In the past, we called them “books-on-tape,” a term that seems almost archaic nowadays. Today we have digital streaming services and the term “audiobooks” has become the familiar term. Audiobooks offer a contemporary, convenient way to enjoy literature, turning the experience of reading into one of listening.
Take a modern approach to reading with audiobooks
An audiobook allows you to “read” a book by listening to it. It’s essentially like someone is narrating the book for you. You can utilize this format to acquire new knowledge, become absorbed in captivating stories, and explore new ideas. Audiobooks can also serve as a source of auditory training.
What is auditory training?
You may be wondering, “What exactly is auditory training”? Auditory training is a practice designed to help a person perceive and better comprehend audio information. This training becomes particularly useful for people who use hearing aids. For someone who has neglected hearing loss, living in a quieter environment becomes the norm.
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 those with language learning challenges or auditory processing disorders. Rather than simply sharpening hearing, auditory training helps you make sense of what you hear.
How audiobooks assist auditory training
There are a number of ways that audiobooks can help with auditory training:
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks supply real-time practice in comprehending spoken words. Unlike audiobooks, with live conversation, you don’t have the ability to rewind and replay what was said. Your ability to understand spoken words can be fine-tuned by this practice.
- Pronunciation Practice: For individuals with hearing loss, social isolation can sometimes lead to rusty communication skills. Listening to audiobooks helps with the pronunciation of words, which can enhance overall communication effectiveness.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Exposure to a diverse assortment of words through audiobooks can enrich your vocabulary.
- Enhanced Focus: When individuals listen to audiobooks, their attention is engaged for longer periods of time. When someone is attempting to adapt to a new set of hearing aids, becoming reacquainted with sustained listening by using audiobooks can be really helpful.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding speech entails more than just hearing the words; it requires comprehension of the content. Audiobooks challenge your brain to link words with concepts, which can improve your ability to follow conversations in everyday settings.
Getting the most out of audiobooks as an auditory tool
Hearing specialists often recommend the pairing of an audiobook with a physical copy for maximum results. This dual strategy reinforces the connection between spoken and written language, potentially accelerating the adaptation process for new auditory inputs. Audiobooks are a valuable complement to hearing aids, improving the auditory training experience.
Where to obtain audiobooks
Today, audiobooks are more accessible than ever. There is a wide variety of audiobooks available on streaming services such as Audible and other platforms like Amazon. Also, listening to audiobooks wherever you find yourself is made possible with the advantage of smartphones.
Podcasts also present a similar auditory experience if you can’t decide on a specific audiobook you want to listen to. They are also an ideal 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 eliminates the need for separate headphones, letting you listen to audiobooks directly through your hearing aids, ensuring a seamless and high-quality auditory experience.
Talk to your hearing specialist
Scheduling a consultation with your hearing specialist is the first step if you’re considering introducing audiobooks into your auditory training program. They can help you develop your auditory skills by giving you personalized advice about how to get the most from this resource.
Reach out to us today to explore how audiobooks can assist your hearing journey.