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 standard, and rightly so. Audiobooks allow you to enjoy literature while on the go without needing 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. This format offers an immersive way to explore new ideas, get lost in exciting stories, or acquire new knowledge. Audiobooks can also function as a source of auditory training.
Auditory training – exactly what is it?
So what exactly is “auditory training”? It’s a specialized practice focused on improving your ability to process, perceive, and decipher auditory information. For people 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 first introduced, they can seem overpowering as a result.
Auditory training increases a person’s ability to process sound by helping the brain adjust to new sound inputs. It’s also useful for individuals who have language learning difficulties or auditory processing disorders. Rather than simply clarifying hearing, auditory training helps you comprehend what you hear.
How do audiobooks assist with auditory training?
There are a number of ways that audiobooks can help with auditory training:
- Pronunciation Practice: For individuals with hearing loss, social isolation can sometimes lead to rusty communication skills. Listening to audiobooks helps with the pronunciation of words, which can improve general communication effectiveness.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks are an excellent way for an individual to practice comprehending spoken language. Unlike audiobooks, with daily conversation, you don’t have the ability to rewind and replay what was said. This practice helps in refining your ability to comprehend spoken words.
- Enhanced Focus: Audiobooks encourage longer periods of attention and engagement. They can help reacquaint you with sustained listening, which is especially useful if you’re adapting to new hearing aids.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding spoken words requires content comprehension not just hearing words. Audiobooks challenge your brain to link words with concepts, which can improve your ability to follow conversations in daily settings.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Audiobooks can expand your vocabulary by exposing you to a diverse range of words.
Getting the most out of audiobooks as an auditory tool
For maximum results, hearing specialists usually recommend pairing audiobooks with a physical copy of the book. This dual approach reinforces the link between spoken and written language, potentially accelerating the adaptation process for new auditory inputs. The auditory training experience will be improved by using audiobooks, making them a valuable complement to hearing aids.
Where to obtain audiobooks
It’s easier than it ever has been to gain access to audiobooks. There is a wide array of audiobooks obtainable on streaming services like Audible and other platforms like Amazon. Additionally, 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 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 enhance your hearing while keeping your mind engaged.
How to connect 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 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.
Your hearing specialist is the first place to start
If you’re considering incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training program, it’s a good plan to consult with your hearing specialist. They can provide personalized advice and help you make the most of this resource to improve your auditory skills.
Contact us today to explore how audiobooks can assist your hearing journey.