Seeing a Hearing Care Professional vs. Buying Online or Over-the-Counter
If you’ve been thinking about getting help for your hearing, you might have noticed a lot of options out there—including devices you can buy online or pick up over the counter. On the surface, they seem like quick and easy solutions. But when it comes to something as personal and important as your hearing, professional care can make a world of difference.
Why Personalized Hearing Care Matters
Hearing loss is unique to every individual. From the type and degree of hearing loss to lifestyle and communication needs, there’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all solution.
Hearing care professionals like audiologists and hearing instrument specialists conduct comprehensive hearing tests and work with you to find a solution that fits your specific hearing profile. They take the time to understand your daily routine, challenges, and preferences, and recommend devices that are tailored to support the way you live.
“Hearing isn’t a one-size-fits-all situation. Just like you wouldn’t buy prescription glasses off the shelf, your hearing care should be personalized too.”
Katie Koebel, Audiologist, M.Cl.Sc., Reg. CASLPO
The Limitations of Online and Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids
While OTC or online options may offer basic sound amplification, they often lack the features and customization needed to effectively treat hearing loss. Here are a few key limitations:
1. Lack of Customization
On the other hand, professionally fitted hearing aids are fine-tuned using your hearing test results (audiogram) and listening preferences, and the sound output is verified right in your ears ensuring that you get the right amplification where it’s needed most.
2. Fewer Features
Many online or OTC devices don’t offer advanced features like:
- Noise reduction
- Directional microphones
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Rechargeable batteries
These features can significantly improve your ability to hear clearly in different environments—whether it’s at work, in a restaurant, or during a family gathering.
3. No Professional Support
With online or OTC purchases, there’s no one to guide you through the process. A hearing care professional can:
- Provide detailed and hands-on instruction on how to wear and maintain your hearing aids.
- Refer to appropriate health care provider to investigate underlying medical issues when warranted.
- Help you choose the right device.
- Adjust and fine-tune the settings.
- Offer support and troubleshooting after purchase.
- Track changes in your hearing over time.
This kind of follow-up care is essential for long-term hearing health.
What’s Available in Canada?
It’s important to note that, in Canada, hearing aids are regulated as medical devices and require a prescription. Over-the-counter hearing aids, like those available in the U.S., are not legally sold in Canada. What you may find online without a prescription are often personal sound amplification products (PSAPs). These devices are not the same as hearing aids—they amplify all sound, not just speech, and are not customized to your hearing loss.
Using the wrong device can lead to discomfort, poor sound quality, or even worsening of hearing issues if not properly managed.
Trusting a Hearing Care Professional
Getting your hearing tested and fitted by a professional doesn’t just ensure better results—it gives you peace of mind. You’ll know that you’re making an informed decision based on professional guidance, and that your device is set up to meet your needs today and in the future.
Whether you're just starting to notice changes in your hearing, or you've been living with hearing loss for some time, booking a hearing test with a qualified professional is the first and most important step in your hearing care journey.
Book a free hearing test with a local hearing care professional and get support tailored to you.
