You are using an older browser version. Please use a supported version for the best MSN experience.

How To Find the Best Hearing Aids Near Me: Audiologists & Centers [USA]

Kansas City Star 3/30/2023 Apostol Todorovski, The Kansas City Star

.h6, h6 { font: 0.75rem var(—sans); text-transform: none } We may earn a commission if you make a purchase through one of our links. The newsroom and editorial staff were not involved in the creation of this content.

Looking for “hearing aids near me” used to require visiting an audiologist’s office, as stated in several consumer guides. However, the Food and Drug Administration created a new classification for over-the-counter hearing aids and approved them for sale in October 2022 [1].

This is a big deal since it means more people who need hearing aids can get their hands on them. Those looking to buy hearing aids can now do so in person with an audiologist or remotely.

Hearing aids may be purchased without a hearing exam, although experts advise against doing so.

The market for hearing aids has come a long way, and now consumers have many choices among different brands of high-quality devices. This article will explore what to expect when you search for “hearing aids near me.”

div.learn-more-red{ margin-top: 20px; } .learn-more-red a{ background-position: left; color: #fff; padding: 15px 10px; border: 1px #A30100 solid; text-decoration: none; font-family: Noto Serif; background: linear-gradient(to left, #A30100 50%, #BE4D4C 50%) right; background-size: 200%; font-size: 18px; font-weight: 500; transition: .5s ease-out; } .learn-more-red a:hover{ text-decoration: none; font-size: 18px; background-position: left; border: 1px #B53332 solid; color: #fff; font-weight: 500; } Check the best price for Jabra Enhance

Buy OTC Hearing Aids Near Me Online

Can I get the best hearing aids near me online? Hearing aids may be purchased from various sources, including online and brick-and-mortar retailers. High-quality, budget-friendly, over-the-counter hearing aids are available from a few manufacturers.

In addition, some companies that sell hearing aids over the counter also give virtual consultations with an audiologist to provide suggestions and modifications specific to your hearing aid.

Visit a Hearing Clinic for Hearing Aids Near Me

How do I get hearing aids near me? Getting hearing aids on a doctor’s prescription begins with a consultation and hearing test with an audiologist or hearing instrument expert at a hearing care facility.

It is the job of an audiologist, someone with a master’s degree in audiology, to assess a patient’s hearing ability and recommend the best course of treatment.

Meanwhile, hearing instrument experts are qualified to help with the fitting and programming of hearing aids, thanks to their college degrees.

Purchase Prescription Hearing Aids Near Me Through a Discount Network

You can save 20% on hearing aids and 15% on accessories if you’re an AARP member. With a vast national network of hearing providers, you may also get a free hearing test and individualized assistance. Even without a UnitedHealthcare health insurance policy, members can still access AARP Hearing Solutions.

If you are a veteran, you can contact your nearby Veteran Affairs (VA) healthcare facility to book an appointment with an audiologist, undergo a hearing examination, and select the most suitable hearing aid.

Buy OTC Hearing Aids Near Me in Stores

The following is a compilation of local retail stores that offer OTC hearing aids near me and other health-related products, as mentioned earlier. It is advised to verify their stock before making a purchase.

Best Buy
CVS
Walgreens
Walmart
Victra Verizon

Online vs. In-person Hearing Aids Near Me

Is there any difference between buying hearing aids near me online and getting hearing aids near me in person? Hearing aids should be purchased at a clinic where a specialist can immediately ensure a proper fit and resolve problems. When shopping for hearing aids, however, the option to do it from the comfort of one’s own home is a major plus for online retailers.

Several retailers, like Jabra, provide the best online hearing tests to help customers who purchase hearing aids over the counter.

Hearing Aids Near Me: How To Choose the Right One

Since there are many hearing aids near me, how do I choose? There are a few things to consider while deciding which is best for you.

