Hearing Aid Tech Isn’t Just for Listening Anymore

There may come a day when everyone will be wearing hearing aids. That’s because today’s hearing aids can do much more than clarify and amplify sound. Companies like Starkey are adding features like cognitive activity tracking and exercise monitoring. They’re developing tech that aims to warn users before they might fall and predict aspects of mental health too. If barriers like high cost and social stigma are addressed, hearing aids could become a vital accessory, whether or not you’re one of the 55 million Americans projected to have hearing loss by 2030. What do you think about the show? Let us know on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, or email us: FOEPodcast@wsj.com  Further reading:  Wait, Are Hearing Aids Cool Now? Ask Millennials  ​​Apple AirPods Could Help You Hear Better  Buying Help for Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids—Whether You Spend $250 or $2,500  Cheaper Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids Are Coming. Here’s How to Comparison Shop.   Cures for Hearing Loss May Be Found in New Drugs  Using Teeth to Help Restore Hearing Better Hearing Can Lead to Better Thinking Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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What will the future look like? The Future of Everything offers a kaleidoscope view of the nascent trends that will shape our world. In every episode, join our award-winning team on a new journey of discovery. We’ll take you beyond what’s already out there, and make you smarter about the scientific and technological breakthroughs on the horizon that could transform our lives for the better.