During the last year, over-the-counter or OTC hearing aids have gotten a lot of attention, but how do they compare to prescription hearing aids? Here, we’ll evaluate that very question by explaining who can benefit from over-the-counter hearing devices and what happens after you get them. Then, we’ll walk you through the process of getting hearing aids prescribed by an audiologist and explain how prescription hearing aids are often the best choice for better hearing results.
Who Can Benefit From OTC Hearing Aids?
First, it’s important to realize that the purpose of over-the-counter hearing aids is to make hearing loss treatment accessible to more people. With that in mind, OTC hearing aids may initially be more affordable or convenient than prescription devices. That’s because there’s no hearing professional involved or hearing test required to purchase them. However, they are only intended for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss.
What Happens After You Get OTC Hearing Aids?
Once you’ve purchased a set of over-the-counter hearing aids, it’s time to take them home and get them set up. Follow the instructions included with the devices to maximize their operation, features, and benefits.
It’s important to note that with OTC hearing aids, you won’t have an audiologist or other hearing professional by your side to adjust them according to your needs. You’re on your own! Some people enjoy this feeling of freedom but DIY hearing loss treatment rarely produces the same level of results as working with a hearing professional.
Who Can Benefit From Prescription Hearing Aids?
Prescription hearing aids can be beneficial for individuals with mild, moderate, or even severe hearing loss. The process of getting prescription hearing aids begins with recognizing you may have a hearing problem and scheduling an appointment with an audiologist.
After a hearing test and thorough hearing evaluation, your audiologist will discuss the results with you and let you know if you do, in fact, have hearing loss. If you do, you’ll also know the type of hearing loss and its severity. With this valuable information, your audiologist can then recommend effective hearing loss treatment methods.
While not the only solution, prescription hearing aids are often part of a comprehensive hearing loss treatment plan. Your audiologist will help you choose the hearing aids that best meet your hearing needs, fit your budget, and match your lifestyle.
What Happens After You Get Prescription Hearing Aids?
Choosing the best hearing aids and wearing them daily is only the beginning of your hearing loss treatment journey. When you work closely with an audiologist, you’ll schedule regular office visits to manage your hearing health.
During these office visits, your audiologist may conduct additional hearing testing or routine hearing evaluations. This is because your hearing needs will change over time. As hearing changes become evident, your hearing aids can be adjusted so they continue to help you hear better. Or, if they’re no longer working properly and can’t be adjusted further to meet your needs, you may need to get a new set of hearing aids from time to time.
Hearing aid maintenance is also a significant part of your hearing loss treatment journey. When your devices are properly maintained, they’ll last longer and continue to serve you well. Your audiologist can explain basic maintenance tasks you can do on your own and even help with minor repairs to keep your devices in working order.
Where Can You Get Prescription Hearing Aids in Mesa or Scottsdale, AZ?
If you’re looking for the best prescription hearing aids in or around Mesa or Scottsdale, look no further than Advanced Hearing Group. We have hearing clinics in Mesa, North Scottsdale, and South Scottsdale, each staffed with experienced audiologists who care about YOU and your hearing health.
With us, there’s no one-size-fits-all hearing loss treatment. We evaluate each individual’s hearing capabilities and make recommendations based on test results, your preferences, your budget, and even your lifestyle. Schedule an appointment with us today and get on the road to hearing well so you can live well!