If you’re on the fence about purchasing a hearing aid due to aesthetic or practical concerns, arming yourself with facts may help you make an informed decision.

Choices of hearing aids currently on the market
Useful tips for adjusting to a hearing aid

You must realize that hearing aids can’t magically make your hearing as good as new. In contrast, they may help you hear better by amplifying sounds.

How Hearing Aids Work

All hearing aids work on the same principle: they take in ambient noise, process it, and then provide the amplified signal to the ear.

Most modern hearing aids are computerized and run on rechargeable or standard batteries. These gadgets have tiny microphones that record ambient noise.

A computer chip with an amplifier converts the incoming sound to digital code and then modifies it depending on your hearing loss, preferences, and ambient noise level.

The amplified signals are converted into audible waves and sent to listeners through speakers or receivers.

Hearing Aid Styles

Can I customize the styles of hearing aids near me? A hearing aid’s placement in the ear and its size, cost, and features may all be customized to the wearer’s needs. The industry as a whole is developing smaller, less noticeable hearing aids.

On the other hand, the degree of sound amplification provided by these smaller aids may not be sufficient for certain people. These are some of the most popular types of hearing aids, listed from most discreet to most obvious.

Completely in the Canal (CIC) Or Mini CIC

Adults with mild to moderate hearing loss may benefit from a hearing aid called a completely-in-the-canal device because it fits discreetly and comfortably within the ear canal. A completely-in- the- canal hearing aid:

Is readily inhibited by earwax accumulation
Offers granular volume controls or the ability to install a directional microphone
Will be less likely to pick up wind noises
Is powered by tiny, fragile, and difficult-to-handle batteries
Smallest and least noticeable of the lot

In the Canal

An in-ear hearing device is custom-made to rest partly inside the ear canal. It may significantly help people with mild to moderate hearing loss. An in-the-canal hearing aid:

Fits more discreetly in the ear canal than in other styles
Has certain unique features not seen on other in-canal aids; however, setting it up may be difficult
Is readily inhibited by earwax accumulation

In the Ear

You may get ITE hearing aids in either a complete shell, which covers the whole bowl-shaped portion of the outer ear, or a half shell, which covers just the bottom section.

These designs are great for those with moderate to profound hearing loss because they have directional microphones that boost clarity even amid background noise. An in-the-ear hearing aid:

Is readily inhibited by earwax accumulation
Has a higher potential for wind noise pickup
Uses a larger battery to increase runtime and comes with various rechargeable battery options.
Has features like a volume control absent from smaller models
Compared to other, less obvious devices, it sticks out more in the ear
Is easier to use

Behind the Ear

Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids are worn discreetly behind the ear and loop over the top. It has a tube that goes into an ear mold molded to the user’s ear canal.

Everyone, from young children to the elderly, including those with mild to severe hearing loss, may benefit from this device. A behind-the-ear hearing aid:

Has more potential for amplification than other types
Picks up wind noise
Includes a rechargeable battery
Has directional microphones for precise sound capture
Is very discreet

Receiver in Canal or Receiver in the Ear

Similar to a behind-the-ear device, the RIC and RITE types of hearing aids contain a speaker or receiver in the ear canal. In place of tubing, a thin cable connects the component behind the ear to the audio system. A receiver-in-canal hearing aid:

Discreetly tucks behind the ear
Has earwax-blocking speakers
Features built-in directional microphones
Offers a rechargeable battery alternative

Open Fit

The open-fit hearing aid is comparable to the behind-the-ear hearing aid or the receiver-in-the-canal or receiver-in-the-ear hearing aid.

It incorporates a slender tube or an open dome that preserves the ear canal’s openness, enabling low-frequency sounds to enter organically and high-frequency sounds to be magnified by the hearing aid.

