Remember way back when we used to refer to audiobooks as “books on tape”? Nowadays we have digital streaming services and the term “audiobooks” has become the common term. Audiobooks offer a modern, convenient way to enjoy literature, transforming the experience of reading into one of listening.
Audiobooks: a contemporary approach to reading
An audiobook lets you “read” a book by listening to it. It’s basically like someone is narrating the book for you. You can use this format to acquire new knowledge, become immersed in captivating stories, and explore new concepts. Audiobooks can also serve as a source of 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. This training becomes particularly relevant for people using hearing aids. When someone experiences untreated hearing loss, their brain gradually becomes used to a quieter environment.
As a result, new sounds can at first seem overwhelming when hearing aids are introduced.
Auditory training helps the brain adjust to these new auditory inputs, enhancing sound processing capabilities. It’s also useful for those with language learning difficulties or auditory processing conditions. Auditory training both clarifies 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:
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks are an excellent way for a person to practice comprehending spoken words. Unlike audiobooks, with live conversation, you don’t have the ability to rewind and replay what was said. Your ability to comprehend spoken words can be fine-tuned by this practice.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding spoken words requires content comprehension not simply hearing words. Audiobooks can help increase your ability to follow everyday conversations by forcing your brain to link words with concepts.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Audiobooks can broaden your vocabulary by exposing you to a diverse range of words.
- Pronunciation Practice: Communication skills can frequently become rusty after a period of social separation. Communication will be more effective after listening to audiobooks because they help with pronunciation.
- Enhanced Focus: When individuals listen to audiobooks, their attention is engaged for longer time periods. They can help reacquaint you with sustained listening, which is especially useful if you’re adjusting to new hearing aids.
Making the most of audiobooks as an auditory tool
Hearing specialists frequently recommend the pairing of an audiobook with a physical copy for maximum results. This dual strategy strengthens the link between spoken and written language, potentially accelerating the adaptation process for new auditory inputs. Audiobooks are a valuable complement to hearing aids, improving the auditory training process.
Where to find audiobooks
Nowadays, audiobooks are more accessible than ever. Subscriptions to services such as Audible and purchases from websites like Amazon make it easy to access a wide array of titles. Also, listening to audiobooks wherever you find yourself is made possible with the convenience of smartphones.
Podcasts also provide a similar auditory experience if you can’t decide on a particular audiobook you want to listen to. They are also an ideal way to engage your mind while improving your hearing.
Connecting your hearing aids to audiobooks
Bluetooth connectivity is a fairly common feature on many types of hearing aids nowadays which allows them to have a wireless connection 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.
Your hearing specialist is the first place to begin
Scheduling a consultation with your hearing specialist is the first step if you’re thinking about incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training program. They can offer personalized 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.
