In the past, we referred to them as “books-on-tape,” a term that feels almost archaic today. With the introduction 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.
Audiobooks: a modern approach to reading
An audiobook lets you “read” a book by listening to it. Fundamentally, it’s comparable to having somebody narrate the book to you. This format offers an immersive way to explore new concepts, get lost in captivating stories, or gain new knowledge. Beyond being a pleasurable 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”? It’s a specialized practice aimed at enhancing your ability to process, perceive, and decipher auditory information. This training becomes particularly relevant for people using hearing aids. For somebody who has neglected hearing loss, living in a quieter environment becomes the norm.
When new sounds are initially introduced, they can seem overpowering as a result.
Auditory training improves a person’s ability to process sound by helping the brain adapt to new sound inputs. It’s also useful for people with language learning difficulties or auditory processing disorders. Rather than simply sharpening hearing, auditory training helps you comprehend what you hear.
How do audiobooks help 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. Communication will be more effective after listening to audiobooks because they help with pronunciation.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Audiobooks can broaden your vocabulary by exposing you to a diversified range of words.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding spoken words requires content comprehension not simply hearing words. Audiobooks can help improve your ability to follow everyday conversations by forcing your brain to associate words with concepts.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks are an excellent way for an individual to practice understanding spoken language. Unlike spontaneous conversations, you can rewind and play back sections to improve comprehension. This practice helps in refining your ability to comprehend spoken words.
- 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 adapting to new hearing aids.
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 strengthens the link between spoken and written language, potentially accelerating the adaptation process for new auditory inputs. The auditory training process will be enhanced by using audiobooks, making them an ideal complement to hearing aids.
How to access audiobooks
Today, audiobooks are more accessible than ever. There is a wide array of audiobooks obtainable on streaming services like Audible and other platforms like Amazon. Moreover, with the convenience of cell phones, you can listen to audiobooks anywhere, whether you’re at home or out and about.
Podcasts also present 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 enhancing your hearing.
How to connect audiobooks to hearing aids
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 ensures a high-quality, seamless auditory experience by allowing you to stream audiobooks directly to your hearing aids.
Consult with your hearing specialist
If you’re considering incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training program, it’s a good idea to consult with your hearing specialist. They can help you develop your auditory skills by giving you individualized advice about how to get the most from this resource.
Call us today and let us help you be more successful with your auditory training.