Over-the-counter hearing aids: What will it mean for older Americans?

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Millions of older Americans experience hearing loss, linked to social isolation, depression, and poor health.
• Medicare currently does not cover hearing aids, limiting access for many seniors.
• The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) proposed new rules for over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids in October 2021.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the implications of new over-the-counter hearing aid regulations.
• To highlight the need for supportive services alongside accessible hearing aids for older adults.
• To inform policymakers, managers, and clinicians on addressing hearing aid adoption challenges.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of FDA draft rules for OTC hearing aids.
• Review of existing literature on hearing loss in older adults and associated health outcomes.
• Examination of potential barriers to effective hearing aid use and the need for adjunctive services.

Main Results:

• OTC hearing aids offer potential for improved financial access to hearing solutions for older adults.
• Financial access alone may not ensure improved hearing outcomes.
• Significant need exists for fitting, usage, and maintenance support services.

Conclusions:

• The advent of OTC hearing aids presents an opportunity to address hearing loss in older adults.
• Effective utilization of OTC hearing aids necessitates comprehensive adjunctive services.
• Strategic planning for funding and delivery of these services is crucial for policymakers, managers, and clinicians.