Remember way back when we used to refer to audiobooks as “books on tape”? Nowadays we have digital streaming services and the term “audiobooks” has become the common term. Audiobooks offer a modern, convenient way to enjoy literature, turning the experience of reading into one of listening.
Take a contemporary approach to reading with audiobooks
With audiobooks, you won’t need to actually read a book, you can just listen to it. Essentially, it’s akin to having somebody narrate the book to you. You can use this format to gain new knowledge, become immersed in enchanting stories, and explore new concepts. Audiobooks can also serve as a source of auditory training.
What is auditory training?
So what exactly is “auditory training”? It’s a specialized practice aimed at enhancing your ability to process, perceive, and interpret auditory information. This training becomes especially useful for individuals using hearing aids. When someone experiences untreated hearing loss, their brain gradually becomes used to a quieter environment.
Consequently, new sounds can at first seem overwhelming when hearing aids are introduced.
Auditory training helps the brain adjust to these new auditory inputs, improving sound processing capabilities. For individuals who have auditory processing problems or language learning challenges, auditory training can also be very helpful. Auditory training both sharpens what you’re hearing and helps you have better comprehension.
How do audiobooks assist with auditory training?
Engaging with audiobooks can significantly help with auditory training through a variety of mechanisms:
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks provide real-time practice in understanding spoken words. Unlike spontaneous conversations, you can rewind and replay sections to improve comprehension. This practice helps in fine-tuning your ability to grasp spoken words.
- Enhanced Focus: When individuals listen to audiobooks, their attention is engaged for longer periods of time. They can help reacquaint you with sustained listening, which is especially useful if you’re adapting to new hearing aids.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding speech involves more than just hearing the words; it requires comprehension of the content. Audiobooks challenge your brain to associate words with concepts, which can improve your ability to follow conversations in daily settings.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Audiobooks can broaden your vocabulary by exposing you to a diversified range of words.
- Pronunciation Practice: Communication skills can often become rusty after a period of social separation. Communication will be more effective after listening to audiobooks because they help with pronunciation.
Making the most of audiobooks as an auditory tool
Hearing specialists often recommend the pairing of an audiobook with a physical copy for best results. For new audio inputs, the adaptation process could be accelerated by this connection between written and spoken words. The auditory training process will be improved by using audiobooks, making them an ideal complement to hearing aids.
Where to find audiobooks
It’s easier than ever before to access audiobooks. Subscriptions to services like Audible and purchases from websites like Amazon make it easy to access a wide range of titles. Also, listening to audiobooks anywhere you find yourself is made possible with the convenience of smartphones.
If you’re having trouble finding a suitable audiobook, podcasts provide a similar auditory experience on a wide range of topics. They can also be a practical way to enhance your hearing while keeping your mind involved.
Linking your hearing aids to audiobooks
Many modern hearing aids come furnished with Bluetooth technology, letting them pair directly with your phone or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. This feature eliminates the need for separate headphones, allowing you to 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 considering incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training regimen, it’s a good idea to talk to your hearing specialist. They can help you improve your auditory skills by giving you individualized advice about how to get the most out of this resource.
Contact us today to explore how audiobooks can assist your hearing journey.
