Remember way back when we used to call audiobooks “books on tape”? With the introduction of CDs and, more recently, digital streaming, the term “audiobook” has become the norm, and rightly so. 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 simply listen to it. Essentially, it’s comparable to having someone narrate the book to you. You can use this format to acquire new knowledge, become absorbed in enchanting stories, and explore new concepts. Beyond being an enjoyable pastime, audiobooks can also serve a more functional purpose: auditory training.
What is auditory training?
You might be wondering, “What exactly is auditory training”? Auditory training is a practice designed to help a person perceive and better comprehend audio information. For individuals adapting to wearing hearing aids, this type of training can be particularly helpful. When someone experiences untreated hearing loss, their brain gradually becomes used to a quieter environment.
When new sounds are first introduced, they can seem overwhelming as a result.
Auditory training increases a person’s ability to process sound by helping the brain adapt to new sound inputs. For people who have auditory processing difficulties or language learning difficulties, auditory training can also be very helpful. Rather than simply clarifying hearing, auditory training helps you comprehend what you hear.
How do audiobooks help with auditory training?
Listening to audiobooks can substantially aid in auditory training through various mechanisms:
- Vocabulary Expansion: Audiobooks can broaden your vocabulary by exposing you to a diverse range of words.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks are a great way for an individual to practice understanding 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 grasp spoken words.
- Enhanced Focus: When people listen to audiobooks, their attention is engaged for longer periods of time. When somebody is trying to adapt to a new pair of hearing aids, becoming reacquainted with sustained listening by using audiobooks can be very helpful.
- Pronunciation Practice: Communication skills can often become rusty after a period of social separation. Communication will be more successful after listening to audiobooks because they help with pronunciation.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding spoken words requires content comprehension not simply hearing words. Audiobooks challenge your brain to link words with concepts, which can enhance your ability to follow conversations in everyday settings.
Optimizing audiobooks as auditory tools
For maximum results, hearing specialists usually recommend pairing audiobooks with a physical copy of the book. This dual strategy strengthens the link between spoken and written language, potentially accelerating the adaptation process for new auditory inputs. The auditory training process will be enhanced by using audiobooks, making them a valuable complement to hearing aids.
How to access audiobooks
It’s easier than ever before to gain access to audiobooks. There is a wide variety of audiobooks obtainable on streaming services like Audible and other platforms like Amazon. 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 offer a similar auditory experience on a variety of topics. They are also an ideal way to engage your mind while enhancing your hearing.
How to link audiobooks to hearing aids
Many modern hearing aids come equipped with Bluetooth technology, letting them pair directly with your phone or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. This feature eliminates 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 begin
Scheduling a consultation with your hearing specialist is the first step if you’re considering incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training routine. They can offer personalized advice and help you make the most of this resource to enhance your auditory skills.
Call us today and let us help you be more successful with your auditory training.