In the past, we referred to them as “books-on-tape,” a term that feels almost archaic today. Today we have digital streaming services and the term “audiobooks” has become the common term. Audiobooks allow you to enjoy literature while on the go without having to sit down and actually read.
Take a contemporary approach to reading with audiobooks
An audiobook allows you to “read” a book by listening to it. Essentially, it’s akin to having somebody narrate the book to you. You can utilize this format to acquire new knowledge, become immersed in captivating stories, and explore new ideas. Beyond being an enjoyable pastime, audiobooks can also serve a more practical purpose: auditory training.
Auditory training – exactly what is it?
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. This training becomes particularly useful for individuals who use hearing aids. When somebody experiences untreated hearing loss, their brain progressively becomes accustomed to a quieter environment.
As a result, new sounds can at first seem overpowering when hearing aids are introduced.
Auditory training increases a person’s ability to process sound by helping the brain adjust to new sound inputs. 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 do audiobooks assist with auditory training?
There are a number of ways in which audiobooks can help with auditory training:
- Pronunciation Practice: Communication skills can frequently become rusty after a period of social separation. Communication will be more successful after listening to audiobooks because they help with pronunciation.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding spoken words requires content comprehension not simply hearing words. Audiobooks challenge your brain to link words with concepts, which can improve your ability to follow conversations in daily settings.
- Enhanced Focus: Audiobooks encourage longer periods of attention and involvement. They can help reacquaint you with sustained listening, which is especially useful if you’re adjusting to new hearing aids.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Audiobooks can broaden your vocabulary by exposing you to a diversified range of words.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks are an excellent way for a person to practice understanding spoken language. Unlike audiobooks, with daily 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.
Getting the most out of audiobooks as an auditory tool
For optimal results, hearing specialists usually recommend pairing audiobooks with a physical copy of the book. This dual strategy reinforces the connection between spoken and written language, potentially speeding up the adaptation process for new auditory inputs. The auditory training experience will be improved by using audiobooks, making them a valuable complement to hearing aids.
How to access audiobooks
It’s easier than ever before to access audiobooks. Subscriptions to services such as Audible and purchases from websites like Amazon make it easy to access a wide assortment of titles. Furthermore, with the convenience of smartphones, you can listen to audiobooks anywhere, whether you’re at home or on the go.
If you’re struggling to find a suitable audiobook, podcasts provide a similar auditory experience on an assortment of topics. They can also be a practical way to enhance your hearing while keeping your mind involved.
How to connect audiobooks to hearing aids
Many contemporary hearing aids come furnished with Bluetooth technology, allowing them to pair directly with your phone or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. This feature guarantees a high-quality, seamless auditory experience by allowing you to stream audiobooks straight to your hearing aids.
Your hearing specialist is the first place to begin
If you’re thinking about incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training regimen, it’s a good plan to talk to your hearing specialist. 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.
