Hearing loss is a prevalent issue affecting numerous Americans, and cases of hearing loss are projected to increase in the years ahead. So, you’re definitely not alone on your journey!
I know that understanding what to do about hearing loss can be difficult. And that’s why we’ve put together this all-encompassing guide to help you explore your options
Keep These Factors in Mind When Evaluating Your Options
Before diving into your available options, it’s crucial to consider some essential factors that will shape your decision. Hearing loss solutions aren’t one size fits all.
These factors include:
- The specific degree and nature of your hearing loss
- Your lifestyle and the environments you frequent
- Your preference for in-person interactions or remote assistance
- Your budget and whether you seek a premium or cost-effective solution
- Your preference for a local establishment or a larger corporation
With these aspects in mind, let’s explore the range of treatment possibilities for hearing loss.
Exploring Treatment Options for Hearing Loss
There are many options for various budgets, needs, and circumstances. These options range in price from economical to high-end:
- Earphones and Mobile Apps [$0-$250]
- Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids [$800-$2500]
- Personal Sound Amplification Products (PSAPs) [$79-$1250]
- Online Hearing Aids with Remote Audiology Support [$1850-$2400]
- Retail Chains [$1250-$4000]
- Audiology Clinics [$2500-$7500]
- Cochlear Implant Surgery for Hearing Loss [$30,000-$50,000]
While all of these solutions provide assistance for hearing loss, they differ significantly in their approaches. Let’s dive into each option in greater detail.
Earphones and Mobile Apps
These apps use your device’s microphone to amplify sounds. While these apps are affordable—many have free trials—they do have limitations.
Pros:
- Inexpensive
- Only requires a cell phone and earphones
Cons:
- Only works in environments with little background noise
- Requires you to sit in a specific position
- Makes all sounds louder
- Doesn’t include any support
Over-The-Counter Hearing Aids
This ruling resulted in a lot of confusion, which still exists. Many people believe that these over-the-counter devices are all they need to fix their hearing.
The biggest concern that we have as hearing care professionals is that people will self-prescribe a solution to their hearing loss without knowing what type and degree of hearing loss they even have.
We have experience testing thousands of people’s hearing. And we’ve learned that often, people think their hearing loss is less severe than it actually is. Only when their hearing is professionally tested do we discover that they actually have a moderate to severe hearing loss.
Pros:
- Easily accessible
- Can be purchased via your computer
- Very competitively priced
Cons:
- Not tailored to your hearing loss
- Don’t require testing
- Must fit them yourself, which could lead to discomfort
- No support outside of your 90-day returns period
- No warranty if you lose or damage them
- Only appropriate for mild to moderate hearing loss
Personal Sound Amplification Products (PSAPs)
Pros:
- Easy to purchase
- Can be inexpensive
Cons:
- Not tailored to your specific needs
- Need to fit them yourself
- No support outside of your return window
- No warranty if you happen to lose or damage them
- Amplifies all sounds, including background noise
Online Hearing Aids with Remote Audiology Support/Direct to Consumer
Pros:
- Convenient
- Easy to purchase
- Sometimes comes with a money-back guarantee
- Developed by reputable manufacturers
Cons:
- Online hearing assessments can be inaccurate.
- No in-person support
- You’re often meeting with different audiologists each time you seek care.
Big Box Retail Stores
Costco and similar stores require hearing assessments to gauge your hearing loss level. They offer their own brand of devices as well as technology from reputable manufacturers, with warranties ranging from one to three years.
Pros:
- Convenient
- Easy to purchase
- Sometimes comes with a money-back guarantee
- Developed by reputable manufacturers
Cons:
- Online hearing assessments can be inaccurate
- No in-person support
- You’re often meeting with different audiologists each time you seek care.
Local Audiology Clinics
Pros:
- You’ll receive ongoing support.
- You can use insurance.
- Payment plans may be available.
- You’ll receive a warranty.
- You’ll receive personalized care.
Cons:
- You will need to attend multiple appointments.
Cochlear Implant Surgery for Severe Hearing Loss
Pros:
- Can benefit those suffering from a severe hearing loss
Cons:
- Candidacy requirements are specific — you need to be approved.
- Can potentially be costly
- Requires surgery
How to Decide
I hope this helps to clarify your options. The best hearing loss solution depends on your unique needs, circumstances, and preferences – no single approach suits all.
Considering your hearing loss degree, lifestyle, and budget will guide your choice. And if you need more support, we’re always here to help and provide you with tailored advice!
To get in touch, complete the “Request a Callback” form or call our:
Pensacola office at 850-474-8328
Gulf Breeze location at 850-969-2327
