Apple AirPods Pro’s new hearing aid feature could help people deal with a problem they’d rather ignore

Of DEVI SHASTRIAssociated Press

Some wireless Apple AirPods can be used as hearing aids with a new software update available in October. It’s a high-profile move that experts applaud, even if it only reaches a small fraction of the millions of hearing-impaired Americans.

An estimated 30 million people—1 in 8 Americans over the age of 12—have hearing loss in both ears. Millions of people would benefit from hearing aids, but most have never tried them, according to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. Countless others have tried them but don’t use them because of cost, poor quality, poor fit, how they look, or other reasons.

In recent years, there has been a push to change that. Two years ago, the federal rules changed to allows the sale of hearing aids without a prescriptiona move that many hoped would bring better and cheaper options to patients. And last month, the US Food and Drug Administration approved Apple’s software that will transform AirPods Pro 2 in hearing aids.

For now, it’s unclear whether the changed rule has helped, experts say. But turning AirPods into hearing aids is the kind of creative move that backers have been hoping for. Here’s what you need to know about hearing loss, hearing aids and Apple’s new option.

Hearing loss can contribute to isolation, dementia and even the risk of falling

About 15% of Americans report some difficulty hearing. Most people with hearing loss are over 60, but hearing problems don’t just affect the elderly. A study it has been found that men and people living in rural areas are more prone to hearing loss.

And it has been linked to many health effects beyond the ear. It contributes to isolation, depression and cognitive decline, experts say. It increases the risk of dementia and rewires the brain. It has also been linked to an increased risk of falling — a major health problem among older adults.

“Everything we do, all our relationships, whether personal or professional, involves auditory conversations,” said Barbara Kelley, executive director of the Hearing Loss Association of America. “Now we’re finding that the earlier people can pay attention to their hearing health, the better.”

You don’t need to see a doctor to get a hearing aid

Before the 2022 rule change by the US Food and Drug Administration, everyone had to see a doctor and get a prescription for a hearing aid to get one. Now, they are available without one.

“As more of them are sold, then hopefully the price will come down,” said Elizabeth Stangl, an audiologist at the University of Iowa. “But we haven’t seen a big rush to get them.”

Even over-the-counter, a decent hearing aid can easily run you $400 to $500, said Stangl, who researches how well people adjust to using hearing aids. And some of the less expensive options are really just “cheap amps,” lacking the custom level settings and noise-cancelling features that make hearing aids really useful.

How do Apple AirPods hearing aids work?

The hearing aid feature is available with AirPods Pro 2 models and requires an iPhone or iPad to set it up. It starts with built-in tests that will help users determine if they have hearing loss, configure the feature if they have it, and set custom amplification levels.

The headphones sell for $249 on Apple’s website, and sometimes less at other retailers.

While there are many other headphone-type devices that can work in the same way, experts agreed that the addition of AirPods is a good one, simply because of how it could help normalize hearing aids.

“It’s just mainstream,” Kelley said. The ubiquity of AirPods could make people concerned about the appearance of a hearing aid more open to using them.

However, there may be some disadvantages. Fit and comfort during extended use could be an issue. And while other hearing aids are built to last a full day or more, Stangl said the AirPods’ battery life won’t allow for that. She also noted that wearing headphones can send a message to others that the person does not want to be disturbed or spoken to.

“But hopefully more people will try it and realize, ‘Yes, these do help,'” she said.

Tips for buying OTC hearing aids

Stangl suggests that people do a lot of research before they buy. She said Facebook and Reddit forums can be particularly helpful in verifying devices. Websites Hearing tracker and SOUNDS they also have reliable reviews and resources for selecting a hearing aid, she said.

The Hearing Loss Association of America and American Academy of Audiology have hearing aid buying guides on their websites. If you’re stuck, see an audiologist.

Look for devices that allow you to adjust different heights. Most hearing-impaired people have the hardest time with higher tones, so find a device that can adjust the gain on the frequencies.

To avoid the piercing whistle of feedback, buy a device that has a “feedback manager”. The fit is key, but beware: it may not necessarily be the most comfortable initially, so take your time.

Can you use your FSA or HSA money to buy OTC hearing aids — or even AirPods?

Pre-tax money stashed away in flexible spending accounts or health savings accounts can be used to buy hearing aids, including those sold over the counter.

Does this mean you can get a new set of AirPods Pro2 with pre-tax money? Experts say it’s a gray area that hasn’t been tested yet, so be careful. You may even need a letter of medical necessity. It’s best to check with an accountant before trying.

Your smartphone can help you even without hearing aids

Even if you can’t afford the latest and greatest technology, your smartphone can be a tool to protect and improve your hearing.

Most phones can now convert speech to text, which can help make conversations easier. The iPhone’s “Live Listen” feature turns your phone into an amplifying microphone that can transmit your dinner date’s voice right to your ear, even if you’re in a noisy restaurant.