Remember way back when we used to call audiobooks “books on tape”? Nowadays we have digital streaming services and the term “audiobooks” has become the common term. Audiobooks allow you to enjoy literature while on the go without needing to sit down and actually read.
Audiobooks: a contemporary approach to reading
An audiobook allows you to “read” a book by listening to it. Fundamentally, it’s akin to having somebody narrate the book to you. This format offers an immersive way to investigate new ideas, get lost in captivating stories, or gain new knowledge. Beyond being a pleasurable pastime, audiobooks can also serve a more functional purpose: auditory training.
Auditory training – exactly what is it?
So what exactly is “auditory training”? It’s a specialized practice aimed at enhancing your ability to process, perceive, and decipher auditory information. For individuals adapting to wearing hearing aids, this kind of training can be especially helpful. For somebody who has neglected hearing loss, living in a quieter environment becomes the norm.
When new sounds are initially introduced, they can seem overpowering as a result.
Auditory training helps the brain adjust to these new auditory inputs, improving sound processing capabilities. For people who have auditory processing difficulties or language learning difficulties, auditory training can also be very helpful. Rather than simply sharpening hearing, auditory training helps you comprehend what you hear.
How audiobooks assist auditory training
Engaging with audiobooks can significantly aid in auditory training through various mechanisms:
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding speech involves more than just hearing the words; it requires comprehension of the content. Audiobooks challenge your brain to link words with concepts, which can improve your ability to follow conversations in everyday settings.
- Pronunciation Practice: For those with hearing loss, social isolation can sometimes lead to rusty communication skills. Communication will be more effective after listening to audiobooks because they help with pronunciation.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks are an excellent way for an individual to practice comprehending spoken language. Unlike audiobooks, with live conversation, you don’t have the ability to rewind and re-listen to what was said. This practice helps in fine-tuning your ability to understand spoken words.
- Enhanced Focus: When people listen to audiobooks, their attention is engaged for longer periods of time. When someone is attempting to adapt to a new pair of hearing aids, becoming reacquainted with sustained listening by using audiobooks can be very helpful.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Exposure to a diverse range of words through audiobooks can enrich your vocabulary.
Getting the most out of audiobooks as an auditory tool
Hearing specialists frequently suggest the pairing of an audiobook with a physical copy for best results. This dual approach reinforces the connection between spoken and written language, potentially accelerating the adaptation process for new auditory inputs. Audiobooks are a valuable complement to hearing aids, improving the auditory training process.
How to access audiobooks
Nowadays, audiobooks are more accessible than ever. Subscriptions to services like Audible and purchases from platforms like Amazon make it easy to access a wide array of titles. Additionally, with the convenience of smartphones, you can listen to audiobooks wherever you are, whether you’re at home or on the go.
Podcasts also provide a similar auditory experience if you can’t decide on a specific audiobook you want to listen to. They are also an ideal way to engage your mind while enhancing your hearing.
Connecting your hearing aids to audiobooks
Bluetooth connectivity is a fairly common feature on many models of hearing aids nowadays which allows them to have a wireless link to your phone. This feature gets rid of the need for separate headphones, letting you listen to audiobooks directly through your hearing aids, guaranteeing a seamless and high-quality auditory experience.
Your hearing specialist is the first place to start
If you’re thinking about introducing audiobooks into your auditory training program, it’s a good plan to consult with your hearing specialist. They can help you develop your auditory skills by giving you individualized advice about how to get the most out of this resource.
Call us today and let us help you be more successful with your auditory training.