In the past, we called them “books-on-tape,” a term that seems almost archaic nowadays. 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 having to sit down and actually read.
Take a modern approach to reading with audiobooks
With audiobooks, you don’t need to actually read a book, you can simply listen to it. Fundamentally, it’s akin to having someone narrate the book to you. You can utilize this format to acquire new knowledge, become immersed in enchanting stories, and explore new concepts. Audiobooks can also function as a source of auditory training.
Auditory training – exactly what is it?
So what exactly is “auditory training”? Auditory training is a practice tailored to helping an individual perceive and better comprehend audio information. For people adapting to using hearing aids, this type of training can be especially helpful. For someone who is coping with neglected hearing loss, living in a quieter environment becomes the norm.
When new sounds are first introduced, they can seem overwhelming as a result.
Auditory training improves a person’s ability to process sound by helping the brain adapt to new sound inputs. For people who have auditory processing problems or language learning challenges, auditory training can also be really helpful. Rather than simply sharpening hearing, auditory training helps you make sense of what you hear.
How do audiobooks help with auditory training?
Engaging with audiobooks can significantly help with auditory training through a variety of mechanisms:
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks provide real-time practice in comprehending spoken words. Unlike spontaneous conversations, you can rewind and replay sections to improve comprehension. Your ability to understand spoken words can be refined by this practice.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Audiobooks can expand your vocabulary by exposing you to a diverse range of words.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding spoken words involves content comprehension not simply hearing words. Audiobooks challenge your brain to link words with concepts, which can enhance your ability to follow conversations in daily settings.
- Pronunciation Practice: Communication skills can often become rusty after a period of social isolation. Listening to audiobooks helps with the pronunciation of words, which can improve overall communication effectiveness.
- Enhanced Focus: Audiobooks encourage longer periods of attention and involvement. When someone is attempting to adapt to a new pair of hearing aids, becoming reacquainted with sustained listening by using audiobooks can be very helpful.
Maximizing audiobooks as auditory tools
Hearing specialists frequently suggest the pairing of an audiobook with a physical copy for maximum results. For new audio inputs, the adjustment process may be accelerated by this connection between written and spoken words. The auditory training experience will be improved by using audiobooks, making them an ideal complement to hearing aids.
Where to obtain audiobooks
Nowadays, audiobooks are more available than ever. Subscriptions to services like Audible and purchases from websites like Amazon make it easy to access a wide range of titles. Furthermore, with the convenience of smartphones, you can listen to audiobooks anywhere, 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 great way to enhance your hearing while keeping your mind involved.
Linking your hearing aids to audiobooks
Bluetooth connectivity is a pretty common feature on many types of hearing aids these days which allows them to have a wireless connection to your phone. This feature ensures a high-quality, seamless auditory experience by allowing you to stream audiobooks straight to your hearing aids.
Talk to your hearing specialist
Scheduling a consultation with your hearing specialist is the first step if you’re considering incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training program. 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.