At Hearing Healthcare Practice, we see ourselves as audiological guides. This means we take the time to stay up-to-date with the latest hearing aid technologies and testing methods, so we can provide clear, trusted advice to anyone who reaches out for support.
Recently, there’s been a lot of buzz online about over-the-counter (OTC) hearing solutions—particularly the launch of a new hearing-enhancing product built into a stylish pair of spectacles: Nuance Audio.
Study data indicates there are a total of 18.3 million people in the UK with hearing loss: the vast majority (16.2 million) experiencing mild to moderate loss. It is believed that some 90%, a staggering 14.5 million, are currently not wearing aids which is why Nuance Audio was created to address the key barriers which have been identified as the main reasons for this:
- 1. Stigma – Many people are reluctant to wear traditional-looking hearing aids.
- 2. Comfort and Convenience – Some feel they don’t need full-time hearing support if they only notice issues in specific situations
- 3. Cost – Price remains a barrier for some making hearing aids feel like an unaffordable luxury.
As hearing experts, we are concerned the adoption of head-worn technologies to enhance hearing is so low considering the prevalence of hearing loss in the community. In our experience, people hesitate to seek help for many reasons—some emotional, some practical—and we believe it’s our job to meet people where they are with honest, upfront transparent advice.
When we first heard about Nuance Audio, we were both excited and curious. It seemed full of promise, but we had questions — particularly around the claims being made and how the product may be distributed.
Initially, our plan was simple: We’d only offer Nuance Audio to clients following a comprehensive hearing evaluation with one of our expert audiologists. That’s the gold standard we’ve always followed.
But things have evolved and we decided to update our guidance as Nuance Audio becomes available online, through optical retail chains and by mail order, without an audiologist carrying out a clinical evaluation. This has raised an important ethical question for us: Do we hold firm to our original policy, or do we adapt so more people feel comfortable approaching us for support? At least with our involvement people will have the peace of mind to know whether they are a suitable candidate for Nuance Audio hearing glasses. We can make sure they are provided with clear instructions and the best guidance. So after some careful thought and much discussion, we decided to evolve.
We’re delighted that Hearing Healthcare Practice is paving the way as the first audiological clinic in the UK to offer Nuance Audio hearing-enhancing glasses. And now, we’re making them available to purchase directly, without the need for a clinical-grade consultation – if that’s what you prefer. To simplify the process we’ve created a simple self-evaluation questionnaire you can complete at home to help determine if Nuance Audio could work for you. Just give us a call or send us an email, and we’ll send it over.
We also have a test at home Online Hearing Test available by clicking HERE. It’s a simple automated evaluation but it might help you to get to grips with your hearing and, possibly, indicate the need for a more in-depth assessment. The test is free, it takes around 5 minutes and the results are immediate. And if you’d like to test out Nuance Audio yourself, you can pop into the practice or we’ll order a pair for you — either for collection or home delivery.
The frames come ready fitted with photochromic lenses (they darken in sunlight), and the hearing function can be turned on and off via a smartphone app. The good news is that if you find they’re not quite right for you, you can return them (some terms and conditions apply). If that happens, we’d encourage you to come in for a more in – depth hearing test so we can explore the other fantastic solutions available to you.
Our commitment to professional audiological care hasn’t changed. We still believe the best approach is to start with a comprehensive consultation. But we also recognise that for some people uncertainty may be stopping them from taking that first step.
A drop in visit or a clinical-grade evaluation, you choose.
If you decide you’d prefer a full hearing assessment, we’ll talk about your lifestyle and hearing goals, and explore whether technology like Nuance is a good fit. If it is, we’ll set them up properly, help you get to grips with the app, and make sure you get the most from them. And if there’s something better suited, we’ll be honest about that too.
Offering Nuance Audio glasses ‘over the counter’ or as part of an in depth clinical test is our way of bridging the gap — so that more people can begin their hearing journey in a way that feels comfortable, approachable, and empowering.
Interested in learning more?
Just reach out to us by phone or email—we’re always here to help.
You can contact us and make an appointment HERE.