Table of Contents
1. Introduction to Hearing Aids
2. Buying hearing aids online
3. Insuarance coverage
4. About Eara
Section 1
Introduction to Over-the-Counter (OTC) Bluetooth hearing aids
Hearing loss is the sudden or gradual decrease in how well you can hear. About 30 million adults in the United States could benefit from the use of hearing aids. The prevalence of hearing loss increases with age, among those older than 65 years, over 25% are affected by disabling hearing loss.
According to the World Health Organization Disabling hearing loss refers to hearing loss greater than 35 decibels (dB) in the better hearing ear.
Many people hesitate to wear hearing aids due to outdated stigmas, fearing they signal aging or a loss of sharpness. In reality hearing aids are no different from eyeglasses, they help you engage fully in life, stay connected and maintain independence. Modern hearing aids are discreet, lightweight, and nearly invisible, blending seamlessly into your daily routine while delivering powerful, life-changing benefits. They are an essential tool rather than a sign of limitation.
What are Hearing Aids?
Hearing aids are small electronic devices designed to amplify sound and help individuals with hearing loss hear more clearly and live normal lives.
Hearing aids consist of:
- Microphone
- Amplifier
- Processor
- Receiver/ Speaker
All these parts work together to capture sound, process it and deliver it at a louder volume.
Modern hearing aids are now digital, discreet( nearly invisible) and come with advanced features such as bluetooth connectivity, noise cancelling features as well as smart phone applications to control the hearing aids. Compared to hearing aids in the past that were bulky and unattractive.
The Eara Explore Li+ is a prime example of a modern OTC Bluetooth hearing aid, offering advanced features in a compact, discreet design; about the size of a paperclip.
What are OTC Bluetooth hearing aids?
Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids are a new category of hearing devices designed to make hearing assistance more affordable, accessible, and convenient for people perceived to have mild to moderate hearing impairment. Unlike traditional prescription hearing aids, OTC models can be purchased directly online or in stores without the need for a medical exam or audiologist fitting.
The new category was created in 2022 by the FDA, this landmark decision was made with the goal of lowering costs and increasing access to hearing healthcare, giving consumers more affordable options to address hearing loss.
At Eara we align with this goal by offering high quality OTC bluetooth hearing aids at a 1/3 the price of prescription hearing aids. To further support users, we provide lifetime consultations for free with every Eara Explore Li+ purchase, ensuring customers receive ongoing support and guidance.
Difference between hearing aids and amplifiers?
What are sound amplifiers ?
Sound amplifiers (or Personal Sound Amplification Products - PSAPs) are basic devices that make all sounds louder. They work similarly to a microphone and speaker system - capturing environmental sounds and making them uniformly louder without distinguishing between different sound types or frequencies. Amplifiers typically make everything louder across all frequencies, lack customization options, provide only simple volume controls, and have limited noise filtering capabilities.
Modern over-the-counter hearing aids with Bluetooth connectivity represent a significant advancement over basic amplifiers.
Unlike amplifiers, sophisticated OTC hearing aids can be programmed through smartphone apps to address your specific hearing loss patterns. They can boost only the frequencies where you have hearing loss and apply different amplification levels across the sound spectrum.
These advanced devices can automatically detect and adjust to different environments like restaurants or quiet rooms. They reduce background noise while enhancing speech and apply directional microphone technology to focus on sounds in front of you.
Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids offer direct streaming of phone calls and media, remote adjustments through companion apps, and integration with other technology. Modern OTC hearing aids utilize complex algorithms that identify and reduce feedback, apply compression to make loud sounds comfortable while keeping soft sounds audible, and process speech differently from background noise.
This technological sophistication allows modern OTC hearing aids to provide a more natural, comfortable listening experience tailored to your specific needs, rather than simply making everything louder as amplifiers do.
Man setting their Over-the-Counter Hearing Aid to their preferred listening mode
Curious about the difference between OTC hearing aids and cochlear implants? Our blog post breaks down the key distinctions to help you make informed decisions about your hearing health.
How do digital hearing aids work?
Digital hearing aids work just like any other traditional hearing aids from the past.
