One of the latest hearing solutions involves something you might use every day: Apple AirPods Pro 2. Apple has announced a feature that will give these Apple AirPods hearing aid abilities. While this new update may help some, it must be combined with customized treatment from a qualified Doctor of Audiology like our team at Hearing Doctors of New Jersey.
Can Apple AirPods Be Used as Hearing Aids?
Apple recently announced that AirPods Pro 2 would have a new update that would allow the earbuds to function as hearing aids. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the software update that allows for this functionality, but the approval for the actual Airpods hearing aid function is still pending.
This decision was made in part because, in October 2022, the FDA allowed for the sale of hearing aids without the need for a prescription, making it easier to access non-prescription hearing aids and hearing devices.
How do they work? This new feature will be accessible via settings in the iOS 18 when paired with Apple AirPods Pro 2. To access the feature, you must receive a result of mild to moderate hearing loss from the software’s hearing test or upload test results from your doctor.
Once the new feature is accessed, the AirPods Pro 2 allows you to control the volume of the noise around you. This doesn’t mean you will have better clarity. It means the noises around you will be louder, not clearer.
Why Partnering With A Doctor of Audiology Is So Important
It is important to note that using the hearing aid feature within the AirPods Pro 2 is not a substitute for medically diagnosing and treating your hearing loss with the help of a Doctor of Audiology. Hearing loss is considered a progressive degenerative disorder, meaning that it will get worse over time. Proper medical oversight by a Doctor of Audiology ensures that as your hearing changes, the prescription within the technology you’re using is updated to keep you always hearing your best.
Because hearing loss is considered a major medical condition, it’s best treated by a medical professional who can properly diagnose and treat your condition. The goal of proper medical treatment is to give you back clarity and reduce the associated risks of dementia and falls. While these AirPods hearing aids may help some people, it should go hand in hand with a diagnosis and treatment plan from your doctor.
Customized Hearing Treatment at Hearing Doctors of New Jersey
At Hearing Doctors of New Jersey, we know that hearing loss and treatment is not a one-size-fits-all issue. Everyone’s hearing loss is different, and everyone needs different treatment.
With our H.E.A.R. MethodTM Treatment Program, our Doctors of Audiology, Dr. Nesson and Dr. May, will customize a treatment plan to meet all your needs. They will take the time to address your questions and concerns so you feel comfortable and cared for through every step of your hearing journey.
Hearing Loss Solutions in New Jersey
To learn more about hearing loss treatment, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with one of our Doctors of Audiology at Hearing Doctors of New Jersey today. Call our Livingston, NJ office at 973-874-2790 or message us via our online contact form.
