In the past, we referred to them as “books-on-tape,” a term that seems almost archaic nowadays. Today 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 modern approach to reading
With audiobooks, you don’t need to actually read a book, you can simply listen to it. Essentially, it’s akin to having somebody narrate the book to you. You can utilize this format to acquire new knowledge, become absorbed in captivating stories, and explore new ideas. 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”? It’s a specialized practice aimed at improving your ability to process, perceive, and decipher auditory information. For individuals adapting to wearing hearing aids, this kind of training can be especially helpful. When somebody experiences untreated hearing loss, their brain progressively becomes used to a quieter environment.
As a result, new sounds can at first seem overpowering when hearing aids are introduced.
Auditory training increases a person’s ability to process sound by helping the brain adapt to new sound inputs. It’s also useful for individuals who have language learning challenges or auditory processing conditions. Auditory training both sharpens what you’re hearing and helps you have better comprehension.
How audiobooks facilitate auditory training
There are a number of ways that audiobooks can help with auditory training:
- Pronunciation Practice: Communication skills can often become rusty after a period of social isolation. Communication will be more successful after listening to audiobooks because they help with pronunciation.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding spoken words involves content comprehension not just hearing words. Audiobooks challenge your brain to link words with concepts, which can improve your ability to follow conversations in everyday settings.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks are an excellent way for an individual to practice understanding spoken language. Unlike audiobooks, with daily conversation, you don’t have the ability to rewind and replay what was said. This practice helps in fine-tuning your ability to grasp spoken words.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Audiobooks can broaden your vocabulary by exposing you to a diverse range of words.
- Enhanced Focus: Audiobooks encourage longer periods of attention and involvement. They can help reacquaint you with sustained listening, which is particularly useful if you’re adjusting to new hearing aids.
Optimizing audiobooks as auditory tools
For optimal results, hearing specialists usually suggest pairing audiobooks with a physical copy of the book. This dual approach reinforces the link between spoken and written language, potentially accelerating the adaptation process for new auditory inputs. The auditory training experience will be enhanced by using audiobooks, making them an ideal complement to hearing aids.
Where to obtain audiobooks
It’s easier than ever before to access audiobooks. Subscriptions to services such as Audible and purchases from websites like Amazon make it easy to access a wide assortment of titles. Moreover, with the convenience of cell phones, you can listen to audiobooks anywhere, whether you’re at home or out and about.
If you’re struggling to find a suitable audiobook, podcasts provide a similar auditory experience on an assortment of subjects. They are also a great way to engage your mind while enhancing your hearing.
Connecting your hearing aids to audiobooks
Many modern hearing aids come equipped with Bluetooth technology, letting them pair directly with your phone or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. This feature gets rid of the need for separate headphones, allowing you to listen to audiobooks directly through your hearing aids, ensuring a seamless and high-quality auditory experience.
Talk to your hearing specialist
Setting up a consultation with your hearing specialist is the first step if you’re thinking about incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training routine. They can offer individualized advice and help you make the most of this resource to enhance your auditory skills.
Contact us today to explore how audiobooks can assist your hearing journey.