They both have:
- Microphone
- Amplifier
- Processor
- Receiver/ Speaker
What sets digital hearing aids apart is their advanced microchip and digital signal processor (DSP), which analyze and refine the sound before delivering it to the receiver. Here’s how they work:
Sound Collection: The hearing aid’s microphone picks up sounds from the environment, including speech, background noise, and other auditory details.
Sound Conversion: Instead of amplifying sound in its raw form, the microchip converts it into digital signals, allowing for more precise processing.
Sound Processing: The DSP analyzes and enhances the sound by:
- Reducing background noise to improve speech clarity.
- Suppressing feedback to eliminate whistling or buzzing.
- Automatically adjusting settings based on the surrounding environment.
Sound Amplification: After processing, the sound is amplified at an appropriate level, ensuring clarity and comfort for the user.
Sound Delivery: The receiver (speaker) transmits the processed and amplified sound directly into the ear for a clear and natural listening experience.
Additional Features: Many digital hearing aids include Bluetooth connectivity, enabling users to stream audio from smartphones, TVs, or other devices directly to their hearing aids, offering a seamless and personalized hearing experience.
What are the causes of Hearing loss?
Mild to moderate hearing loss can occur due to various factors, ranging from age-related changes to environmental and medical conditions. Here are some of the most common causes:
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Age-Related Hearing Loss (Presbycusis)
One of the most common causes of gradual hearing loss. Occurs as part of the natural aging process, usually affecting high-frequency sounds first. Caused by damage to the hair cells in the inner ear over time.
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Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL)
Long-term exposure to loud sounds (e.g., music, machinery, workplace noise) can damage the hair cells in the inner ear. Even short bursts of very loud sounds (concerts, gunfire, explosions) can cause hearing loss. Often preventable with proper hearing protection.
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Earwax Buildup (Cerumen Impaction)
Excess earwax can block the ear canal, muffling sounds and reducing hearing clarity. Can often be resolved with safe ear-cleaning methods or professional earwax removal.
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Middle Ear Infections (Otitis Media)
Infections in the middle ear can lead to temporary hearing loss due to infection within the fluid buildup. If untreated, repeated infections may cause damage to the eardrum or small bones in the middle ear.
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Eustachian Tube Dysfunction
The Eustachian tube helps regulate pressure in the middle ear, but if blocked (due to allergies, sinus infections, or colds), it can cause muffled hearing and fluid build-up.
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Ototoxic Medications
Some medications (e.g., high doses of aspirin, certain antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs) can damage the inner ear and lead to hearing loss. Symptoms may be temporary or permanent depending on the medication and dosage.
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Genetics and Hereditary Conditions
Some people inherit genes that make them more prone to gradual hearing loss. Genetic conditions such as otosclerosis can affect the bones in the middle ear, reducing hearing ability.
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Head or Ear Trauma
Injuries to the head or ear can damage structures in the middle or inner ear, leading to hearing loss. A ruptured eardrum from sudden loud noises or trauma can also contribute to mild to moderate hearing impairment.
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Chronic Diseases and Health Conditions
Conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or cardiovascular disease can reduce blood flow to the inner ear, affecting hearing. Autoimmune disorders affecting the inner ear can also lead to gradual hearing loss.
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Temporary Hearing Loss Due to Illness or Congestion
Sinus infections, colds, or allergies can cause temporary hearing loss by blocking the ear canals or affecting middle ear function. Once the congestion clears, hearing often returns to normal.
Effects of untreated hearing loss
Hearing loss doesn't just affect your ears - it can affect your relationships, work, and mental well-being.
Benefits of hearing aids
Hearing loss often develops gradually, making it difficult for individuals to recognize the impact it has on their daily lives. Over time, they may find themselves asking others to repeat themselves more often, struggling to follow conversations in noisy environments, or feeling fatigued from straining to hear. These challenges can lead to social withdrawal, reduced confidence, and even cognitive decline. However, many people don’t realize how much they are missing until they try hearing aids for the first time. The moment they experience clear, natural sound again, they often describe it as a rediscovery of the world around them—from the laughter of loved ones to the rustling of leaves and the richness of music.
Hearing aids do much more than amplify sound; they enhance overall well-being, communication, and quality of life. Whether it's reconnecting with family, improving work performance, or simply enjoying daily activities with ease, the benefits are undeniable.
