In the past, we called them “books-on-tape,” a term that feels almost archaic today. 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.
Take a modern approach to reading with audiobooks
With audiobooks, you don’t need to actually read a book, you can simply listen 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 concepts. Beyond being a pleasurable pastime, audiobooks can also serve a more practical purpose: auditory training.
Auditory training – exactly what is it?
You might be wondering, “What exactly is auditory training”? Auditory training is a practice tailored to helping a person perceive and better comprehend audio information. For people adapting to wearing hearing aids, this kind of training can be particularly helpful. When somebody experiences untreated hearing loss, their brain progressively becomes accustomed to a quieter environment.
When new sounds are first introduced, they can seem overpowering as a result.
Auditory training helps the brain adapt to these new auditory inputs, enhancing sound processing capabilities. For people who have auditory processing problems 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 facilitate auditory training
Listening to audiobooks can significantly help with auditory training through a variety of mechanisms:
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding spoken words requires content comprehension not just hearing words. Audiobooks challenge your brain to link words with concepts, which can enhance your ability to follow conversations in daily settings.
- Pronunciation Practice: For those with hearing loss, social separation can sometimes lead to rusty communication skills. Listening to audiobooks helps with the pronunciation of words, which can enhance general communication effectiveness.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks supply real-time practice in understanding spoken language. Unlike spontaneous conversations, you can rewind and replay sections to improve comprehension. This practice helps in fine-tuning your ability to comprehend spoken words.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Exposure to a diverse assortment of words through audiobooks can improve your vocabulary.
- 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 really helpful.
Getting the most out of audiobooks as an auditory tool
Hearing specialists often 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 accelerating the adaptation process for new auditory inputs. Audiobooks are a valuable complement to hearing aids, enhancing the auditory training experience.
Where to find audiobooks
It’s easier than ever before to gain access to audiobooks. Subscriptions to services like Audible and purchases from platforms like Amazon make it easy to access a wide array of titles. Also, listening to audiobooks wherever you find yourself is made possible with the convenience of smartphones.
Podcasts also present a similar auditory experience if you can’t decide on a specific audiobook you want to listen to. They can also be a practical way to enhance your hearing while keeping your mind involved.
Connecting your hearing aids to audiobooks
Bluetooth connectivity is a pretty common feature on many types of hearing aids these days which allows them to have a wireless connection to your phone. This feature guarantees a high-quality, seamless auditory experience by allowing you to stream audiobooks directly to your hearing aids.
Consult with your hearing specialist
If you’re considering introducing audiobooks into your auditory training regimen, it’s a good idea 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 from this resource.
Call us today and let us help you be more successful with your auditory training.