Remember way back when we used to call audiobooks “books on tape”? With the advent 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
An audiobook allows you to “read” a book by listening to it. It’s essentially like somebody is narrating the book for you. You can use this format to gain new knowledge, become absorbed in captivating stories, and explore new concepts. 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 enhancing your ability to process, perceive, and interpret auditory information. For individuals adapting to wearing hearing aids, this kind of training can be particularly helpful. When someone experiences untreated hearing loss, their brain progressively becomes used to a quieter environment.
When new sounds are initially introduced, they can seem overpowering as a result.
Auditory training helps the brain adjust to these new auditory inputs, improving sound processing capabilities. It’s also beneficial for individuals with language learning difficulties or auditory processing disorders. Rather than simply clarifying hearing, auditory training helps you comprehend what you hear.
How audiobooks assist auditory training
There are a number of ways in which audiobooks can help with auditory training:
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding speech entails more than simply hearing the words; it requires comprehension of the content. Audiobooks can help increase your ability to follow everyday conversations by forcing your brain to link words with concepts.
- Enhanced Focus: Audiobooks encourage longer periods of attention and involvement. They can help reacquaint you with sustained listening, which is especially useful if you’re adjusting to new hearing aids.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Exposure to a diversified assortment of words through audiobooks can enrich your vocabulary.
- Pronunciation Practice: For individuals with hearing loss, social separation can sometimes lead to rusty communication skills. Communication will be more effective after listening to audiobooks because they help with pronunciation.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks supply real-time practice in understanding spoken language. Unlike spontaneous conversations, you can rewind and replay sections to develop comprehension. Your ability to understand spoken words can be refined by this practice.
Making the most of audiobooks as an auditory tool
For maximum results, hearing specialists often suggest pairing audiobooks with a physical copy of the book. 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 enhanced by using audiobooks, making them a valuable complement to hearing aids.
Where to find audiobooks
It’s easier than ever before to gain access to audiobooks. Subscriptions to services such as Audible and purchases from platforms like Amazon make it easy to access a wide assortment of titles. 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 having trouble finding a suitable audiobook, podcasts offer a similar auditory experience on an assortment of topics. They can also be a great way to improve your hearing while keeping your mind involved.
How to link audiobooks to hearing aids
Many modern 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.
Talk to your hearing specialist
Scheduling a consultation with your hearing specialist is the first step if you’re thinking about introducing audiobooks into your auditory training program. They can provide individualized advice and help you make the most of this resource to enhance your auditory skills.
Give us a call today and let us help you be more successful with your auditory training.