Here’s how hearing aids can make a difference:
- Improved Communication – Makes conversations easier by enhancing speech clarity and reducing background noise, allowing for smoother interactions.
- Enhanced Social Life – Encourages active participation in social gatherings, reducing isolation and loneliness caused by hearing difficulties.
- Better Mental Health – Lowers the risk of anxiety, depression, and cognitive decline associated with untreated hearing loss.
- Increased Confidence – Helps individuals feel more in control of their surroundings and reduces the stress of misunderstanding conversations.
- Stronger Work Performance – Improves communication at work, ensuring that individuals remain engaged and productive in professional settings.
- Greater Safety & Awareness – Enhances the ability to hear important sounds like alarms, approaching vehicles, or someone calling your name.
- Reduced Listening Effort – Hearing aids reduce the strain of trying to hear, decreasing fatigue and improving focus throughout the day.
Experience the difference hearing aids can make
The National Council on Aging reports that individuals with untreated hearing loss face 46% higher healthcare costs over 10 years.
Prioritizing hearing health today may not only improve quality of life but also help prevent unnecessary medical expenses down the road.
Section 2
Buying hearing aids online
Shopping for hearing aids online can feel overwhelming, but with the right guidance, it’s easier than ever to find a high-quality, affordable solution that fits your needs. Before diving into the details, it’s important to check for a few key factors: Does the retailer offer an online hearing test? Is there a risk-free trial period? What kind of support is available after purchase? At Eara, we make the process simple with a free online hearing test, lifetime support, and a 45-day risk-free trial; so you can experience better hearing with confidence.
Before exploring your options, it’s helpful to understand the different types of hearing aids available and how they fit various lifestyles and levels of hearing loss.
Types of hearing aids
Eara Explore Li+ Receiver-in-ear style
Hearing aids come in different styles and designs, each catering to specific hearing needs, lifestyle preferences, and levels of hearing loss. While they all share the same core function—amplifying sound to improve hearing clarity—the way they fit, process sound, and offer features can vary significantly.
The two main categories of hearing aids are Behind-the-Ear (BTE) and In-the-Ear (ITE) styles. Each has its own set of advantages depending on factors like comfort, discretion, and sound quality.
Behind-the-Ear (BTE)
Behind-the-ear hearing aids are one of the most common and versatile types available. These devices hook over the top of the ear and rest behind it, connecting to a custom-fitted earpiece that sits inside the ear canal.These models tend to be more powerful, longer-lasting, and easier to adjust, making them a great choice for many people
Receiver in the ear (RITE) & Receiver in canal(RIC)
Receiver-in-the-ear (RITE) hearing aids are similar to BTE devices. The body of a RITE hearing aid sits behind your ear (microphone and processor). A thin receiver wire extends from the body of the hearing aid over your outer ear and into your ear canal. A soft tip sits just inside of your ear canal without sealing it. For many people, this offers a more natural sound.
Receiver in the Ear
Traditional BTE
Features a tube that directs sound into an earmold, offering maximum amplification for those with more significant hearing loss.
In-the-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
ITE hearing aids sit directly inside the ear, making them smaller and less visible than BTE models. They are custom-molded to fit the wearer’s ear.
Invisible-in-Canal (IIC) & Completely-in-Canal (CIC)
The smallest and most discreet hearing aids, sitting deep inside the ear canal for near invisibility. Best for those who prioritize discretion.
Completely-in-canal
In-the-Canal (ITC)
Slightly larger than IIC and CIC models, ITC hearing aids provide a balance between discretion and enhanced features, such as directional microphones for improved speech clarity.
In-the-Canal
Full Shell & Half Shell ITE
These models fill more of the outer ear, making them easier to handle and offering stronger amplification for those needing extra power.
CROS(Contralateral Routing of Signal) & BiCROS(Bilateral Contralateral Routing of Signal) hearing aids
CROS and BiCROS hearing aids look just like regular BTE or ITE hearing aids, but their functionality is specialized for asymmetrical hearing loss. These devices use wireless technology to address single-sided deafness or situations where one ear has significantly worse hearing than the other.
