Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids
This August the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a rule that will improve access to hearing aids and lower the cost of hearing aids for individuals within the U.S. Specifically, this rule has created a new category of over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids, which will make it easier and more affordable for individuals who are hard of hearing to purchase them.
Until now, the purchase of hearing aids has required a formal hearing test and prescription from an audiologist. The OTC hearing aids are for those with mild to moderate hearing loss. It’s currently estimated that one in eight people within the country aged 12 years or older have hearing loss in both ears.
How Much Will Americans Save On OTC Hearing Aids?
The White House estimates that an individual who uses OTC hearing aids could save up to $3,000. Some OTC hearing aids will range from $200 to $800.
Where Are OTC Hearing Aids Available?
OTC hearing aids are available for purchase in big-box stores and local pharmacies across the U.S. as well as online.
Additional Considerations
While OTC hearing aids will provide more affordable and easier access to many individuals, it’s important to keep in mind that sometimes a visit to the doctor for a medical assessment is needed (some people might have significant health issues causing their hearing loss, among other possible concerns). Another consideration is that a one-size hearing aid might not fit you or your loved one, which would then require a proper fitting by a doctor. Lastly, there will be many types of hearing aids available on the market and it will be up to you, the consumer, to research the best options for your needs (or a loved one's needs) to ensure you purchase the most effective hearing aids.
SimplyHome Technology Options For Hard of Hearing Individuals
The following assistive technology options provided by SimplyHome can help individuals who are hard of hearing live independent lives while giving loved ones peace of mind they are safe.
SimplyHome System: This system addresses primary concerns through the use of sensors for building independence while creating a safe home environment. Motion sensors and stove sensors can be used to proactively inform family members/staff if the individual might be engaging in unsafe and/or unhealthy behavior while also creating alerts that cue appropriate behaviors (such as forgetting to turn the stove off after cooking or opening the front door at odd hours of the night). Our technology can also adapt over time as the individual’s abilities develop or if their supportive living priorities change.
Lamp Control: A smart light bulb can be integrated into the SimplyHome System to allow for lamps to be triggered for alerting purposes. For example, the lamp can flash slowly in a particular color when the doorbell is pressed or a different color if motion during a certain timeframe is detected. The primary purpose is to visually alert the individual when some actions are needed (such as answering the door).
Smoke Alarm + Bed Shaker + Strobe Lights: Smoke alarm monitors can be paired with strobe lights and a bed shaker. For example, if the smoke alarm were to go off, strobe lights could activate and the bed could shake to notify the individual if there is an emergency. Natural supports can also be notified outside of the home to assist in dealing with the emergency.
Ring Video Doorbell: The Ring Video Doorbell can capture video based on motion, the doorbell being pressed, or both. This helps to alert the individual if someone is at the door. It can also send a notification to a smartphone or tablet to allow the individual to view who is outside, and the two-way speaker can allow the option to dismiss a visitor or unknown party without having to open the door. The goal is not only to create teachable opportunities for how to safely address visitors but also to provide supports with some additional peace of mind.
The above are effective solutions for hard-of-hearing individuals to live independent lives on their terms without compromising safety.
Enabling Technology To Support Independent Living with SimplyHome
SimplyHome designs and installs innovative and affordable technology solutions that transform how we care for individuals with disabilities, aging adults, and veterans.
Our sensor-based systems can adapt over time to alleviate concerns about cooking safety, medication adherence, and the risk of wandering or falls. We work with service providers, managed care organizations (MCOs), and families to mitigate challenges. Caregivers are notified only when they are needed, promoting the highest level of independence possible for the individual.