November 2nd 2024.
In a recent announcement by DEVI SHASTRI of the Associated Press, it was revealed that Apple AirPods wireless headphones will now have a new software update available in October. This update will allow some models to be used as hearing aids, a move that has been praised by experts in the field. While this may only reach a small portion of the millions of Americans with hearing loss, it is a high-profile step towards improving accessibility and inclusivity.
Statistics show that an estimated 30 million people, which is 1 in 8 Americans over the age of 12, have hearing loss in both ears. However, despite the potential benefits of using hearing aids, most individuals have never tried them. This could be due to various reasons such as cost, poor quality, poor fit, or even concerns about their appearance. In recent years, there has been a push to change this and make hearing aids more accessible to those in need. This includes a change in federal regulations to allow over-the-counter sales of hearing aids and the recent approval by the U.S Food and Drug Administration of software that turns Apple AirPods Pro 2 into hearing aids.
While it is still uncertain if the change in regulations has made a significant impact, experts agree that the addition of the hearing aid feature to AirPods is a creative and positive move. But before delving into the details of this new option, it's essential to understand the impact of hearing loss and the benefits of using hearing aids.
Hearing loss can have various effects on an individual's life, including isolation, depression, and cognitive decline. It has also been linked to an increased risk of falls, which is a significant concern for older adults. According to Barbara Kelley, executive director of the Hearing Loss Association of America, our ability to communicate and connect with others is greatly affected by our hearing. Therefore, taking care of our hearing health is crucial, and the sooner we address any issues, the better.
With the recent changes in regulations, individuals no longer need to visit a doctor and obtain a prescription to purchase a hearing aid. They are now available over the counter, making it easier for individuals to access them. However, this does not mean that all hearing aids are of equal quality. Elizabeth Stangl, an audiologist at the University of Iowa, warns that while some options may be cheaper, they may not provide the necessary personalized settings and features that make hearing aids effective.
The Apple AirPods hearing aid feature is only available on AirPods Pro 2 models and requires an iPhone or iPad to set it up. The process includes built-in tests to determine if the user has hearing loss and personalize the amplification levels accordingly. While these headphones are priced at $249 on Apple's website, there may be other retailers selling them at a lower price.
Although there are other earbud-type devices with similar features, experts believe that the AirPods addition is significant because it could help normalize the use of hearing aids. Kelley states that the ubiquity of AirPods could make individuals who may feel self-conscious about wearing traditional hearing aids more open to trying them. However, there are a few drawbacks to using AirPods as hearing aids, such as fit and comfort during extended use. Also, the battery life may not last through a whole day, and wearing earbuds may send a message to others that the user does not want to be disturbed. Despite these potential drawbacks, Stangl hopes that more people will try them and realize the benefits they offer.
For those considering purchasing an over-the-counter hearing aid, Stangl advises doing thorough research before making a decision. She suggests checking forums and websites like Hearing Tracker and Soundly for reviews and resources. The Hearing Loss Association of America and American Academy of Audiology also have guides on their websites, and consulting an audiologist is always a good idea.
When purchasing a hearing aid, it's essential to look for devices that allow for personalized settings and noise canceling features. Stangl also recommends finding a device that can adjust amplification across different frequencies, as most people with hearing loss have difficulty hearing high pitches.
Using pre-tax money from a flexible spending account or health savings account is an option to purchase hearing aids, including over-the-counter options. However, it is still unclear if this can be used to buy AirPods as hearing aids. Experts advise consulting an accountant before attempting to do so.
Even for those who cannot afford the latest and greatest technology, smartphones can serve as a helpful tool for improving and protecting hearing. Most phones now have the ability to turn speech into text, and features like "Live Listen" on iPhones can amplify conversations in noisy environments. There are also various apps and websites that can assist in different ways, such as vibrating the phone if an alarm goes off or measuring noise levels. Catherine Palmer, director of audiology at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, believes that smartphones have made hearing care more accessible to many individuals.
In conclusion, the addition of the hearing aid feature to Apple AirPods is a positive step towards making hearing aids more accessible and normalizing their use. While they may not be suitable for everyone, they offer a more affordable option for those with mild to moderate hearing loss. It's essential to do thorough research before purchasing an over-the-counter hearing aid and seek professional guidance from an audiologist if needed. And for those who cannot afford hearing aids, smartphones can serve as a helpful tool in improving and protecting their hearing.
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