This layout is appropriate for those with mild to moderate high-frequency hearing loss and improved low-frequency hearing. An open-fit hearing aid:

Helps you hear your voice more clearly since sound isn’t trapped in the ear canal like traditional hearing aids
Features non-custom domes that may be harder to place into the ear canal

Before You Buy Hearing Aids Near Me

It’s vital to try out a few different options before settling on a hearing aid to ensure you get the one that works best for your ears. Moreover, it is suggested that you consider the following factors.

Degree and Type of Hearing Loss

While looking for suitable hearing aids near me, it might be helpful to consider the kind and severity of the hearing loss. A specialized hearing aid may be necessary for someone with severe or profound hearing loss to hear speech and other noises.

Those with moderate or mild hearing loss, however, have additional choices.

Lifestyle

Think about what you like to do in your spare time and your regular schedule. For those who like to work out in the great outdoors, a hearing aid that can withstand moisture might be an excellent investment.

On the other hand, the automatic sound adjustment hearing aid Eargo 6 is an excellent option if you often attend parties. To get the most out of your hearing aid, it should be a good fit for how you live.

Budget for Hearing Aids Near Me

How much should I set aside for hearing aids near me? Many people place a high priority on financial considerations when deciding to purchase a hearing aid. Unfortunately, not all hearing aid prices are covered by either Medicare or private insurance.

Based on our research, we found that when looking for a new pair of the best cheapest hearing aids, most consumers ranked price as the second most significant consideration after the convenience of setup and usage.

That said, half of the people surveyed in a 2020 research on hearing aids had some hearing loss, while just 3.5% used hearing aids [2]. While there may be other contributing factors, many people’s inability to afford hearing aids is a major barrier to their use.

On October 17, 2022, the FDA approved a regulation to sell less expensive hearing aids over the counter without a prescription or an audiologist’s assessment [3].

Brand names such as Audien and MDHearing aids for police officers are available for between $100 to $1,900, substantially less than what you would pay from other vendors.

But, before choosing a certain hearing aid, it is vital to enquire about extra expenditures, such as fits and maintenance.

Hearing Aid Near Me Company Websites

Where can I get the best hearing aids near me? Once you have determined your budget and desired hearing aid style, you should visit the websites of the brands you are interested in. These businesses typically offer valuable product information, such as features and pricing, through their online platforms.

Moreover, contacting their customer service representatives can assist in resolving any questions you may have before purchasing.

Company Reputation and Reviews for Hearing Aids Near Me

To ensure a company’s credibility, it is recommended to check its status on third-party websites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Trustpilot.

While it’s important to go through customer feedback, BBB offers a comprehensive view of a company’s reputation, allowing you to assess its business practices.

Customer reviews can be unreliable as some companies may offer incentives like free products to customers for writing favorable reviews, leading to biased reviews. It’s often challenging to authenticate the reviews you read.

However, BBB’s business ratings are not solely based on customer feedback but also consider other factors such as:

Problem-solving record
Administrative or judicial action against the corporation for not obtaining licenses or permissions
Openness varies (showing how the company does business)
Operation duration
Complaints history

It is crucial to take into account a company’s business rating and reviews to evaluate its dependability. Neglecting any part of this information may lead to an inadequate perception of the company’s credibility.

Customer Service Options for Hearing Aids Near Me

When purchasing hearing aids from an online over-the-counter (OTC) company, verifying the brand’s available customer support options is crucial.

It is recommended to select a company that offers various methods of communication, including phone, email, online chat, and video consultations.

Customer-Friendly Policies for Hearing Aids Near Me

Here are some policies that may affect the decision to get hearing aids near me.

Warranties for Hearing Aids Near Me

It is advisable to carefully review the warranty length and terms before purchasing. Always ask about extending the warranty and its associated charges.

Although most companies offer a one- to three-year warranty, not all warranties are identical.

For instance, Jabra Enhance provides unlimited repairs, loss, and damage coverage for three years. In contrast, the Eargo warranty covers unlimited repairs and only one replacement during a one-year to two-year warranty period, varying with the model.

