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 offer a contemporary, convenient way to enjoy literature, transforming the experience of reading into one of listening.
Audiobooks: a modern approach to reading
An audiobook lets you “read” a book by listening to it. It’s essentially like somebody is narrating the book for you. You can utilize 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 functional purpose: auditory training.
What is auditory training?
You might be wondering, “What exactly is auditory training”? It’s a specialized practice focused on improving your ability to process, perceive, and interpret auditory information. This training becomes especially useful for individuals who use hearing aids. When someone experiences untreated hearing loss, their brain progressively becomes used to a quieter environment.
Consequently, new sounds can initially seem overwhelming when hearing aids are introduced.
Auditory training improves a person’s ability to process sound by helping the brain adjust to new sound inputs. For individuals who have auditory processing difficulties or language learning challenges, auditory training can also be very helpful. Auditory training both clarifies what you’re hearing and helps you have better comprehension.
How do audiobooks help with auditory training?
There are several ways in which audiobooks can help with auditory training:
- Enhanced Focus: When individuals listen to audiobooks, their attention is engaged for longer periods of time. When somebody is trying to adapt to a new pair of hearing aids, becoming reacquainted with sustained listening by using audiobooks can be really helpful.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks supply 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. Your ability to understand spoken words can be fine-tuned by this practice.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Exposure to a diversified assortment of words through audiobooks can enrich your vocabulary.
- 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.
- 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.
Getting the most out of audiobooks as an auditory tool
Hearing specialists often 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 connection between written and spoken words. Audiobooks are an effective complement to hearing aids, improving the auditory training experience.
Where to find audiobooks
Nowadays, audiobooks are more available than ever. There is a wide variety of audiobooks obtainable on streaming services like Audible and other platforms like Amazon. Also, listening to audiobooks anywhere you find yourself is made possible with the advantage of smartphones.
If you’re struggling to find a suitable audiobook, podcasts offer a similar auditory experience on a variety of topics. They can also be a practical way to enhance your hearing while keeping your mind engaged.
How to connect audiobooks to hearing aids
Bluetooth connectivity is a pretty common feature on many models of hearing aids nowadays which allows them to have a wireless link to your phone. 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.
Consult with your hearing specialist
Scheduling a consultation with your hearing specialist is the first step if you’re considering incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training program. They can help you develop your auditory skills by giving you personalized advice about how to get the most from this resource.
Reach out to us today to explore how audiobooks can support your hearing journey.