For the first time, over-the-counter hearing aids have become available across America, but potential purchasers should be cautious.

For the first time, over-the-counter hearing aids have become available across America. But potential purchasers should be cautious.

A new report by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine estimates a large majority of those over age 50 who may benefit from hearing aids don't use them. Champaign County Health Care Consumers says the primary problem is affordability, since the devices cost thousands of dollars.