing a Hearing Aid

When talking to your hearing health professional, you may want to know the benefits of wearing a hearing aid. Here are some of the benefits to wearing hearing aids:

• Improved communication: Hearing aids can help you to communicate better with others and improve the way you work.
• Decreased isolation: Hearing aids can help you feel more connected to the world around you.
• Increased safety: Wearing a hearing aid can help you hear warnings and danger signals.
• Better mental health: Hearing loss can lead to depression and anxiety. Wearing a hearing aid can improve your mental health.

How to Choose a Hearing Aid

Choosing a hearing aid that is right for you will depend on your lifestyle, severity of loss and your budget. Talk to your hearing health professional to see which hearing aid they think would benefit you the most, whether it be behind the ear (BTE), in the ear (ITE) or in the canal (ITC). Here are some things to consider when choosing the right hearing aid:

• Your lifestyle: Your hearing aid should be comfortable and convenient for your lifestyle. If you are active, you may want a different type of hearing aid than someone who is less active.
• Your budget: You should consider your budget when choosing a hearing aid.
• Your needs: You should choose a hearing aid that meets your specific needs. If you have a lot of trouble hearing high frequencies, you may want a different type of hearing aid than someone who has trouble hearing low frequencies.
• Your preference: Ultimately, you should choose a hearing aid that you are comfortable with and that you think will work best for you.

If you are considering wearing a hearing aid, it is important to consult with a hearing health professional. They can help you figure out which type of hearing aid is right for you, and they can also provide guidance on how to use and care for your new device.

Personal Sound Amplification Products (PSAPs)

Personal sound amplification products are devices that are designed to amplify sound. They are not considered medical devices and do not require a prescription. PSAPs can be purchased over the counter at stores or online.

PSAPs are similar to over-the-counter hearing aids but are not regulated by the FDA. PSAPs can be purchased without a prescription and are less cost effective than traditional hearing aids. PSAPs are not meant to treat hearing loss but rather to amplify sound for those with normal hearing.

Over-the-counter (OTC) Hearing Aids

OTC hearing aids are hearing aids that can be purchased without a prescription. In 2022, the FDA released new guidelines for OTC hearing aids. Under these regulations, OTC hearing aids must:

• Purchaser must be 18 years or older
• No medical exam
• No prescription
• No fitting by a hearing health professional
• No need for licensed seller

Over-the-counter hearing aids are becoming more popular as technology improves. However, over-the-counter hearing aids may not be right for everyone. If you have moderate-to-severe hearing loss, you will likely need a custom-fitted device that is not available over the counter. You should also be aware that over-the-counter hearing aids may not provide the same level of amplification as a prescription hearing aid.

If you are considering purchasing a hearing aid, learn more about Park Place Hearing Center and contact us today at (707) 283-7853. We can help you figure out which type of hearing aid is right for you and provide guidance on how to use and care for your new device.