In the past, we referred to them as “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.
Take a modern approach to reading with audiobooks
With audiobooks, you won’t need to actually read a book, you can simply listen to it. Essentially, it’s akin to having someone narrate the book to you. This format provides an immersive way to investigate new ideas, get lost in exciting stories, or gain new knowledge. Audiobooks can also function as a source of auditory training.
What is auditory training?
So what exactly is “auditory training”? It’s a specialized practice aimed at improving your ability to process, perceive, and decipher auditory information. This training becomes especially useful for individuals who use hearing aids. For somebody who is coping with neglected hearing loss, living in a quieter environment becomes the norm.
Consequently, new sounds can at first seem overpowering when hearing aids are introduced.
Auditory training helps the brain adjust to these new auditory inputs, enhancing sound processing capabilities. It’s also advantageous for individuals with language learning challenges or auditory processing disorders. Rather than simply sharpening hearing, auditory training helps you comprehend what you hear.
How audiobooks facilitate auditory training
Listening to audiobooks can substantially aid in auditory training through a variety of mechanisms:
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding spoken words involves content comprehension not simply hearing words. Audiobooks can help enhance your ability to follow day-to-day conversations by forcing your brain to link words with concepts.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks are a great way for a person to practice comprehending spoken language. Unlike audiobooks, with live conversation, you don’t have the ability to rewind and re-listen to what was said. This practice helps in fine-tuning your ability to understand spoken words.
- Pronunciation Practice: Communication skills can often become rusty after a period of social isolation. Listening to audiobooks helps with the pronunciation of words, which can improve overall communication effectiveness.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Audiobooks can expand your vocabulary by exposing you to a diversified range of words.
- 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.
Maximizing audiobooks as auditory tools
Hearing specialists frequently recommend the pairing of an audiobook with a physical copy for best results. For new audio inputs, the adjustment process may 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 find audiobooks
It’s easier than it ever has been to gain access to audiobooks. There is a wide variety of audiobooks obtainable on streaming services like Audible and other platforms like Amazon. Furthermore, with the convenience of cell phones, you can listen to audiobooks wherever you are, whether you’re at home or out and about.
Podcasts also provide a similar auditory experience if you can’t decide on a particular audiobook you want to listen to. They can also be a great way to improve your hearing while keeping your mind involved.
How to link audiobooks to hearing aids
Bluetooth connectivity is a fairly common feature on many models of hearing aids nowadays which allows them to have a wireless connection to your phone. This feature ensures a high-quality, seamless auditory experience by allowing you to stream audiobooks straight to your hearing aids.
Your hearing specialist is the first place to start
If you’re thinking about incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training regimen, it’s a good idea to talk to your hearing specialist. They can offer individualized advice and help you make the most of this resource to enhance your auditory skills.
Reach out to us today to explore how audiobooks can support your hearing journey.