In the past, we called them “books-on-tape,” a term that seems almost archaic today. With the advent of CDs and, more recently, digital streaming, the term “audiobook” has become the norm, and rightly so. Audiobooks offer a modern, convenient way to enjoy literature, transforming the experience of reading into one of listening.
Take a modern approach to reading with audiobooks
With audiobooks, you don’t need to actually read a book, you can just listen to it. Fundamentally, it’s comparable to having somebody narrate the book to you. You can utilize this format to gain new knowledge, become immersed in enchanting stories, and explore new ideas. Audiobooks can also function as a source of auditory training.
What is auditory training?
You might be wondering, “What exactly is auditory training”? Auditory training is a practice tailored to helping an individual perceive and better comprehend audio information. This training becomes particularly useful for individuals who use hearing aids. When someone experiences untreated hearing loss, their brain gradually becomes used to a quieter environment.
When new sounds are first introduced, they can seem overpowering as a result.
Auditory training helps the brain adapt to these new auditory inputs, improving sound processing capabilities. For individuals who have auditory processing difficulties or language learning difficulties, auditory training can also be really helpful. Auditory training both sharpens what you’re hearing and helps you have better comprehension.
How do audiobooks assist with auditory training?
There are several ways that audiobooks can help with auditory training:
- 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 improve general communication effectiveness.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks supply real-time practice in understanding spoken words. Unlike spontaneous conversations, you can rewind and play back sections to develop comprehension. This practice helps in refining your ability to understand spoken words.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Audiobooks can broaden your vocabulary by exposing you to a diverse range of words.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding spoken words involves content comprehension not simply hearing words. Audiobooks can help improve your ability to follow day-to-day conversations by forcing your brain to link words with concepts.
- Enhanced Focus: When individuals listen to audiobooks, their attention is engaged for longer time periods. When someone is attempting to adjust to a new set of hearing aids, becoming reacquainted with sustained listening by using audiobooks can be really helpful.
Getting the most out of audiobooks as an auditory tool
For maximum results, hearing specialists often recommend pairing audiobooks with a physical copy of the book. For new audio inputs, the adaptation process could be accelerated by this relationship between written and spoken words. The auditory training experience will be improved by using audiobooks, making them an ideal complement to hearing aids.
How to access audiobooks
Today, audiobooks are more available than ever. Subscriptions to services like Audible and purchases from websites like Amazon make it easy to access a wide assortment of titles. Additionally, with the convenience of smartphones, you can listen to audiobooks wherever you are, whether you’re at home or out and about.
Podcasts also present a similar auditory experience if you can’t decide on a specific audiobook you want to listen to. They are also a great way to engage your mind while improving your hearing.
How to link audiobooks to hearing aids
Many modern hearing aids come furnished with Bluetooth technology, letting them pair directly with your phone or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. 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 start
Scheduling a consultation with your hearing specialist is the first step if you’re thinking about incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training routine. They can help you improve your auditory skills by giving you individualized advice about how to get the most out of this resource.
Give us a call today and let us help you be more successful with your auditory training.