While they resemble traditional hearing aids externally, their internal technology works differently to meet unique hearing needs. Continue reading below to learn exactly how CROS and BiCROS systems work and who benefits most from these specialized solutions.
CROS (Contralateral Routing of Signal) hearing aids
Are designed for people who have normal hearing in one ear but little to no hearing in the other. Instead of amplifying sound like a traditional hearing aid, a CROS system captures sound from the weaker ear and wirelessly transmits it to the better ear. This allows users to hear sounds coming from both sides of their environment, even if one ear cannot process sound effectively.In this set up you wear the hearing aid on the better hearing side, and you wear an additional microphone on the poorer hearing side. This allows you to hear from the poorer side — even though it delivers all sounds to your better ear. This setup is beneficial to individuals with profound hearing loss in one ear and normal hearing in the other.
BiCROS (Bilateral Contralateral Routing of Signal) hearing aids
Works similarly to a CROS system but is designed for people with hearing loss in both ears, where one ear is significantly weaker than the other. The BiCROS system sends sound from the poorer ear to the stronger ear while also amplifying sound in the better ear to compensate for overall hearing loss. It is beneficial to people with asymmetrical hearing loss, where one ear has little to no hearing while the other has some degree of hearing loss.
OTC hearing aids with bluetooth
Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids represent a modern, technological leap in hearing aid technology, offering a seamless and personalized experience for users. With the ability to connect wirelessly to smartphones and other Bluetooth-compatible devices, these hearing aids combine cutting-edge features with ease of use, enhancing sound quality and providing a level of convenience that traditional hearing aids simply can’t match.
Models like the Eara Explore Li+ are perfect examples of how Bluetooth technology is changing the game, making it easier for people to control their hearing aids and enjoy more dynamic functionality.
Bluetooth hearing aids allow users to adjust settings, such as volume and frequency, directly from their smartphones through a dedicated app. This level of control provides a customized hearing experience tailored to different environments. Additionally, users can stream audio directly to their hearing aids, whether it’s music, TV, or podcasts, and even take hands-free calls through their devices.
Factor to consider when buying hearing aids
When it comes to selecting hearing aids, there are several important factors to consider to ensure you make the right choice for your needs. By understanding the key features and options available, you can make an informed choice that best suits your lifestyle and hearing needs. Below are the main factors to consider when purchasing hearing aids:
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Degree of hearing loss:
Adults experiencing mild to moderate hearing loss have a wider range of hearing aids to choose from, including the newly available over-the-counter (OTC) options. These OTC devices are easily accessible, as they do not require a hearing test or intervention from a licensed hearing professional. However, individuals with more severe hearing loss should seek an evaluation from a licensed professional, as they may need more powerful devices than OTC options can provide, and their needs may require additional customization. If you're unsure, you can check if you're experiencing symptoms that could benefit from OTC hearing aids, as outlined by the FDA, or take our optional hearing test to help guide your decision.
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Personal Preferences and Comfort with Technology:
Every person’s approach to hearing care is unique, and it’s important to consider your preferences when choosing hearing aids. Ask yourself the following questions to determine your ideal care model:
- Are you comfortable visiting an audiologist's office for initial tests and follow-up appointments, or would you prefer to manage your hearing aids from home without needing frequent in-person visits?
- How tech-savvy do you feel when it comes to using smartphones or apps? Do you want to control your hearing aids through your phone, adjusting settings as needed, or would you prefer a simpler, more traditional approach?
- Do you prefer hands-on support when it comes to cleaning and maintaining your hearing aids, or are you comfortable following guidance and managing these tasks independently?
- Would you like the option to reach out for professional assistance when needed, or are you comfortable making adjustments to your hearing aids on your own without the help of a professional?
For example, if you enjoy the convenience of handling your hearing aids independently and prefer not to visit an office regularly, over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids could be an excellent fit. However, if you’d like the flexibility of remote consultations combined with the ease of at-home management, Eara offers virtual guidance and 24/7 customer support. Ultimately, your choice should align with the severity of your hearing loss, how much hands-on care you want, and how comfortable you are with managing technology on your own.
