In the past, we called them “books-on-tape,” a term that seems almost archaic today. Today we have digital streaming services and the term “audiobooks” has become the familiar term. Audiobooks offer a modern, convenient way to enjoy literature, transforming the experience of reading into one of listening.
Audiobooks: a modern approach to reading
With audiobooks, you won’t need to actually read a book, you can simply listen to it. It’s basically like someone is narrating the book for you. This format provides an immersive way to investigate new ideas, get lost in captivating stories, or gain new knowledge. Beyond being a pleasurable pastime, audiobooks can also serve a more functional purpose: auditory training.
What is auditory training?
You may be wondering, “What exactly is auditory training”? Auditory training is a practice designed to help an individual perceive and better comprehend audio information. For people adapting to wearing hearing aids, this type of training can be especially helpful. For someone who has neglected hearing loss, living in a quieter environment becomes the norm.
When new sounds are initially introduced, they can seem overpowering as a result.
Auditory training helps the brain adapt to these new auditory inputs, enhancing sound processing capabilities. It’s also beneficial for individuals with language learning challenges or auditory processing disorders. Rather than simply sharpening hearing, auditory training helps you make sense of what you hear.
How audiobooks assist auditory training
There are several ways that audiobooks can help with auditory training:
- Vocabulary Expansion: Audiobooks can expand your vocabulary by exposing you to a diverse range of words.
- Enhanced Focus: Audiobooks encourage longer periods of attention and engagement. When someone is attempting to adjust to a new set of hearing aids, becoming reacquainted with sustained listening by using audiobooks can be very helpful.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks are a great way for an individual to practice understanding spoken words. Unlike spontaneous conversations, you can rewind and play back sections to improve comprehension. This practice helps in refining your ability to grasp spoken words.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding spoken words involves content comprehension not simply hearing words. Audiobooks challenge your brain to associate words with concepts, which can enhance your ability to follow conversations in daily settings.
- Pronunciation Practice: Communication skills can frequently become rusty after a period of social isolation. Listening to audiobooks helps with the pronunciation of words, which can enhance overall communication effectiveness.
Maximizing audiobooks as auditory tools
For maximum results, hearing specialists often suggest pairing audiobooks with a physical copy of the book. This dual approach 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, enhancing the auditory training experience.
Where to find audiobooks
It’s easier than ever before to access audiobooks. There is a wide array of audiobooks obtainable on streaming services like Audible and other platforms like Amazon. Furthermore, with the convenience of cell phones, you can listen to audiobooks wherever you are, whether you’re at home or on the go.
Podcasts also provide a similar auditory experience if you can’t decide on a particular audiobook you want to listen to. They are also a great way to engage your mind while enhancing your hearing.
How to connect audiobooks to hearing aids
Many contemporary hearing aids come equipped with Bluetooth technology, allowing them to pair directly with your phone or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. This feature gets rid of the need for separate headphones, letting you listen to audiobooks directly through your hearing aids, ensuring a seamless and high-quality auditory experience.
Consult with your hearing specialist
If you’re thinking about incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training regimen, it’s a good idea to consult with your hearing specialist. They can help you develop your auditory skills by giving you personalized advice about how to get the most from this resource.
Contact us today to explore how audiobooks can assist your hearing journey.