Risk-free Trial Periods for Hearing Aids Near Me

It is important to ensure that a hearing aid company offers a trial period with no risk involved before committing to their services. Most states mandate that hearing aid companies provide a 30-day trial period.

The Hearing Loss Association of America has a comprehensive list of each state’s hearing aid trial period requirements. Within this trial period, you may return the hearing aids and receive a full or partial refund [4].

It is important to allow yourself enough time to adjust to the hearing aidsand to receive any necessary support from the hearing specialist before making a final decision.

If you are still experiencing hearing difficulties or discomfort, you may want to return the hearing aids and try another style or brand.

Price-Lock Guarantees for Hearing Aids Near Me

In addition to the initial purchase price of hearing aids, there may be extra maintenance, adjustment, and repair fees.

To avoid unexpected costs, it is recommended to ask the hearing aid provider if they offer a price guarantee, which means they will not raise the fees for these services for a certain period or for as long as you own the hearing aids.

Features To Look For in Hearing Aids Near Me

What important features do the best hearing aids near me have? Much progress has been made in the previous two decades in hearing aids.

The most up-to-date hearing aids include improvements over older models, including smaller and more aesthetically pleasing designs, rechargeable batteries, enhanced noise filtering, Bluetooth connectivity for streaming music, and app-based management.

Understanding how these novel creations might improve your life is essential. In light of this, let’s look at these developments in hearing aid technology.

Battery Type of Hearing Aids Near Me

Rechargeable and disposable batteries are both accessible for use in hearing aids. Both have advantages and disadvantages, but most people who wear hearing aids prefer the convenience of rechargeable batteries.

Disposable battery variants are available from manufacturers like MDHearing, even though the best-rated hearing aids utilize rechargeable batteries. Disposable batteries are generally used in hearing aids unless the manufacturer specifically states otherwise.

One major benefit of rechargeable batteries is that you never have to buy new ones. The hearing aids may be charged overnight in the carrying case and used the following day.

Water Resistance

You may ask, are hearing aids near me water resistant? Most up-to-date hearing aids can be used even if they become wet. Among the most popular hearing aid brands today, only Audien doesn’t offer water-resistant models.

Water-resistant hearing aids are not waterproof and may be harmed by exposure to moisture over time. Because it is expensive to repair a hearing aid, keeping them out of the water whenever possible is important.

The Starkey business recommends taking out hearing aids before doing activities where they could be exposed to water for an extended period like:

Working or exercising outside in hot weather
Showering or taking a bath
Spraying your hair with hairspray or other products
Blow-drying your hair
Going to bed
Using a sauna
Swimming

Bluetooth Capability of Hearing Aids Near Me

How can Bluetooth improve my experience with the best hearing aids near me, you may ask. With Bluetooth technology, wearers may transform their hearing aids into premium headphones at the touch of a button. Bluetooth allows hearing aids to send and receive wireless signals with other devices.

Bluetooth capability on both ends is required for two electronic gadgets to communicate. If both your hearing aids and TV support Bluetooth, for instance, you may pair them by selecting the Bluetooth option on each.

That way, you may listen to TV using your hearing aids wirelessly. Hearing aids allow you to adjust the volume to your liking, so you may watch TV in a quieter setting without bothering anybody else.

In addition, you may use your hearing aids for making phone calls or taking part in video chats thanks to Bluetooth, which is included on most smartphones and tablets.

There is a difference between Bluetooth connection and Bluetooth streaming that should be kept in mind while dealing with hearing aids. Several hearing aids, such as Eargo, provide Bluetooth connection but lack streaming features.

While the hearing aids may be connected wirelessly to other devices like a charger or smartphone app, they will not function as media players or telephones themselves.

Consequently, before purchasing a hearing aid, it is essential to know the sort of Bluetooth connection it provides.

Smartphone Apps

The newest generation of the best Bluetooth hearing aids makes it possible to adjust the volume and listening profiles from the convenience of your smartphone.