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Financial Considerations and Value
Making an investment in your hearing health requires thoughtful consideration of your budget. We understand that everyone's financial situation is unique, and you're the best judge of what works for your circumstances. Our team is always here to help you understand your options and address any questions about costs.
When evaluating your hearing solution, it's important to consider all the factors we've discussed to find the right fit for you. Based on our experience helping many individuals with hearing loss, we're proud to offer the Explore Li+ hearing aids.
What sets this option apart is our commitment to ongoing care - with your purchase, you'll receive lifetime audiology consultations, a service valued at $800, at no additional cost. This ensures you have continuous professional support throughout your hearing health journey without worrying about additional consultation fees.
We understand that choosing a hearing aid is a significant decision, and we're here to help you make an informed choice that aligns with both your hearing needs and financial considerations.
Your Path to Better Hearing in 4 Simple Steps
Meet your perfect match
The Eara Explore Li+ Transform your hearing experience with our flagship device. Packed with cutting-edge features like seamless Bluetooth streaming, advanced noise reduction, and intuitive app control, the Explore Li+ delivers crystal-clear sound when you need it most. Whether you're in a busy restaurant or enjoying a quiet conversation, this sleek device adapts to your world.
Map Your Hearing Profile (Optional)
Want to know exactly where you stand? Take our quick online hearing test to get personalized insights. While not required for purchase, this clinically validated assessment helps fine-tune your experience. Remember: This test offers valuable guidance but isn't a medical diagnosis – for that, we recommend consulting a healthcare professional.
Shop with peace of mind
Ready to move forward? Our checkout process is as smooth as our sound quality. With bank-grade encryption and trusted payment methods, your purchase is protected every step of the way. We've made buying hearing aids online as secure as it is simple.
Experience Risk-Free Excellence
Your journey to better hearing is fully protected. Try the Explore Li+ for 45 days – if it's not the perfect fit, return it hassle-free. But that's not all; every purchase includes complimentary lifetime consultations with our audiologists ($800 value). You'll never have to navigate your hearing journey alone.
What to expect with your new hearing aids
When you begin wearing hearing aids, you're taking a practical step toward better hearing and communication. Your brain will gradually readjust to processing sounds that may have become less noticeable over time. During the initial adjustment period, you'll likely notice some sounds more distinctly:
- Your own voice sounding different or more pronounced
- The gentle tap of footsteps on various surfaces
- The crisp click of light switches
- The subtle sound of your hair brushing against the hearing aid's microphone
These rediscovered sounds are actually signs of success! As you consistently wear your hearing aids, these initially noticeable sounds will naturally blend into your daily soundscape. More importantly, you'll begin to better distinguish the subtle speech sounds that make conversations clearer and more engaging.
To help you along this journey, check out our 4-Week Adjustment Guide – a week-by-week roadmap designed to help you gradually adapt to your new hearing aids and unlock their full potential.
Section 3
Are OTC hearing aids covered by insurance, HSA, FSA & Medicare?
Current Medicare coverage
Today, traditional Medicare doesn't pay for hearing aids or audiology services. Some Medicare Advantage plans offer some coverage of hearing assessments and hearing aids. Medicare Advantage plans can offer additional benefits not covered by traditional Medicare. The number of Medicare Advantage plans offering some hearing benefits has been growing in recent years. From 2018 to 2020, the percentage of plans offering some type of hearing benefit increased from 83% of all Medicare Advantage plans to 93%.
Future additional coverage
Medicare’s operators finalized a proposal to make it easier to access audiology services starting in January 2023. The change removed the requirement that Medicare patients must first see their general practitioner before seeing an audiologist. Instead, the proposal allows older adults with longer-term (indirectly defined as lasting more than six months) hearing issues not have to first receive a general practitioner referral. In other words, this could save Medicare beneficiaries time and perhaps money. In 2021, the U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation providing traditional Medicare coverage for hearing aids and audiology services for beneficiaries with severe hearing loss, but the Senate did not follow suit. Any future hearing benefit covered by traditional Medicare would also then have to be covered by Medicare Advantage.
Section 4
About Eara
Better hearing should be simple, accessible, and tailored to you—that’s exactly what we offer at Eara. Just like eyeglasses, hearing aids are essential for living a full, independent life, and we’re making them the new norm.
