Remember way back when we used to refer to audiobooks as “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 modern, convenient way to enjoy literature, turning the experience of reading into one of listening.
Take a contemporary approach to reading with audiobooks
An audiobook allows you to “read” a book by listening to it. It’s essentially like somebody is narrating the book for you. This format offers an immersive way to explore new concepts, get lost in exciting stories, or gain new knowledge. Audiobooks can also function as a source of auditory training.
Auditory training – exactly what is it?
You might be wondering, “What exactly is auditory training”? It’s a specialized practice focused on enhancing your ability to process, perceive, and decipher auditory information. For individuals adapting to wearing hearing aids, this type of training can be particularly helpful. When somebody experiences untreated hearing loss, their brain gradually becomes accustomed 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 adapt to new sound inputs. For individuals who have auditory processing difficulties or language learning difficulties, auditory training can also be really helpful. Auditory training both sharpens what you’re hearing and helps you have better comprehension.
How audiobooks assist auditory training
There are several ways that audiobooks can help with auditory training:
- 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: Audiobooks can broaden your vocabulary by exposing you to a diversified range of words.
- Enhanced Focus: Audiobooks encourage longer periods of attention and engagement. They can help reacquaint you with sustained listening, which is particularly useful if you’re adapting to new hearing aids.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks supply real-time practice in comprehending spoken language. Unlike audiobooks, with live conversation, you don’t have the ability to rewind and re-listen to what was said. This practice helps in refining your ability to understand spoken words.
- 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.
Getting the most out of audiobooks as an auditory tool
For maximum results, hearing specialists often recommend pairing audiobooks with a physical copy of the book. This dual approach reinforces the link 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
Nowadays, audiobooks are more available than ever. There is a wide array of audiobooks obtainable on streaming services like Audible and other platforms like Amazon. Also, listening to audiobooks wherever you find yourself is made possible with the advantage of smartphones.
Podcasts also present a similar auditory experience if you can’t decide on a particular audiobook you want to listen to. They can also be a great way to enhance your hearing while keeping your mind involved.
Connecting your hearing aids to audiobooks
Many modern hearing aids come equipped with Bluetooth technology, letting them pair directly with your phone or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. This feature eliminates the need for separate headphones, allowing you to listen to audiobooks directly through your hearing aids, ensuring a seamless and high-quality auditory experience.
Talk to your hearing specialist
If you’re considering incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training regimen, it’s a good plan to consult with your hearing specialist. They can provide personalized advice and help you make the most of this resource to improve your auditory skills.
Contact us today to explore how audiobooks can support your hearing journey.
