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If you’ve been reading about over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids in the U.S., you might be wondering if they’re available in Canada. For some, it sounds like a convenient choice, while for others, the idea of having even more hearing aid options available is a bit overwhelming.
In any case, our Markham audiologists will walk you through what you need to know about OTC hearing aids in Canada and answer some common questions we get on the subject.
The short answer is: No, over-the-counter hearing aids are not available in Canada. Unlike the United States where the FDA has approved OTC hearing aids for adults with mild-to-moderate hearing loss, Canada has no similar legislation or regulatory framework.
Technically, yes, you can buy hearing aids online in Canada from the United States or any country that allows OTC hearing aids. However, we urge caution when purchasing Amazon hearing aids or devices from other online platforms, because they’re not regulated by Health Canada. You won’t have the same protections as you would if you were an adult purchasing OTC hearing aids in the U.S.
Does that really matter? Yes, it does because the devices might not meet Canadian safety standards, could have hazardous components, and may potentially harm your hearing if not fitted properly. Additionally, without the expertise of an audiologist, it’s difficult to ensure you’re getting the right device for your specific hearing needs.
OTC hearing aids cannot be adjusted or fine-tuned to your hearing loss, even by an audiologist. If you buy an OTC product, and you’re not happy with the sound quality, there is not much a licensed audiology clinic can do to help you. This happens to many OTC hearing aid users, and the devices end up sitting in a drawer when the person gets fed up and is ultimately prescribed hearing aids from a registered professional.
Another thing to consider is that many Amazon hearing aids for seniors are inexpensive amplifiers and not true hearing aids. This means they might not help with most types of hearing loss and could even exacerbate the issue.
We get it. Finding hearing aids on Amazon and having them delivered in a couple of days seems convenient, but, the truth is, it’s not worth it. You probably won’t get great performance from a generic OTC hearing aid, so you’ll miss out on key features that improve your comfort and hearing experience.
Think of it like this: OTC hearing aids make all sounds louder by a set amount, just like a magnifying glass does to your vision. A magnifying glass might help in a very specific situation, but it’s basically useless in other situations due to its lack of adaptability and adjusting capabilities. The same holds true for over-the-counter hearing aids.
Also, as we said, a lack of regulation in Canada means you can’t be certain you’re getting a safe, quality device. Whether your hearing loss is mild or profound, you deserve to be able to hear the world around you with clarity and comfort.
Hearing aids are not one-size-fits-all devices. Professional audiologists, like Boris Chang and Jaimie Archer, hold graduate-level degrees and are regulated by the College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Ontario. They’re trained in hearing loss prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and the management of balance and hearing issues.
At our Ontario hearing clinic, our audiologists conduct thorough hearing assessments and provide custom fittings to ensure optimal performance. This includes services like real-ear verification, where we measure how your hearing aids are performing in your ear and make precise adjustments to improve your overall hearing experience.
If you’re looking for the best hearing aids, consult with a professional. An audiologist can ensure that the device will work for your specific hearing loss, and they can also provide ongoing support to maximize the effectiveness of your hearing aids.
Although over-the-counter hearing aids are not available in Canada at the moment, there’s a possibility that they will be in the future as regulations evolve. The Canadian Academy of Audiology has called for government regulation to ensure that OTC hearing aids are safe and effective for Canadian consumers.
Until then, we advise anyone with hearing loss to seek professional care and avoid unregulated devices that may do more harm than good.
The best place to purchase hearing aids is from a trusted hearing clinic in Ontario. At Archer Hearing Centre, we take the time to understand your unique hearing needs and provide personalized recommendations. Our Markham, ON audiologists are experienced in fitting all types of hearing aids, including Bluetooth-enabled devices and custom hearing solutions.
The expertise and support of an audiologist are invaluable when it comes to improving your hearing and quality of life.
While over-the-counter hearing aids may seem like a quick fix, the guidance of a licensed audiologist can make all the difference in finding the right solution.
At Archer Hearing Centre, we’re committed to providing the best possible care for your hearing needs in a way that works for your lifestyle and budget. That’s why we offer:
If you’re considering hearing aids, book a consultation at Archer Hearing Centre today to get personalized advice and care.