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 familiar term. Audiobooks allow you to enjoy literature while on the go without needing to sit down and actually read.
Audiobooks: a modern approach to reading
An audiobook lets you “read” a book by listening to it. Essentially, it’s comparable to having someone narrate the book to you. You can utilize this format to gain new knowledge, become immersed in captivating stories, and explore new concepts. Beyond being an enjoyable pastime, audiobooks can also serve a more practical purpose: auditory training.
Auditory training – exactly what is it?
So what exactly is “auditory training”? Auditory training is a practice designed to help a person perceive and better comprehend audio information. For individuals adapting to wearing hearing aids, this kind of training can be particularly helpful. For somebody who is coping with neglected hearing loss, living in a quieter environment becomes the norm.
As a result, new sounds can initially seem overwhelming when hearing aids are introduced.
Auditory training increases a person’s ability to process sound by helping the brain adapt to new sound inputs. It’s also advantageous for those who have language learning challenges or auditory processing conditions. Rather than simply sharpening 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:
- Vocabulary Expansion: Audiobooks can expand your vocabulary by exposing you to a diversified range of words.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks provide real-time practice in comprehending spoken words. Unlike audiobooks, with daily conversation, you don’t have the ability to rewind and re-listen to what was said. This practice helps in refining your ability to comprehend spoken words.
- Enhanced Focus: When individuals listen to audiobooks, their attention is engaged for longer time periods. They can help reacquaint you with sustained listening, which is especially useful if you’re adjusting to new hearing aids.
- Pronunciation Practice: Communication skills can frequently become rusty after a period of social separation. Communication will be more effective after listening to audiobooks because they help with pronunciation.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding speech involves more than simply hearing the words; it requires comprehension of the content. Audiobooks challenge your brain to connect words with concepts, which can improve your ability to follow conversations in daily settings.
Getting the most out of audiobooks as an auditory tool
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 experience will be improved by using audiobooks, making them a valuable complement to hearing aids.
How to access audiobooks
Nowadays, audiobooks are more available than ever. There is a wide variety of audiobooks obtainable on streaming services such as Audible and other platforms like Amazon. Additionally, with the convenience of smartphones, 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 a wide range of topics. They can also be a practical way to enhance your hearing while keeping your mind involved.
Connecting your hearing aids to audiobooks
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 straight 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 incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training routine. They can offer personalized 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.