Who Can Help My Husband with Hearing Amplifiers and Aids?
Hearing difficulties often accompany aging, and many older adults experience challenges such as trouble hearing phone conversations, group discussions, or the TV. If your husband is facing these issues, he might benefit from hearing aids or amplifiers.
Understanding Hearing Aids vs. Hearing Amplifiers
Hearing amplifiers, also called Personal Sound Amplification Products (PSAPs), are designed to enhance environmental sounds during specific activities. However, they are not intended to address hearing loss and are not FDA-approved.
In contrast, hearing aids are FDA-regulated medical devices designed to improve hearing for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss.
Does Your Husband Need Hearing Aids?
For mild to moderate hearing loss, your husband can purchase over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids without a prescription or professional fitting. These hearing aids are available online and in many stores, providing an accessible solution for those experiencing common signs of hearing loss, such as:
- Difficulty understanding conversations in noisy settings.
- Trouble hearing over the phone.
- Feeling fatigued from prolonged listening.
- Needing to raise the TV or radio volume excessively.
If your husband’s symptoms suggest severe hearing loss—such as difficulty hearing loud noises, understanding speech even in quiet environments, or relying on lip reading—he will need professional evaluation and fitting for hearing aids.
Who Can Fit Your Husband with Hearing Aids?
For severe hearing loss, it’s essential to consult a professional who can assess his condition and recommend the right hearing aids. This can include:
- Primary Care Physicians
- Audiologists
- ENT Doctors
- Hearing Aid Specialists
By identifying the severity of his hearing loss, you can ensure your husband receives the appropriate support and tools to improve his hearing.
