In the past, we referred to them as “books-on-tape,” a term that seems almost archaic today. With the introduction of CDs and, more recently, digital streaming, the term “audiobook” has become the standard, and rightly so. 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
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 utilize this format to gain new knowledge, become immersed in captivating 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 may 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 type of training can be especially helpful. When somebody experiences untreated hearing loss, their brain progressively becomes used to a quieter environment.
Consequently, new sounds can initially seem overpowering when hearing aids are introduced.
Auditory training improves a person’s ability to process sound by helping the brain adjust to new sound inputs. It’s also advantageous for people who have language learning challenges or auditory processing disorders. Auditory training both clarifies what you’re hearing and helps you have better comprehension.
How do audiobooks help with auditory training?
There are several ways in which audiobooks can help with auditory training:
- Vocabulary Expansion: Exposure to a diverse assortment of words through audiobooks can improve your vocabulary.
- Pronunciation Practice: For individuals with hearing loss, social separation can sometimes lead to rusty communication skills. Listening to audiobooks helps with the pronunciation of words, which can improve general communication effectiveness.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding spoken words requires content comprehension not simply hearing words. Audiobooks can help enhance your ability to follow everyday conversations by forcing your brain to link words with concepts.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks provide real-time practice in understanding spoken language. Unlike spontaneous conversations, you can rewind and replay sections to develop comprehension. Your ability to comprehend spoken words can be fine-tuned by this practice.
- 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 set of hearing aids, becoming reacquainted with sustained listening by using audiobooks can be really helpful.
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 adjustment process may be accelerated by this connection between written and spoken words. Audiobooks are an effective complement to hearing aids, improving the auditory training experience.
Where to obtain audiobooks
Nowadays, audiobooks are more available than ever. Subscriptions to services such as Audible and purchases from websites like Amazon make it easy to access a wide assortment of titles. Additionally, with the convenience of cell phones, you can listen to audiobooks wherever you are, whether you’re at home or out and about.
Podcasts also present a similar auditory experience if you can’t decide on a particular audiobook you want to listen to. They can also be a practical way to improve your hearing while keeping your mind engaged.
Connecting your hearing aids to audiobooks
Bluetooth connectivity is a fairly common feature on many types of hearing aids nowadays which allows them to have a wireless link to your phone. This feature guarantees a high-quality, seamless auditory experience by allowing you to stream audiobooks straight to your hearing aids.
Your hearing specialist is the first place to begin
If you’re considering incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training regimen, it’s a good plan to consult with your hearing specialist. They can offer individualized 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.