Remember way back when we used to refer to audiobooks as “books on tape”? Today we have digital streaming services and the term “audiobooks” has become the common term. Audiobooks offer a modern, convenient way to enjoy literature, transforming the experience of reading into one of listening.
Take a contemporary approach to reading with audiobooks
With audiobooks, you won’t need to actually read a book, you can just listen to it. It’s basically like someone is narrating the book for you. This format offers an immersive way to investigate new ideas, get lost in captivating stories, or gain new knowledge. Beyond being an enjoyable pastime, audiobooks can also serve a more functional purpose: auditory training.
Auditory training – exactly what is it?
You might be wondering, “What exactly is auditory training”? Auditory training is a practice designed to help an individual perceive and better comprehend audio information. This training becomes particularly relevant for people using hearing aids. For someone who has neglected hearing loss, living in a quieter environment becomes the norm.
Consequently, new sounds can initially seem overpowering when hearing aids are introduced.
Auditory training helps the brain adjust to these new auditory inputs, improving sound processing capabilities. It’s also useful for those with language learning difficulties or auditory processing disorders. Rather than simply clarifying hearing, auditory training helps you comprehend what you hear.
How do audiobooks help with auditory training?
Listening to audiobooks can substantially help with auditory training through a variety of mechanisms:
- Enhanced Focus: Audiobooks encourage longer periods of attention and engagement. They can help reacquaint you with sustained listening, which is particularly useful if you’re adapting to new hearing aids.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks are an excellent way for a person to practice understanding spoken words. Unlike spontaneous conversations, you can rewind and play back sections to develop comprehension. This practice helps in refining your ability to grasp spoken words.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Exposure to a diverse range of words through audiobooks can enrich your vocabulary.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding speech entails more than simply hearing the words; it requires comprehension of the content. Audiobooks challenge your brain to associate words with concepts, which can enhance your ability to follow conversations in daily settings.
- Pronunciation Practice: For those with hearing loss, social separation can sometimes lead to rusty communication skills. Communication will be more effective after listening to audiobooks because they help with pronunciation.
Optimizing audiobooks as auditory tools
For optimal results, hearing specialists usually recommend pairing audiobooks with a physical copy of the book. This dual approach strengthens the link 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 a valuable complement to hearing aids.
How to access audiobooks
Nowadays, audiobooks are more accessible than ever. There is a wide variety of audiobooks obtainable on streaming services like Audible and other platforms like Amazon. Also, listening to audiobooks anywhere you find yourself is made possible with the convenience of smartphones.
If you’re having trouble finding a suitable audiobook, podcasts provide a similar auditory experience on a variety of subjects. They can also be a practical way to improve your hearing while keeping your mind engaged.
How to link audiobooks to hearing aids
Many contemporary hearing aids come furnished 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, guaranteeing a seamless and high-quality auditory experience.
Your hearing specialist is the first place to begin
If you’re considering introducing audiobooks into your auditory training regimen, it’s a good plan to consult with your hearing specialist. They can help you develop your auditory skills by giving you personalized advice about how to get the most out of this resource.
Reach out to us today to explore how audiobooks can assist your hearing journey.