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 common term. Audiobooks offer a modern, convenient way to enjoy literature, transforming the experience of reading into one of listening.
Audiobooks: a modern approach to reading
With audiobooks, you won’t need to actually read a book, you can just listen to it. It’s essentially like someone is narrating the book for you. You can utilize this format to gain 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”? It’s a specialized practice aimed at enhancing your ability to process, perceive, and decipher auditory information. For people adapting to wearing hearing aids, this kind of training can be especially helpful. For somebody who is coping with neglected hearing loss, living in a quieter environment becomes the norm.
Consequently, new sounds can initially seem overpowering when hearing aids are introduced.
Auditory training helps the brain adjust to these new auditory inputs, improving sound processing capabilities. It’s also advantageous for individuals who have language learning difficulties or auditory processing conditions. Rather than simply clarifying hearing, auditory training helps you make sense of what you hear.
How audiobooks assist auditory training
There are several ways that audiobooks can help with auditory training:
- Enhanced Focus: When people listen to audiobooks, their attention is engaged for longer time periods. When someone is trying to adjust to a new set of hearing aids, becoming reacquainted with sustained listening by using audiobooks can be really helpful.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding spoken words requires content comprehension not just hearing words. Audiobooks can help increase your ability to follow everyday conversations by forcing your brain to link words with concepts.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks supply real-time practice in comprehending spoken words. Unlike spontaneous conversations, you can rewind and play back sections to develop comprehension. Your ability to comprehend spoken words can be fine-tuned by this practice.
- Pronunciation Practice: Communication skills can frequently become rusty after a period of social isolation. Communication will be more successful after listening to audiobooks because they help with pronunciation.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Audiobooks can expand your vocabulary by exposing you to a diversified range of words.
Making the most of audiobooks as an auditory tool
For optimal results, hearing specialists usually recommend pairing audiobooks with a physical copy of the book. For new audio inputs, the adjustment process may be accelerated by this connection between written and spoken words. Audiobooks are an effective complement to hearing aids, improving the auditory training experience.
How to access audiobooks
It’s easier than it ever has been to access audiobooks. Subscriptions to services such as Audible and purchases from websites like Amazon make it easy to access a wide array 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 an ideal way to engage your mind while enhancing your hearing.
How to connect audiobooks to hearing aids
Many contemporary hearing aids come furnished with Bluetooth technology, allowing them to pair directly with your phone or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. This feature ensures a high-quality, seamless auditory experience by allowing you to stream audiobooks directly to your hearing aids.
Your hearing specialist is the first place to start
If you’re considering incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training program, it’s a good idea to consult with your hearing specialist. They can offer personalized advice and help you make the most of this resource to enhance your auditory skills.
Call us today and let us help you be more successful with your auditory training.