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 familiar term. Audiobooks allow you to enjoy literature while on the go without needing to sit down and actually read.
Take a modern approach to reading with audiobooks
An audiobook lets you “read” a book by listening to it. Fundamentally, it’s comparable to having someone narrate the book to you. You can use this format to gain new knowledge, become immersed in enchanting stories, and explore new ideas. Audiobooks can also function as a source of auditory training.
What is auditory training?
So what exactly is “auditory training”? Auditory training is a practice designed to help an individual perceive and better understand audio information. This training becomes particularly useful for people who use hearing aids. When somebody experiences untreated hearing loss, their brain progressively becomes accustomed to a quieter environment.
Consequently, new sounds can at first seem overwhelming when hearing aids are introduced.
Auditory training increases a person’s ability to process sound by helping the brain adapt to new sound inputs. For individuals who have auditory processing problems or language learning challenges, auditory training can also be really helpful. Auditory training both clarifies what you’re hearing and helps you have better comprehension.
How audiobooks facilitate auditory training
There are several ways that audiobooks can help with auditory training:
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks supply real-time practice in understanding spoken words. Unlike audiobooks, with live conversation, you don’t have the ability to rewind and re-listen to what was said. This practice helps in refining your ability to comprehend spoken words.
- Pronunciation Practice: Communication skills can frequently become rusty after a period of social separation. Communication will be more successful after listening to audiobooks because they help with pronunciation.
- Enhanced Focus: Audiobooks encourage longer periods of attention and involvement. When somebody is trying to adapt to a new set of hearing aids, becoming reacquainted with sustained listening by using audiobooks can be really helpful.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Audiobooks can broaden your vocabulary by exposing you to a diversified range of words.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding spoken words involves content comprehension not just hearing words. Audiobooks challenge your brain to associate 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 suggest pairing audiobooks with a physical copy of the book. This dual approach strengthens the link between spoken and written language, potentially accelerating the adaptation process for new auditory inputs. Audiobooks are an effective complement to hearing aids, enhancing the auditory training experience.
Where to obtain audiobooks
Nowadays, audiobooks are more accessible than ever. Subscriptions to services like Audible and purchases from websites like Amazon make it easy to access a wide assortment of titles. Furthermore, with the convenience of smartphones, you can listen to audiobooks anywhere, whether you’re at home or on the go.
If you’re struggling to find 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 engaged.
Connecting your hearing aids to audiobooks
Bluetooth connectivity is a pretty common feature on many models of hearing aids these days 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
Setting up a consultation with your hearing specialist is the first step if you’re thinking about introducing audiobooks into your auditory training program. They can help you improve your auditory skills by giving you individualized advice about how to get the most out of this resource.
Reach out to us today to explore how audiobooks can support your hearing journey.