Blog

  • Oticon Rolls Out Next-Generation Opn Hearing Aids

    Oticon has introduced two new hearing aid models, the Opn S and Opn Play, designed to enhance auditory experiences for both adults and children. The Opn S features advanced sound processing with a 360-degree sound experience, a 15% improvement in speech understanding, and a rechargeable lithium-ion battery option for up to a full day of use. Meanwhile, the Opn Play is tailored for children, offering premium performance with feedback elimination, improved sound processing, and connectivity options...

  • Over-the-Counter (OTC) Hearing Aids Shown Cost-Effective in Simulation Model, Says JAMA Study

    This article explores the potential clinical and economic outcomes of over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids in the U.S., highlighting their cost-effectiveness and ability to increase hearing aid uptake among adults with mild-to-moderate hearing loss. Using computer simulations and a validated decision model, researchers found that OTC hearing aids could be a cost-effective alternative to traditional hearing aids if they provide at least 55% of the quality-of-life benefits offered by conventional de...

  • Patent Could Fix Hearing Aid Performance For Everyone

    This article discusses the ongoing challenges with hearing aids, including issues like feedback, excessive noise, and improper amplification, which have historically frustrated users. While recent advancements in technology, such as directional microphones and digital algorithms, have improved comfort and speech understanding in noisy environments, a significant problem persists: the lack of proper verification during the fitting process. Only about 20-30% of hearing aid fittings are verified, po...

  • Paying for Hearing Aids: Tax Breaks from Uncle Sam

    Hearing aids can be expensive, and many people struggle to afford them due to high costs and lack of insurance coverage. However, there are strategies to reduce the financial burden. The IRS allows hearing aid expenses, including batteries, repairs, and maintenance, as deductible medical expenses, but only if total medical expenses exceed 10% of your adjusted gross income (AGI). Additionally, using a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA) can help you pay for hearing ...

  • Petition Asks Video Conferencing Services to Consider People with Hearing Loss

    Video conferencing platforms have become essential for communication during the COVID-19 pandemic, but they present challenges for individuals with hearing loss due to poor audio quality and lack of accessible captioning options. While video calls aid lipreading, difficulties arise in following conversations, especially in multi-person discussions. Current platforms often require payment for automatic speech recognition (ASR) captions, which are crucial for accessibility. In response, an open let...

  • Phonak Expands Its Flagship Lumity Family with Four New Disposable Battery Models

    The Phonak Lumity family has expanded to include a comprehensive range of behind-the-ear hearing aids, such as the Audéo Lumity receiver-in-canal (RIC), Naída and Sky behind-the-ear (BTE) models in various power options, and the Phonak Slim RIC. These devices utilize SmartSpeech technology for enhanced speech understanding and reduced listening effort, along with personalized control via onboard buttons and myPhonak/myPhonak Junior apps. Notably, the new hearing aids lack an accelerometer or fi...