In the past, we called them “books-on-tape,” a term that feels almost archaic nowadays. With the introduction of CDs and, more recently, digital streaming, the term “audiobook” has become the norm, and rightly so. Audiobooks offer a modern, convenient way to enjoy literature, turning the experience of reading into one of listening.
Take a contemporary approach to reading with audiobooks
With audiobooks, you won’t need to actually read a book, you can just listen to it. It’s essentially like someone is narrating the book for you. You can use this format to gain new knowledge, become immersed in enchanting stories, and explore new concepts. Audiobooks can also function as a source of auditory training.
Auditory training – exactly what is it?
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 type of training can be particularly helpful. When someone experiences untreated hearing loss, their brain progressively becomes used to a quieter environment.
Consequently, new sounds can at first seem overwhelming when hearing aids are introduced.
Auditory training improves a person’s ability to process sound by helping the brain adapt to new sound inputs. For people who have auditory processing problems or language learning challenges, auditory training can also be very helpful. Rather than simply sharpening hearing, auditory training helps you make sense of what you hear.
How do audiobooks help with auditory training?
There are several ways in which audiobooks can help with auditory training:
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks are a great way for a person to practice understanding spoken language. Unlike audiobooks, with live conversation, you don’t have the ability to rewind and replay what was said. Your ability to comprehend spoken words can be fine-tuned by this practice.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Exposure to a diverse range of words through audiobooks can improve your vocabulary.
- Pronunciation Practice: For people with hearing loss, social isolation can sometimes lead to rusty communication skills. Communication will be more effective after listening to audiobooks because they help with pronunciation.
- Enhanced Focus: When people listen to audiobooks, their attention is engaged for longer periods of time. When someone is attempting to adapt to a new set of hearing aids, becoming reacquainted with sustained listening by using audiobooks can be very helpful.
- 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 everyday settings.
Making the most of audiobooks as an auditory tool
Hearing specialists often suggest the pairing of an audiobook with a physical copy for best results. This dual strategy strengthens the connection between spoken and written language, potentially speeding up the adaptation process for new auditory inputs. Audiobooks are a valuable complement to hearing aids, improving the auditory training experience.
Where to find audiobooks
It’s easier than ever before to gain access to audiobooks. There is a wide variety 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 provide a similar auditory experience on a wide range of topics. They are also an ideal way to engage your mind while improving your hearing.
How to link audiobooks to hearing aids
Many contemporary 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.
Talk to your hearing specialist
Scheduling a consultation with your hearing specialist is the first step if you’re thinking about introducing audiobooks into your auditory training program. They can help you develop your auditory skills by giving you individualized advice about how to get the most out of this resource.
Call us today and let us help you be more successful with your auditory training.