Buying new hearing aids can be stressful because you don't want to feel them once you put them on. You want to be able to hear everything you need to hear and forget about the device. But before they become natural and an integral part of your daily life, you first need to get used to them. We've put together these 7 tips to make the transition to your new hearing aids as smooth as possible.
1. First and foremost, find the right fit
Start by inserting your Atom 2 series device into your ear canal to find the correct positioning. Test the different eartip sizes and choose the one that provides a perfect seal when the device is in place. Remember to slightly rotate or move the device in the ear canal until you find the most comfortable insertion angle. A perfect fit limits whistling and guarantees the best possible comfort.
For some customers with narrow ear canals, the Atom 2 may prove too bulky for comfortable wear; in this case, we recommend switching to the even more compact Atom Pro 2!
2. Find the right volume level & listening mode
Once you've found the right fit, you can look for the volume level that suits you. We recommend starting at level 1, the lowest volume setting.
Adjusting the volume
By simply pressing the button on the device, you cycle through the levels, from 1 to 5. Each volume level emits a "beep": 1 beep for level 1, 2 beeps for level 2, and so on. Start at level 1 in each ear. Once the correct mode is selected (next step), you can gradually adjust the volume to your liking.
Adjusting the mode
To change modes, press and hold the same button for 3 seconds, until you hear a deeper "boop". The principle is the same as for the volume: 1 "boop" for mode 1, 2 "boops" for mode 2, and so on.
The most commonly used mode is mode 1, designed for conversations. We recommend mode 2 in noisy environments, mode 3 while driving, and mode 4 outdoors.
Once the volume & mode are perfectly adapted to your needs, everything is set!
3. Insert your hearing aids carefully to avoid whistling and feedback
Many users hear whistling and feedback when inserting their hearing aids. This is most often due to the volume being set too high: finding an appropriate sound level, as explained in tip #2, is therefore essential for safe device insertion.
Furthermore, when inserting, locate the microphone and be careful not to apply pressure to it. If you insert the device at the correct volume level and without pressing the microphone, you should significantly reduce, or even completely eliminate, feedback and whistling.
4. Wear them for as long as possible from the start
The first week of wearing them is the most difficult. Wear your devices for as long as you can to quickly get used to different listening situations. We recommend starting with 8 to 10 hours a day. This will help you get over the hump and quickly acclimate to the sounds perceived through your new hearing aids.
5. Expect some frustration at first
Going from no device at all to regularly wearing an in-ear device is not a trivial change. Expect a slight discomfort at first, until your ears get used to the sensation. A little skin irritation is possible in the first few days, but it will subside as the skin in your ear canals gets used to the device's presence.
6. Don't hesitate to ask for help
Getting used to hearing aids isn't easy. You might sometimes feel alone, or feel like you have no one to turn to on your journey to better hearing. At CLARIA, we want you to feel that we are by your side every step of the way — and we truly are.
If you encounter any problems with your device, have a question, or need anything at all, our fantastic support team is here to help. Visit the CLARIA Help Center to consult the FAQ and our resources, or to contact us via chat. You can also write to us at support@claria.com or call 205-255-1112 to reach our phone team.
7. Gradually increase wearing time and continue to use them
The hardest part of getting used to new hearing aids? Continuing to wear them! Many people say they got annoyed by minor inconveniences or simply lost motivation. We want to encourage you to stay true to your goal: to hear better. And, as we've explained, getting used to hearing aids takes time. That's why we recommend a regular approach: start slowly, then gradually increase wearing time.
In the first week, wear them 1 to 2 hours a day. In weeks 1 to 2, wear them 3 to 4 hours a day. And after 3 to 4 weeks, you should be able to wear them all day!
Once you've reached this milestone, be consistent. Your ears and brain are now used to daily wear, and if you keep it up, you will inevitably be more present with your loved ones, and simply happier and healthier.
At CLARIA, our #1 mission is to make hearing accessible to everyone.
So give your new hearing aids a chance! If you follow the steps above, we are convinced that you will find a device you will love and wear all the time!
