Considering OTC Hearing Aids? HLAA's OTC Tip Sheet Can Help

What is “mild to moderate” hearing loss?

You may have mild to moderate hearing loss if…

• You have trouble understanding conversations in groups, with background noise, or when you can’t see who is talking.
• You have trouble hearing on the telephone.
• You need to turn up the volume of television, or radio loud enough for others to complain.
• Your friends or family complain that you don’t understand speech,   and ask them to repeat often.

OTC may NOT help you if…   

• You also have trouble hearing conversations in quiet environments. •
• You also have trouble hearing loud sounds like power tools, or motor vehicles.

If you experience these, you should see a hearing care professional.

Important questions to ask about OTC hearing aids

• Is there a free trial period, or money-back return policy?
• Does it need a smartphone, app, or computer to install, operate, or customize to my needs?
• Is it compatible with cell phones, or smartphones?
• Does it have connectivity via Bluetooth, or telecoil to a smartphone,  computer, or listening system?
• Can the hearing aid’s amplification be adjusted?
• Is it water/sweat resistant?
• How does it control, reduce, or block out background, or wind noise?
• How long is the battery life? Can it be recharged?

Other considerations

• Pay attention to package warnings. If you have pain, sudden hearing changes, or dizziness, see a doctor.
• It may take time to adjust to hearing devices.
• If the first hearing aid doesn’t work, keep trying, and you may want  to seek the help of a hearing care professional to advise you. 

► Learn more at hearingloss.org/OTC

► OTC Hearing Aid Tip Sheet pdf