In the past, we called them “books-on-tape,” a term that seems almost archaic today. Nowadays 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.
Audiobooks: a modern approach to reading
An audiobook lets you “read” a book by listening to it. Fundamentally, it’s comparable to having somebody narrate the book to you. This format provides an immersive way to investigate new concepts, get lost in captivating stories, or gain new knowledge. Audiobooks can also function as a source of auditory training.
What is auditory training?
You might 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 especially useful for individuals using hearing aids. For somebody 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 helps the brain adapt to these new auditory inputs, improving sound processing capabilities. It’s also useful for people who have language learning challenges or auditory processing disorders. Auditory training both clarifies what you’re hearing and helps you have better comprehension.
How do audiobooks help with auditory training?
There are a number of ways that audiobooks can help with auditory training:
- Pronunciation Practice: For those with hearing loss, social isolation can sometimes result in rusty communication skills. Communication will be more successful after listening to audiobooks because they help with pronunciation.
- 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.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks are an excellent way for a person to practice understanding spoken language. Unlike spontaneous conversations, you can rewind and replay sections to improve comprehension. Your ability to understand spoken words can be fine-tuned by this practice.
- Enhanced Focus: When people listen to audiobooks, their attention is engaged for longer periods of time. They can help reacquaint you with sustained listening, which is especially useful if you’re adapting to new hearing aids.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Audiobooks can expand your vocabulary by exposing you to a diverse range of words.
Getting the most out of audiobooks as an auditory tool
Hearing specialists frequently suggest 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. The auditory training experience will be enhanced by using audiobooks, making them an ideal complement to hearing aids.
How to access audiobooks
It’s easier than ever before to access audiobooks. There is a wide variety of audiobooks obtainable on streaming services like Audible and other platforms like Amazon. Additionally, with the convenience of cell phones, you can listen to audiobooks anywhere, whether you’re at home or out and about.
If you’re struggling to find a suitable audiobook, podcasts provide a similar auditory experience on a wide range of subjects. They can also be a practical way to improve your hearing while keeping your mind engaged.
Linking your hearing aids to audiobooks
Bluetooth connectivity is a pretty common feature on many types 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 straight to your hearing aids.
Talk to your hearing specialist
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 improve your auditory skills by giving you individualized advice about how to get the most out of this resource.
Give us a call today and let us help you be more successful with your auditory training.