In the past, we called them “books-on-tape,” a term that feels almost archaic today. Today 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.
Audiobooks: a modern approach to reading
An audiobook lets you “read” a book by listening to it. Essentially, it’s comparable to having somebody narrate the book to you. This format provides an immersive way to investigate new concepts, get lost in exciting stories, or gain new knowledge. Audiobooks can also function as a source of auditory training.
What is auditory training?
You may be wondering, “What exactly is auditory training”? It’s a specialized practice focused on enhancing your ability to process, perceive, and interpret auditory information. This training becomes particularly useful for individuals who use hearing aids. When someone experiences untreated hearing loss, their brain progressively becomes accustomed to a quieter environment.
Consequently, new sounds can initially seem overwhelming 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 challenges or auditory processing disorders. Auditory training both clarifies 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:
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding spoken words involves content comprehension not just hearing words. Audiobooks can help increase your ability to follow day-to-day conversations by forcing your brain to associate words with concepts.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Exposure to a diverse range of words through audiobooks can enrich your vocabulary.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks are a great way for an individual to practice comprehending spoken words. Unlike audiobooks, with daily conversation, you don’t have the ability to rewind and re-listen to what was said. Your ability to comprehend spoken words can be refined by this practice.
- Pronunciation Practice: For those with hearing loss, social separation can sometimes result in rusty communication skills. Listening to audiobooks helps with the pronunciation of words, which can enhance overall communication effectiveness.
- Enhanced Focus: When people listen to audiobooks, their attention is engaged for longer periods of time. When somebody is trying to adjust to a new set of hearing aids, becoming reacquainted with sustained listening by using audiobooks can be really helpful.
Getting the most out of audiobooks as an auditory tool
For optimal results, hearing specialists often recommend pairing audiobooks with a physical copy of the book. This dual strategy strengthens the link between spoken and written language, potentially accelerating the adaptation process for new auditory inputs. Audiobooks are a valuable complement to hearing aids, enhancing the auditory training experience.
Where to find audiobooks
Nowadays, audiobooks are more available than ever. Subscriptions to services such as Audible and purchases from platforms like Amazon make it easy to access a wide assortment of titles. Also, listening to audiobooks anywhere you find yourself is made possible with the convenience of smartphones.
Podcasts also present a similar auditory experience if you can’t decide on a particular audiobook you want to listen to. They are also a great way to engage your mind while improving your hearing.
How to link audiobooks to hearing aids
Bluetooth connectivity is a fairly common feature on many types of hearing aids these days 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.
Consult with your hearing specialist
If you’re thinking about incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training regimen, it’s a good plan to talk to your hearing specialist. They can provide personalized advice and help you make the most of this resource to improve your auditory skills.
Give us a call today and let us help you be more successful with your auditory training.