In the past, we referred to them as “books-on-tape,” a term that seems almost archaic nowadays. With the introduction 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 having to sit down and actually read.
Audiobooks: a modern approach to reading
With audiobooks, you won’t need to actually read a book, you can just listen to it. It’s basically like someone is narrating the book for you. You can use this format to gain new knowledge, become absorbed in captivating stories, and explore new ideas. Beyond being a pleasurable pastime, audiobooks can also serve a more practical purpose: 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 decipher auditory information. For people adapting to using hearing aids, this type of training can be especially helpful. For someone who is coping with neglected hearing loss, living in a quieter environment becomes the norm.
When new sounds are first introduced, they can seem overpowering as a result.
Auditory training helps the brain adjust to these new auditory inputs, enhancing sound processing capabilities. It’s also beneficial for people with language learning difficulties or auditory processing disorders. Auditory training both sharpens what you’re hearing and helps you have better comprehension.
How do audiobooks help with auditory training?
There are a number of ways that audiobooks can help with auditory training:
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding speech entails more than simply hearing the words; it requires comprehension of the content. Audiobooks challenge your brain to associate words with concepts, which can improve your ability to follow conversations in everyday settings.
- 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 fine-tuning your ability to understand spoken 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 adjusting to new hearing aids.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Audiobooks can broaden your vocabulary by exposing you to a diversified range of words.
- Pronunciation Practice: For those with hearing loss, social separation can sometimes result in rusty communication skills. Listening to audiobooks helps with the pronunciation of words, which can enhance overall communication effectiveness.
Getting the most out of audiobooks as an auditory tool
Hearing specialists frequently recommend the pairing of an audiobook with a physical copy for maximum results. For new audio inputs, the adjustment process may be accelerated by this relationship between written and spoken words. Audiobooks are a valuable complement to hearing aids, enhancing the auditory training experience.
Where to find audiobooks
It’s easier than it ever has been to access audiobooks. Subscriptions to services like Audible and purchases from platforms like Amazon make it easy to access a wide range of titles. Furthermore, with the convenience of cell phones, you can listen to audiobooks wherever you are, whether you’re at home or on the go.
If you’re struggling to find a suitable audiobook, podcasts offer a similar auditory experience on a variety of subjects. They can also be a practical way to enhance your hearing while keeping your mind engaged.
How to link audiobooks to hearing aids
Many modern hearing aids come equipped with Bluetooth technology, letting them 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
If you’re considering introducing audiobooks into your auditory training program, 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.
Call us today and let us help you be more successful with your auditory training.