Our high-quality OTC hearing aids provide a clear, comfortable listening experience at a fraction of the cost of prescription options—making better hearing more affordable than ever. But we’re more than just a hearing aid company. We’re your partner in hearing health, offering expert guides, tips, and 24/7 customer support whenever you need us. Plus, with a 45-day risk-free trial, you can experience the difference worry-free.
Eara Explore Li+
Our most advanced self-fitting Over-the-Counter Bluetooth hearing aid
The Eara Explore Li+ is designed to fit seamlessly into your life, offering premium features without the premium price.
20 hours of use on a single charge
Noise cancellation for clear sound in any environment
Bluetooth connectivity to stream music, calls and TV audio
Dedicated app for easy, personalized adjustments
Small & discreet designed for all-day comfort
4-week adjustment guide to help you adapt effortlessly
Lifetime audiological consultations with the best professional audiologists for expert guidance
Customer Reviews
Recommend them to anyone who is hard of hearing or has hearing loss due to noise. They are very useful and great quality. Very simple to set up and use. Makes the sound so clear and very light and sturdy. My father is hard of hearing so I purchased this and it works and now my father can hear well. Overall great results.
I have tried some otc aids. I was able to enter my own audiogram results on the app. The bluetooth connect works with one of our old phones with pressing once on aid volume to pair and they then connect to app. The hearing aids is progressive design. I wish I had a couple more increased volume levels but overall it's 90% and the most comfortable of all to wear in a hot climate. I am very happy to have chosen them.
The product looks well-made and the charging case is very nice. The case has a rubbery bottom so it doesn't slip on your desk. It comes with a cable to charge it, and you have the option to either use the case on its own to charge the hearing aids, or you can plug in the case and charge it and the hearing aids at the same time. This will be convenient for travel by using the case as a portable battery and not having to be around a USB port all the time to get a recharge. The charging case has lights to tell you when both the box, and each ear's hearing aid, are fully charged.
The set comes with concise, well-written instructions with nice illustrations and diagrams so you know exactly what they are talking about. App is easy to download and set up. Pairing to the app is pretty easy and the app remembers the devices for next time. I have an iPhone and had no trouble pairing and using this set with an iPhone, although I did discover that not only do you have to pair the hearing aids to the hearing aid app, but you also must go to Settings>Bluetooth on your phone and connect them there. I was able to get them to play music through both hearing aids after fiddling around with bluetooth and turning the power on and off. I did see later that there are instructions for this on page 19 of the manual, so it is documentedmy bad for not reading the manual thoroughly.
Once properly set up, the hearing aids switch easily from music or calls back to hearing aid function and vice versa without much effort on my part.
Although my hearing isn't super bad yet, I am older and it's declining slowly. Even though I can generally hear OK, I did notice a definite, noticeable difference in hearing quality when wearing these: things sounded much louder, crisper and sharper. There was very little if any whining even though I don't think the ear tips fit me especially well. The hearing aids are easy to wear and don't feel heavy; after having them on for a period of time, I didn't notice their presence, other than the improved hearing.
The set comes with a variety of ear tips and some tools to maintain the hearing aids. The instructions are pretty clear on how most of these accessories are to be used (although I couldn't find anywhere what the "fixed line" is for).
All these type of hearing aids have issues but the sound on these is about as good as you get and it has more ways to fine tune than most. I hope it last a while, so many of these seem to die quickly.
This is a great set of hearing aid with Bluetooth function. First of all, the quality of the sounds is super clear. The self voice is negligible, and the outside sounds are crystal clear. Second, there is a nice blue tooth function, that it can automatically switch between the hearing aid and blue tooth functions. The Bluetooth function is useful to answer phone calls and check messages. This product also has a nice APP(HA-Fit) that can do sound control and hearing evaluation by the phone. That is very convenient and useful. Another nice feather is there are two microphones on each earphone to pickup better voices. The multi-functional button can adjust volume (short press) and programs (longer press) with number of beeps as indicator. Program 3 is he best for me with super low noises. You can easily put the two earphones back in the base to turn them off and charge. The base box is smaller than a palm and can be hold in one hand. The battery lasts for long time.
