In the past, we called them “books-on-tape,” a term that feels 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.
Audiobooks: a modern approach to reading
With audiobooks, you don’t need to actually read a book, you can just listen to it. Essentially, it’s comparable to having somebody narrate the book to you. You can use this format to acquire new knowledge, become immersed in enchanting stories, and explore new ideas. Beyond being a pleasurable pastime, audiobooks can also serve a more practical purpose: auditory training.
Auditory training – exactly what is it?
You may be wondering, “What exactly is auditory training”? It’s a specialized practice focused on improving your ability to process, perceive, and decipher auditory information. This training becomes particularly relevant for people who use hearing aids. For someone who is coping with neglected hearing loss, living in a quieter environment becomes the norm.
Consequently, 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 beneficial for people who have language learning challenges or auditory processing disorders. Auditory training both sharpens what you’re hearing and helps you have better comprehension.
How audiobooks assist auditory training
There are several ways that audiobooks can help with auditory training:
- Vocabulary Expansion: Exposure to a diversified 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 connect words with concepts, which can enhance your ability to follow conversations in everyday settings.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks are an excellent way for an individual to practice understanding spoken words. Unlike spontaneous conversations, you can rewind and replay sections to improve comprehension. Your ability to comprehend spoken words can be fine-tuned by this practice.
- 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 adjusting to new hearing aids.
- 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 enhance general communication effectiveness.
Getting the most out 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 adaptation process may be accelerated by this relationship between written and spoken words. The auditory training process will be improved by using audiobooks, making them a valuable complement to hearing aids.
How to access audiobooks
It’s easier than ever before to gain access to audiobooks. There is a wide variety of audiobooks available on streaming services like Audible and other platforms like Amazon. Also, listening to audiobooks anywhere you find yourself is made possible with the advantage of smartphones.
If you’re having trouble finding a suitable audiobook, podcasts offer a similar auditory experience on a variety of subjects. They are also an ideal way to engage your mind while improving your hearing.
Linking your hearing aids to audiobooks
Bluetooth connectivity is a pretty common feature on many models 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 directly to your hearing aids.
Your hearing specialist is the first place to begin
Scheduling a consultation with your hearing specialist is the first step if you’re considering introducing 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.
Give us a call today and let us help you be more successful with your auditory training.
