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 needing to sit down and actually read.
Take a contemporary approach to reading with audiobooks
With audiobooks, you don’t need to actually read a book, you can simply listen to it. It’s basically like somebody is narrating the book for you. You can utilize this format to acquire new knowledge, become immersed in captivating stories, and explore new concepts. Beyond being a pleasurable pastime, audiobooks can also serve a more functional purpose: auditory training.
What is auditory training?
So what exactly is “auditory training”? Auditory training is a practice tailored to helping a person perceive and better comprehend audio information. For individuals adapting to using hearing aids, this kind of training can be particularly helpful. For somebody who is coping with neglected hearing loss, living in a quieter environment becomes the norm.
Consequently, new sounds can initially seem overwhelming when hearing aids are introduced.
Auditory training helps the brain adapt to these new auditory inputs, improving sound processing capabilities. For people who have auditory processing difficulties or language learning difficulties, auditory training can also be very helpful. Auditory training both clarifies what you’re hearing and helps you have better comprehension.
How do audiobooks assist with auditory training?
There are a number of ways in which audiobooks can help with auditory training:
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks are a great way for a person to practice comprehending spoken words. Unlike spontaneous conversations, you can rewind and play back sections to develop comprehension. This practice helps in fine-tuning your ability to understand spoken words.
- Pronunciation Practice: Communication skills can often become rusty after a period of social separation. Communication will be more effective after listening to audiobooks because they help with pronunciation.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Audiobooks can expand your vocabulary by exposing you to a diversified range of words.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding spoken words requires content comprehension not just hearing words. Audiobooks can help increase your ability to follow everyday conversations by forcing your brain to associate words with concepts.
- Enhanced Focus: When individuals listen to audiobooks, their attention is engaged for longer time periods. When somebody is attempting to adjust to a new pair of hearing aids, becoming reacquainted with sustained listening by using audiobooks can be very helpful.
Maximizing audiobooks as auditory tools
Hearing specialists frequently recommend the pairing of an audiobook with a physical copy for best results. For new audio inputs, the adjustment process may be accelerated by this relationship between written and spoken words. The auditory training experience will be enhanced by using audiobooks, making them a valuable complement to hearing aids.
How to access audiobooks
It’s easier than ever before to access audiobooks. There is a wide variety of audiobooks obtainable on streaming services like Audible and other platforms like Amazon. Additionally, with the convenience of smartphones, you can listen to audiobooks anywhere, whether you’re at home or out and about.
If you’re having trouble finding a suitable audiobook, podcasts offer a similar auditory experience on a variety of subjects. They are also a great way to engage your mind while enhancing your hearing.
How to connect audiobooks to hearing aids
Bluetooth connectivity is a pretty common feature on many types of hearing aids these days which allows them to have a wireless link to your phone. This feature eliminates the need for separate headphones, allowing you to listen to audiobooks directly through your hearing aids, guaranteeing a seamless and high-quality auditory experience.
Consult with your hearing specialist
Setting up a consultation with your hearing specialist is the first step if you’re considering introducing audiobooks into your auditory training routine. They can provide individualized advice and help you make the most of this resource to enhance your auditory skills.
Call us today and let us help you be more successful with your auditory training.