Page 5 - Senior Times South Central Michigan June 2023 - 30-06

Senior Times - June 2023 Page 5
ARE OVER-THE-COUNTER HEARING AIDS WORTH IT?
By: Kim Kragt, CCC-A, MA, Bronson Constance Brown Hearing Center
of being controlled through a smartphone app. If you select a hearing aid that uses an app, you may be able to have it adjusted by your hearing specialist remotely.
Hearing tests are recommended every two years starting at age 45, or sooner if you are at risk of hearing loss.
I am often asked, “What about those hearing aids that are being sold over-the- counter?”
A hearing test may also rule out if your hearing loss is related to a medical issue. As a member of Bronson Medical Group, our audiologists work closely with Bronson’s ear, nose and throat specialists and can con- nect you to them for treatment, if needed.
It’s important to note that these hearing aids are not the same as devices provided at audiology clinics and hearing centers. The FDA recently approved over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids to increase access for those who want something basic; however, there is a big difference between OTC and prescription devices.
Patients also benefit from having hearing visits at Bronson Constance Brown Hearing Center included in their Bronson MyChart account, which keeps all of their electronic medical records in one place.
OTC hearing aids are a basic option for those with mild to moderate hearing loss who are 18 years of age or older. OTC hear- ing aids cost between $1,000 and $2,000 and can be found online or at a pharmacy. They are a standard fit and have limited settings. A user must be comfortable setting the hear- ing aid up on their own using a smartphone and making their own adjustments.
Think you might need hearing aids?
Although OTC hearing aids may offer improved hearing without the expertise of an audiologist, there are some drawbacks. There is no guarantee it will meet your needs. Also, without a proper hearing test, you would not know if your hearing loss was caused by an underlying health condition.
The cost difference between OTC and prescription hearing aids varies based on several factors. Although prescription hear- ing aids may cost more upfront, they come with a consultation and some insurance pro- viders cover a portion of the cost. It’s also important to consider long-term expenses such as batteries and how often the device will need to be replaced. OTC hearing aids may need to be replaced more often, which may end up being more costly in the long run.
With our range of advanced hearing devices and personalized services, you can take con- trol of your hearing health and get the most out of life. Call (269) 343-2601 to learn more or visit bronsonhealth.com/hearing. No matter where you are in your journey to better hearing, we’ll help find a solution for you.
Prescription hearing aids are an option for all ages and are only offered through audiology and hearing aid clinics. A hearing specialist assesses your condition and makes sure you will get the best results from your hearing device. The process includes a hear- ing test and a fitting by a professional. There are also more style choices and options for a proper and more comfortable fit.
Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids vs. Prescription. Hearing aids provided by audiologists are considered prescription devices and are not sold over the counter (OTC). We recommend having your hear- ing evaluated at Bronson Constance Brown Hearing Center before making the decision to purchase an OTC device.
Prescription devices also have the option
How do I know which option is right for me? Even if you are considering an OTC hearing aid, we recommend you have a professional hearing exam. We are happy to help you diagnose your hearing loss and compare hearing aid options so you can make an informed decision.
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