Remember way back when we used to refer to audiobooks as “books on tape”? With the introduction of CDs and, more recently, digital streaming, the term “audiobook” has become the standard, and rightly so. Audiobooks offer a contemporary, convenient way to enjoy literature, transforming the experience of reading into one of listening.
Take a contemporary approach to reading with audiobooks
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 practical purpose: auditory training.
What is auditory training?
You may be wondering, “What exactly is auditory training”? It’s a specialized practice aimed at enhancing your ability to process, perceive, and interpret auditory information. For people adapting to using hearing aids, this kind of training can be particularly helpful. For someone who has 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 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 really helpful. Rather than simply sharpening hearing, auditory training helps you comprehend what you hear.
How audiobooks assist auditory training
There are several ways in which audiobooks can help with auditory training:
- Vocabulary Expansion: Exposure to a diverse assortment of words through audiobooks can enrich your vocabulary.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks are a great 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 refining your ability to comprehend spoken words.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding speech requires more than just hearing the words; it requires comprehension of the content. Audiobooks challenge your brain to link words with concepts, which can enhance your ability to follow conversations in daily settings.
- Pronunciation Practice: Communication skills can often become rusty after a period of social separation. Communication will be more successful after listening to audiobooks because they help with pronunciation.
- Enhanced Focus: Audiobooks encourage longer periods of attention and engagement. They can help reacquaint you with sustained listening, which is especially useful if you’re adjusting to new hearing aids.
Making the most of audiobooks as an auditory tool
Hearing specialists frequently recommend the pairing of an audiobook with a physical copy for best results. This dual approach strengthens the link between spoken and written language, potentially accelerating the adaptation process for new auditory inputs. The auditory training experience will be enhanced by using audiobooks, making them an ideal complement to hearing aids.
Where to obtain audiobooks
Nowadays, audiobooks are more accessible than ever. There is a wide array of audiobooks obtainable on streaming services such as Audible and other platforms like Amazon. Also, listening to audiobooks wherever 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 wide range of topics. They are also an ideal way to engage your mind while enhancing your hearing.
Linking your hearing aids to audiobooks
Bluetooth connectivity is a fairly common feature on many models of hearing aids these days which allows them to have a wireless link to your phone. This feature gets rid of the need for separate headphones, allowing you to listen to audiobooks directly through your hearing aids, ensuring a seamless and high-quality auditory experience.
Your hearing specialist is the first place to begin
If you’re considering introducing audiobooks into your auditory training regimen, it’s a good plan to consult with your hearing specialist. They can help you improve your auditory skills by giving you individualized advice about how to get the most from this resource.
Contact us today to explore how audiobooks can support your hearing journey.