Hearing aid guides

Practical explainers checked against public-health and regulator sources. Medical guidance is information only and not clinician-reviewed.

All topics Choosing & Buying Styles & Technology Understanding Hearing Loss For Family & Friends

Guide Choosing & Buying PSAP vs OTC Hearing Aid: What Is the Difference? A personal sound amplification product, or PSAP, is a consumer electronic for people with normal hearing who want selected sounds louder. A genuine US OTC hearing aid is an FDA-regulated medical device for adults with perceived mild-to-moderate hearing loss. Marketing appearance alone does not establish the category. 4 min read · updated Aug 2026 Ask the Sherpa
Guide Choosing & Buying OTC vs Prescription Hearing Aids In the US, OTC hearing aids are FDA-regulated devices for adults 18 or older with perceived mild-to-moderate hearing loss and require no prescription or professional fitting. Prescription aids are obtained through licensed hearing-care channels, can serve broader ages and hearing levels, and include professional evaluation and fitting. 5 min read · updated Aug 2026 Ask the Sherpa