5 Hearing Device Trends Shaping the Future of Audiology Care

As technology and consumer interests evolve, hearing devices continue to advance to meet the needs of all age groups. Hearing wellness is an important part of overall health, especially for aging populations who may be experiencing unnoticed hearing loss, but also for younger individuals facing increasing noise exposure. By staying informed on the latest developments in hearing devices, audiologists can better serve the diverse needs of their patients.

Recent trends in hearing devices are driven not only by cutting-edge technology but also by changing regulations and increased awareness about hearing health. For patients hesitant to adopt hearing devices or who hold misconceptions about them, these trends offer new opportunities to engage and motivate them toward proactive hearing care.

To navigate this changing landscape and provide the best care possible, hearing care professionals can familiarize themselves with these five trends shaping the future of hearing devices.

1. Consumer Tech Giants Enter Preventive Hearing Care

Some of the most trusted consumer technology brands are taking steps to get involved in preventive hearing care. For example, Apple recently released AirPods Pro 2, which comes with the ability to access a hearing test and a hearing aid feature.¹

Many modern hearing devices already offer connectivity with smartphones through Bluetooth®. Wearers can connect their hearing aids to an app on their smartphones and use the app to control volume and sound settings, track battery life and find lost hearing devices.

As popular consumer technology companies acknowledge the prevalence of hearing loss and offer accessible solutions, patients may become more open to using hearing devices. For those hesitant to embrace the devices they need, sharing news about familiar consumer tech products can serve as a helpful introduction to the benefits of improved hearing.

2. AI-Powered Hearing Devices Enhance Personalized Care

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming numerous industries and technologies, and hearing devices are no exception. Like other wearables, hearing aids can be programmed with AI technology to track wearers’ habits and environments to provide hearing care professionals with advanced data to inform their care.

In the near future, AI-enabled hearing devices could potentially send real-time biometrics or other information to audiologists, as well as provide users with feedback, such as alerting them to high-risk noise environments.²

In addition, AI-enabled hearing devices continuously analyze the sounds in a patient’s environment, automatically adapting to deliver a more natural and clear listening experience. Over time, as patients use these devices, the AI learns to predict what settings will work best for the patient in different situations.³

3. Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids Expand Accessibility

The market for over-the-counter (OTC) hearing devices has exploded since they were approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2022. Globally, the OTC hearing aid market size is projected to reach $996.36 million in 2025 and is expected to grow significantly by 2035, with a compounded annual growth rate of 6.1%.⁴

While OTC hearing aids may not require a prescription and professional fitting from a hearing care professional, audiologists continue to play an important role in supporting patients who choose these devices. Offering services such as hearing exams and personalized guidance on selection and fitting, as well as customization, can help patients get the most benefit from OTC options.

Additionally, by working directly with pharmacists, hearing care professionals can enhance their ability to assist customers in need of hearing devices.⁵

4. 3D Printing Transforms Custom Ear Mold Production

Customized ear molds, designed to fit each patient’s ear canal, are increasingly common for hearing protection and effectively channeling sound from hearing aids to the eardrum. Traditionally, patients waited weeks for these custom-made ear molds, but advances in 3D printing have significantly accelerated the process.⁶

Audiologists who want to provide customized ear molds with a fast turnaround may consider investing in a 3D printer and accompanying software. Instead of taking physical ear impressions, a digital scan of the ear can be used to produce highly accurate and personalized ear molds.⁷

5. Telehealth Expands Audiology Services Beyond the Clinic

While you might currently prefer using telehealth primarily for patient counseling and education, you may want to consider using telehealth for the following services:

• Otoscopy
• Pure-tone and imminence audiometry
• Otoacoustic emissions assessments
• Auditory brainstem assessments
• Fitting, verifying and maintaining hearing devices and cochlear implants

Audiologists Can Capitalize on the Trends

As hearing patients experience new technologies and customization in other products, they are likely to expect the same trends and service levels from their hearing care professionals. For example, new technology makes it possible to provide hearing devices that are smaller, discreet, stylish and customizable, which may make them more appealing to patients of all ages.

Audiologists who stay informed about the latest trends in hearing devices and keep up with the newest developments in their practices may be better prepared to stay competitive and provide their patients with the services and solutions they expect.

A Patient Financing Solution for Your Hearing Care Practice

If you want to help your patients manage the cost of your practice’s exams, procedures and products, consider offering the CareCredit credit card as a financing solution. CareCredit allows cardholders to pay for things like hearing care services and devices over time while helping to enhance the payments process for your practice.

When you accept CareCredit, patients can see if they prequalify with no impact to their credit score, and those who apply, if approved, can take advantage of special financing on qualifying purchases.* Additionally, you will be paid directly within two business days.

Learn more about the CareCredit credit card as a patient financing solution for your hearing care practice or start the provider enrollment process by filling out this form.

Author Bio

Nancy Mann Jackson is a journalist and content writer who writes regularly about finance and healthcare. Her work has been published by AARP, CNBC, Entrepreneur and Fortune. 

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