In the past, we called them “books-on-tape,” a term that feels almost archaic nowadays. Today 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 having to sit down and actually read.
Take a modern approach to reading with audiobooks
An audiobook allows you to “read” a book by listening to it. It’s essentially like somebody is narrating the book for you. This format offers an immersive way to investigate new concepts, get lost in captivating stories, or gain new knowledge. Beyond being a pleasurable pastime, audiobooks can also serve a more practical purpose: auditory training.
Auditory training – exactly what is it?
You might be wondering, “What exactly is auditory training”? It’s a specialized practice aimed at enhancing your ability to process, perceive, and interpret auditory information. For people adapting to wearing hearing aids, this kind of training can be particularly helpful. When somebody experiences untreated hearing loss, their brain progressively becomes accustomed to a quieter environment.
As a result, new sounds can at first seem overpowering when hearing aids are introduced.
Auditory training helps the brain adapt to these new auditory inputs, enhancing sound processing capabilities. For individuals who have auditory processing difficulties or language learning difficulties, auditory training can also be really helpful. Rather than simply sharpening hearing, auditory training helps you make sense of what you hear.
How audiobooks facilitate auditory training
There are several ways that audiobooks can help with auditory training:
- 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.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Exposure to a diversified range of words through audiobooks can improve your vocabulary.
- Enhanced Focus: When individuals listen to audiobooks, their attention is engaged for longer time periods. They can help reacquaint you with sustained listening, which is especially useful if you’re adjusting to new hearing aids.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks supply real-time practice in 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 comprehend spoken words.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding spoken words requires content comprehension not simply hearing words. Audiobooks can help improve your ability to follow everyday conversations by forcing your brain to associate words with concepts.
Making the most of audiobooks as an auditory tool
For optimal results, hearing specialists often suggest pairing audiobooks with a physical copy of the book. This dual strategy strengthens the connection between spoken and written language, potentially speeding up the adaptation process for new auditory inputs. The auditory training process will be improved by using audiobooks, making them an ideal complement to hearing aids.
How to access audiobooks
It’s easier than ever before to gain access to audiobooks. Subscriptions to services such as Audible and purchases from platforms like Amazon make it easy to access a wide assortment of titles. Also, listening to audiobooks wherever you find yourself is made possible with the convenience of smartphones.
If you’re struggling to find a suitable audiobook, podcasts offer a similar auditory experience on an assortment of topics. They can also be a great way to improve your hearing while keeping your mind engaged.
How to connect audiobooks to hearing aids
Many contemporary hearing aids come equipped with Bluetooth technology, allowing them to pair directly with your phone or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. This feature gets rid of the need for separate headphones, letting you listen to audiobooks directly through your hearing aids, ensuring a seamless and high-quality auditory experience.
Your hearing specialist is the first place to start
Scheduling a consultation with your hearing specialist is the first step if you’re thinking about incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training routine. They can help you improve your auditory skills by giving you individualized advice about how to get the most from this resource.
Reach out to us today to explore how audiobooks can assist your hearing journey.