In the past, we referred to them as “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 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 don’t need to actually read a book, you can simply listen to it. Essentially, it’s comparable to having someone narrate the book to you. You can use this format to gain new knowledge, become immersed in enchanting stories, and explore new concepts. Beyond being a pleasurable pastime, audiobooks can also serve a more functional purpose: auditory training.
What is auditory training?
You may be wondering, “What exactly is auditory training”? It’s a specialized practice aimed at enhancing your ability to process, perceive, and interpret auditory information. For people adapting to wearing hearing aids, this type of training can be particularly helpful. For someone who is coping with neglected hearing loss, living in a quieter environment becomes the norm.
Consequently, new sounds can at first seem overwhelming when hearing aids are introduced.
Auditory training helps the brain adapt to these new auditory inputs, enhancing sound processing capabilities. It’s also advantageous for people with language learning difficulties or auditory processing conditions. Auditory training both clarifies what you’re hearing and helps you have better comprehension.
How do audiobooks help with auditory training?
Engaging with audiobooks can significantly help with auditory training through a variety of mechanisms:
- Enhanced Focus: When individuals listen to audiobooks, their attention is engaged for longer time periods. When somebody is attempting to adjust to a new pair of hearing aids, becoming reacquainted with sustained listening by using audiobooks can be very helpful.
- Pronunciation Practice: Communication skills can frequently become rusty after a period of social isolation. Communication will be more effective after listening to audiobooks because they help with pronunciation.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding speech entails more than just hearing the words; it requires comprehension of the content. Audiobooks challenge your brain to associate words with concepts, which can improve your ability to follow conversations in everyday settings.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Audiobooks can broaden your vocabulary by exposing you to a diversified range of words.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks are an excellent way for an individual to practice comprehending spoken words. Unlike spontaneous conversations, you can rewind and play back sections to improve comprehension. This practice helps in fine-tuning your ability to comprehend spoken words.
Making the most of audiobooks as an auditory tool
Hearing specialists frequently recommend the pairing of an audiobook with a physical copy for maximum results. For new audio inputs, the adjustment process could be accelerated by this connection between written and spoken words. The auditory training process will be enhanced by using audiobooks, making them a valuable complement to hearing aids.
Where to obtain audiobooks
It’s easier than ever before to access audiobooks. There is a wide array of audiobooks obtainable on streaming services such as Audible and other platforms like Amazon. Moreover, with the convenience of smartphones, you can listen to audiobooks anywhere, whether you’re at home or out and about.
Podcasts also present a similar auditory experience if you can’t decide on a particular audiobook you want to listen to. They can also be a practical way to improve your hearing while keeping your mind engaged.
Connecting your hearing aids to audiobooks
Many contemporary hearing aids come equipped with Bluetooth technology, letting them pair directly with your phone or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. This feature gets rid of the need for separate headphones, allowing you to listen to audiobooks directly through your hearing aids, ensuring a seamless and high-quality auditory experience.
Talk to your hearing specialist
If you’re thinking about incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training program, it’s a good plan to consult with your hearing specialist. They can help you improve your auditory skills by giving you personalized advice about how to get the most out of this resource.
Contact us today to explore how audiobooks can support your hearing journey.