Moreover, some hearing aid manufacturers enable audiologists to connect to your hearing aids and make distance adjustments using their mobile app.

If you’re a fan of your smartphone’s apps and consider yourself technologically sophisticated, this function may be an asset to your hearing aid.

Technology for Improved Listening Experience

What other features are available in hearing aids near me? Along with Bluetooth, some hearing aids offer the following advanced features:

Automatic sound adjustments: Several types of hearing aids and assistive listening devices enable users to manually or automatically modify listening profiles based on environmental factors. For example, the Eargo 6’s Sound Adjust feature automatically adapts the hearing aid’s volume and tone to the user’s surroundings. Hence, it is easy on the ears and pleasant to listen to.
Background noise reduction:The ability to focus on close noises and conversations while simultaneously decreasing distracting background noise is made possible by digital noise reduction features in hearing aids.
Directional microphones:Microphones in hearing aids are placed to improve frontal detection while reducing side and rear sound levels. Certain hearing aid devices have directional microphones to further assist with listening in background noise.
Feedback cancellation: Feedback, a whistling sound created by a hearing aid in the user’s ear, was a prevalent problem in the past. Nevertheless, this issue has been remedied in subsequent versions by adding a feedback cancellation option that is especially helpful when on the phone.
Telecoil: T-coil hearing aids, also known as telecoils, allow users to connect with other devices and buildings equipped with a hearing loop, such as theaters and places of worship. While telecoil technology is available on many hearing aids, its compact size means it may not be included in completely-in-canal models.

Customization Options of Hearing Aids Near Me

You may ask, can I customize hearing aids near me? Some hearing aids allow for complete personalization depending on the degree of hearing loss the wearer experiences.

This is a major perk of getting your hearing checked and hearing aids from a professional audiologist’s clinic.

A professional may be able to determine the true cause of your hearing lossand give more tailored treatment choices with an in-person examination, which internet testing can’t match.

Some over-the-counter hearing aids may be programmed specifically for the user. In contrast, others include adjustable defaults that can be fine-tuned to suit the listener’s preferences and the acoustic surroundings.

Maintenance of Hearing Aids Near Me

Audiologists recommend cleaning hearing aid parts daily. However, how often and what you should clean them with may differ from device to device.

As in-canal hearing aids are placed directly into the ear canal, they are subjected to more moisture from the ear and hence need more frequent cleanings than receiver-in-canal devices. Hearing aids should be kept out of direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

When figuring out how much money you can put into hearing aids, it’s a good idea to include them in the expense of upkeep, such as batteries, new tips, and earwax protectors.

Hearing Aid Accessories for Hearing Aids Near Me

What kind of accessories do I need after getting the best hearing aids near me? Accessory needs vary by brand and model of hearing aid. While many extras are free with the purchase of a gadget, you may have to shell out cash for others if needed.

There are a plethora of options for purchasing hearing aid accessories online. The following items are examples of common hearing aid accessories.

Charging case: The case can easily recharge your hearing aids after using them.
Replacement domes: This product is designed to be used specifically with hearing aids that have soft, detachable tips.
Wax guards: As a preventative measure against earwax damage, the product is often included with ITE and CIC hearing aids.

Getting Used to Your Hearing Aid

Now that I have gotten the best hearing aids near me, what’s next? It may take some time for your ears to adapt to their amplification, but as you do, you will experience better hearing. Your voice will change in pitch and volume due to using a hearing aid.

When you first start using a hearing aid, remember these things.

