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 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 won’t need to actually read a book, you can just listen to it. Essentially, it’s akin to having someone narrate the book to you. You can utilize this format to acquire new knowledge, become absorbed in enchanting stories, and explore new concepts. Audiobooks can also function as a source of auditory training.
What is auditory training?
So what exactly is “auditory training”? Auditory training is a practice designed to help an individual perceive and better comprehend audio information. This training becomes especially useful for individuals who use hearing aids. For someone 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 improves a person’s ability to process sound by helping the brain adjust to new sound inputs. For individuals who have auditory processing difficulties or language learning challenges, auditory training can also be really helpful. Rather than simply clarifying 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:
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks are an excellent way for an individual to practice understanding spoken language. Unlike spontaneous conversations, you can rewind and replay sections to develop comprehension. This practice helps in refining your ability to grasp spoken words.
- Enhanced Focus: When individuals listen to audiobooks, their attention is engaged for longer time periods. When somebody is attempting to adapt to a new pair of hearing aids, becoming reacquainted with sustained listening by using audiobooks can be really helpful.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding spoken words involves content comprehension not just hearing words. Audiobooks can help improve your ability to follow everyday conversations by forcing your brain to link words with concepts.
- Pronunciation Practice: For individuals with hearing loss, social isolation can sometimes result in rusty communication skills. Listening to audiobooks helps with the pronunciation of words, which can enhance general communication effectiveness.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Audiobooks can expand your vocabulary by exposing you to a diverse range of words.
Maximizing audiobooks as auditory tools
For optimal results, hearing specialists usually suggest pairing audiobooks with a physical copy of the book. This dual strategy strengthens the link between spoken and written language, potentially speeding up the adaptation process for new auditory inputs. 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 it ever has been to gain access to audiobooks. Subscriptions to services such as Audible and purchases from platforms like Amazon make it easy to access a wide array of titles. Additionally, with the convenience of smartphones, you can listen to audiobooks anywhere, whether you’re at home or on the go.
If you’re having trouble finding a suitable audiobook, podcasts offer a similar auditory experience on a wide range of subjects. They can also be a practical way to enhance your hearing while keeping your mind engaged.
How to connect audiobooks to hearing aids
Bluetooth connectivity is a fairly common feature on many models of hearing aids nowadays which allows them to have a wireless connection to your phone. This feature eliminates the need for separate headphones, letting you listen to audiobooks directly through your hearing aids, ensuring a seamless and high-quality auditory experience.
Your hearing specialist is the first place to begin
Setting up a consultation with your hearing specialist is the first step if you’re thinking about incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training program. They can provide personalized advice and help you make the most of this resource to enhance your auditory skills.
Give us a call today and let us help you be more successful with your auditory training.