In the past, we referred to them as “books-on-tape,” a term that seems almost archaic today. With the introduction of CDs and, more recently, digital streaming, the term “audiobook” has become the norm, and rightly so. Audiobooks allow you to enjoy literature while on the go without having to sit down and actually read.
Audiobooks: a contemporary approach to reading
With audiobooks, you won’t need to actually read a book, you can simply listen to it. It’s essentially like somebody is narrating the book for you. You can utilize this format to gain new knowledge, become immersed in enchanting stories, and explore new concepts. Audiobooks can also function as a source of auditory training.
Auditory training – exactly what is it?
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 relevant for individuals who use hearing aids. When somebody experiences untreated hearing loss, their brain progressively becomes accustomed to a quieter environment.
As a result, new sounds can at first seem overpowering when hearing aids are introduced.
Auditory training improves a person’s ability to process sound by helping the brain adjust to new sound inputs. It’s also beneficial for those with language learning difficulties or auditory processing disorders. Auditory training both sharpens what you’re hearing and helps you have better comprehension.
How audiobooks assist auditory training
Engaging with audiobooks can substantially help with auditory training through various mechanisms:
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks provide real-time practice in 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 understand 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 adapting to new hearing aids.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Audiobooks can broaden your vocabulary by exposing you to a diversified range of words.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding speech requires 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 daily settings.
- Pronunciation Practice: Communication skills can frequently become rusty after a period of social separation. Communication will be more effective after listening to audiobooks because they help with pronunciation.
Optimizing audiobooks as auditory tools
Hearing specialists frequently suggest the pairing of an audiobook with a physical copy for maximum results. 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
It’s easier than ever before to access audiobooks. Subscriptions to services like Audible and purchases from websites like Amazon make it easy to access a wide range of titles. Also, listening to audiobooks anywhere you find yourself is made possible with the convenience of smartphones.
Podcasts also provide a similar auditory experience if you can’t decide on a specific audiobook you want to listen to. They can also be a practical way to improve your hearing while keeping your mind involved.
How to connect audiobooks to hearing aids
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 eliminates the need for separate headphones, allowing you to listen to audiobooks directly through your hearing aids, guaranteeing a seamless and high-quality auditory experience.
Consult with 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 individualized advice about how to get the most from this resource.
Give us a call today and let us help you be more successful with your auditory training.