Hearing aids won’t return your hearing to normal. Hearing aids cannot improve a person’s hearing to normal levels entirely. Nonetheless, they may improve one’s hearing by boosting quiet noises.
Allow time to get used to the hearing aid. While getting used to enhanced sounds may take some time, regular hearing aid use might help speed up the process. Keep at it with patience and determination; this will take time.
Practice using the hearing aid in different environments. The amplification effect you experience in hearing depends on where you are.
Seek support and try to stay positive. Your new hearing aid can only help you if you put in the time to practice with it and have the encouragement of others around you. If you’re struggling to adjust to life with hearing loss or new hearing aids, you could also benefit from joining a support group for others in your situation.
Go back for a follow-up. In certain cases, experts may include the cost of many follow-up appointments when calculating their fees. It’s highly suggested that you schedule these appointments to have your new hearing aid fitted properly and ensure its proper operation. Getting the most out of it is crucial.

Hearing aids only work as intended when they are used often and cared for properly. In addition, an audiologist can help you get set up with the most recent hearing aid technology and make any necessary modifications.

The ultimate goal is to locate a hearing aid that works well with your ears and voice and allows you to communicate more effectively.

Questions To Ask When Shopping for Hearing Aids Near Me

Here, you’ll find the answers to questions to ask when shopping for hearing aids near me.

Does the Company Sell Online or in Person?

Certain hearing aids, such as those that don’t need a prescription, can only be bought online, while others, like Audicus, may be bought online or in a physical store. On the other hand, brands like Starkey are exclusive to audiology clinics.

What Are My Payment Options?

You can only buy certain types of hearing aids (those that don’t need a doctor’s prescription) online. Although some manufacturers, like Audicus, sell their products exclusively via their online and retail stores, others, like Starkey, are available only through audiology practices.

Does the Company Provide a Free Trial Period?

It’s worth noting that although trial periods for the best digital hearing aids are required in most states, others do not. Ensure you have enough time to get used to your new hearing aids by discovering the company’s return policy or taking advantage of any trial periods they may provide.

If I Need Help Adjusting My Hearing Device, How Can I Reach Customer Support?

One must know several customer service channels, such as in-person, over the phone, and online choices, including telehealth services, online chat, and email. This is essential knowledge for consumers to have.

What Type of Warranty Does the Company Offer?

Find out how long the hearing aid’s warranty is, see whether it can be extended, and how much it will cost. Also, specify which fixes, losses, and replacements fall within the warranty’s coverage.

Conclusion: Hearing Aids Near Me

We have produced a list of our recommended manufacturers and models of the best hearing aids near me if you are looking for them in your area.

Jabra Enhance - Best digital hearing aids for severe hearing loss overall
Audien - Best Invisible digital hearing aids for severe hearing loss
Audicus - Most Affordable digital hearing aids for severe hearing loss
Eargo - Best OTC digital hearing aids for severe hearing loss
MDHearing - Best Rechargeable digital hearing aids for severe hearing loss
Starkey - Best Tinnitus digital hearing aids for severe hearing loss
Widex - Best RIC digital hearing aids for severe hearing loss
Phonak - Easiest to Use digital hearing aids for severe hearing loss
Oticon Real - Best Bluetooth digital hearing aids for severe hearing loss

References

Center for Devices, and Radiological Health. “Hearing Aids.” U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 12 Jan. 2023, https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/consumer-products/hearing-aids.
Fischer, Mary E., et al. “Determinants of Hearing Aid Acquisition in Older Adults.” American Journal of Public Health, vol. 101, no. 8, 2011, pp. 1449–1455, doi:10.2105/AJPH.2010.300078.
The White House. “FACT SHEET: Cheaper Hearing Aids Now in Stores Thanks to Biden-Harris Administration Competition Agenda.” The White House, 17 Oct. 2022, https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/10/17/fact-sheet-cheaper-hearing-aids-now-in-stores-thanks-to-biden-harris-administration-competition-agenda/.
“Consumer Protection Laws State Trial Period Refund Complaints.” Hearingloss.Org, https://www.hearingloss.org/wp-content/uploads/ConsumerProtectionLaws.pdf. Accessed 27 Mar. 2023.

Go to MSN Home

AdChoices