Remember way back when we used to call audiobooks “books on tape”? Today we have digital streaming services and the term “audiobooks” has become the common term. Audiobooks offer a contemporary, convenient way to enjoy literature, turning the experience of reading into one of listening.
Audiobooks: a contemporary approach to reading
With audiobooks, you won’t need to actually read a book, you can just listen to it. Essentially, it’s comparable to having somebody narrate the book to you. You can utilize 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 practical purpose: auditory training.
What is auditory training?
So what exactly is “auditory training”? It’s a specialized practice focused on enhancing your ability to process, perceive, and decipher auditory information. For people adapting to wearing hearing aids, this type of training can be particularly helpful. When somebody 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 increases a person’s ability to process sound by helping the brain adapt to new sound inputs. For people who have auditory processing difficulties or language learning difficulties, auditory training can also be very helpful. Auditory training both clarifies what you’re hearing and helps you have better comprehension.
How do audiobooks assist with auditory training?
There are a number of ways that audiobooks can help with auditory training:
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks supply real-time practice in 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 comprehend spoken words.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Audiobooks can broaden your vocabulary by exposing you to a diverse range of words.
- Pronunciation Practice: Communication skills can frequently become rusty after a period of social separation. Listening to audiobooks helps with the pronunciation of words, which can enhance overall communication effectiveness.
- 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 speech entails more than just hearing the words; it requires comprehension of the content. Audiobooks can help increase your ability to follow everyday conversations by forcing your brain to associate words with concepts.
Optimizing audiobooks as auditory tools
Hearing specialists often suggest the pairing of an audiobook with a physical copy for maximum results. This dual approach reinforces the link between spoken and written language, potentially accelerating the adaptation process for new auditory inputs. Audiobooks are an effective complement to hearing aids, enhancing the auditory training process.
Where to find 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. Furthermore, with the convenience of smartphones, you can listen to audiobooks anywhere, whether you’re at home or on the go.
Podcasts also provide 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 improving your hearing.
Connecting your hearing aids to audiobooks
Many modern hearing aids come equipped with Bluetooth technology, letting them pair directly with your phone or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. This feature eliminates the need for separate headphones, letting you 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 thinking about incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training regimen, it’s a good idea to consult with your hearing specialist. They can help you develop your auditory skills by giving you individualized advice about how to get the most out of this resource.
Contact us today to explore how audiobooks can assist your hearing journey.