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 having to sit down and actually read.
Audiobooks: a contemporary 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 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”? Auditory training is a practice tailored to helping an individual perceive and better understand audio information. This training becomes particularly relevant for people using hearing aids. When somebody experiences untreated hearing loss, their brain progressively becomes accustomed to a quieter environment.
When new sounds are initially introduced, they can seem overpowering as a result.
Auditory training helps the brain adapt to these new auditory inputs, enhancing sound processing capabilities. It’s also useful for individuals 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 in which audiobooks can help with auditory training:
- 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.
- Enhanced Focus: Audiobooks encourage longer periods of attention and involvement. When somebody is trying to adjust to a new set of hearing aids, becoming reacquainted with sustained listening by using audiobooks can be really helpful.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks are a great way for a person to practice understanding spoken language. Unlike audiobooks, with daily conversation, you don’t have the ability to rewind and re-listen to what was said. Your ability to comprehend spoken words can be refined by this practice.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding speech involves more than simply hearing the words; it requires comprehension of the content. Audiobooks challenge your brain to associate words with concepts, which can enhance your ability to follow conversations in daily settings.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Exposure to a diversified assortment of words through audiobooks can improve your vocabulary.
Maximizing audiobooks as auditory tools
Hearing specialists frequently recommend the pairing of an audiobook with a physical copy for best results. This dual approach reinforces the link between spoken and written language, potentially speeding up 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 it ever has been to access audiobooks. There is a wide variety of audiobooks available on streaming services such as Audible and other platforms like Amazon. Also, listening to audiobooks wherever you find yourself is made possible with the convenience of smartphones.
If you’re having trouble finding a suitable audiobook, podcasts provide a similar auditory experience on an assortment of topics. They are also a great way to engage your mind while improving your hearing.
Linking your hearing aids to audiobooks
Many modern hearing aids come furnished 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.
Consult with your hearing specialist
If you’re considering incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training program, it’s a good plan to consult with your hearing specialist. They can help you improve your auditory skills by giving you personalized advice about how to get the most out of this resource.
Give us a call today and let us help you be more successful with your auditory training.