Hearing Aids VS. PSAPs - Do You Know the Difference?

Pardon the pun, but by now many of us have heard about PSAPs, or personal sound amplification products. These devices, which are being touted as the second coming in hearing aid advancement, are becoming evermore popular with their lower prices and ease of purchase over conventional hearing aids.

This popularity is understandable since they appear to offer some of the same advanced technology used in expensive hearing aids…and promise to give you super hearing for pennies on the dollar.

In truth, there is technology in them that enables these PSAPs to amplify sound, which, under certain conditions can be very effective. However, amplify is the key word here. That’s where the differences between PSAPs and actual hearing aids begin to show themselves.

While not being totally disingenuous, companies selling these PSAPs are not completely forthcoming either. What they don’t tell you is that, these are not hearing aids. These are instruments designed for people with no hearing issues. That’s right. If you have low to moderate hearing loss or above, these OTCs (over the counter) products do nothing to address those issues in any clinical manner.

In fact, many fall quite short when it comes to performing even as advertised. Moreover, these are one-size fits all sound amplifiers with volume control and in some instances, noise filters.

What’s Wrong With That as Long as it Makes it Louder?

Nothing, if all you need is more volume. However, many people with a hearing impairment need more than just an instrument that cranks up the volume. One example, depending on your degree of hearing loss, is being unable to discern words, which is a common source of frustration. If words sound foggy or like a wall of sound, turning up the volume is only going to get you a louder wall.

It is Best to Consult a Professional

A professional Audiologist is familiar with all types and degrees of hearing loss. They are trained to know what to look for, to recognize the degree of hearing loss you may suffer (if any) and how best to address any issues moving forward.

Today’s hearing aids are technologically advanced and can be fine-tuned to maximize your ability to hear with the proper volume and clarity, while targeting your specific areas of need. You just can’t get that from an amplifier.

When it comes to your hearing, don’t take chances with a device you can pick up off a convenient store counter. Seek out a professional for proper evaluation and treatment.