In the past, we referred to them as “books-on-tape,” a term that feels almost archaic today. Nowadays 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 modern approach to reading with audiobooks
With audiobooks, you won’t need to actually read a book, you can simply listen to it. It’s essentially like somebody is narrating the book for you. You can utilize this format to gain new knowledge, become immersed in captivating stories, and explore new concepts. Beyond being a pleasurable pastime, audiobooks can also serve a more functional purpose: auditory training.
Auditory training – exactly what is it?
You might 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 kind of training can be particularly helpful. For someone who is coping with neglected hearing loss, living in a quieter environment becomes the norm.
When new sounds are initially introduced, they can seem overwhelming as a result.
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 substantially help with auditory training through a variety of mechanisms:
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks supply real-time practice in comprehending spoken words. Unlike audiobooks, with live conversation, you don’t have the ability to rewind and replay what was said. Your ability to understand spoken words can be fine-tuned by this practice.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding speech requires more than just hearing the words; it requires comprehension of the content. Audiobooks challenge your brain to associate words with concepts, which can improve your ability to follow conversations in daily settings.
- Enhanced Focus: When people listen to audiobooks, their attention is engaged for longer time periods. When someone is attempting to adjust to a new pair of hearing aids, becoming reacquainted with sustained listening by using audiobooks can be very helpful.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Exposure to a diversified range of words through audiobooks can improve your vocabulary.
- 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.
Optimizing audiobooks as auditory tools
For maximum results, hearing specialists often recommend pairing audiobooks with a physical copy of the book. For new audio inputs, the adjustment process may be accelerated by this relationship between written and spoken words. Audiobooks are a valuable complement to hearing aids, enhancing the auditory training experience.
How to access audiobooks
Nowadays, audiobooks are more accessible than ever. There is a wide variety of audiobooks available on streaming services like Audible and other platforms like Amazon. Also, listening to audiobooks wherever you find yourself is made possible with the advantage of smartphones.
If you’re having trouble finding a suitable audiobook, podcasts offer a similar auditory experience on an assortment of topics. They are also an ideal way to engage your mind while enhancing your hearing.
Linking your hearing aids to audiobooks
Many contemporary hearing aids come equipped with Bluetooth technology, letting them pair directly with your phone or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. This feature eliminates the need for separate headphones, letting you 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 considering introducing 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 from this resource.
Contact us today to explore how audiobooks can assist your hearing journey.