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 standard, and rightly so. Audiobooks offer a modern, convenient way to enjoy literature, transforming the experience of reading into one of listening.
Take a contemporary approach to reading with audiobooks
An audiobook allows you to “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 ideas, get lost in exciting stories, or acquire new knowledge. Beyond being a pleasurable pastime, audiobooks can also serve a more practical purpose: auditory training.
Auditory training – exactly what is it?
So what exactly is “auditory training”? Auditory training is a practice tailored to helping a person perceive and better understand audio information. This training becomes especially relevant for individuals using hearing aids. For somebody who is coping with neglected hearing loss, living in a quieter environment becomes the norm.
Consequently, new sounds can initially seem overpowering when hearing aids are introduced.
Auditory training improves a person’s ability to process sound by helping the brain adapt to new sound inputs. It’s also advantageous for people who have language learning challenges or auditory processing conditions. Rather than simply sharpening hearing, auditory training helps you comprehend what you hear.
How audiobooks facilitate auditory training
Listening to audiobooks can significantly help with auditory training through a variety of mechanisms:
- Vocabulary Expansion: Audiobooks can broaden your vocabulary by exposing you to a diverse range of words.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks supply real-time practice in comprehending spoken language. Unlike spontaneous conversations, you can rewind and replay sections to develop comprehension. Your ability to comprehend spoken words can be refined by this practice.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding speech involves more than just hearing the words; it requires comprehension of the content. Audiobooks challenge your brain to link words with concepts, which can enhance your ability to follow conversations in everyday settings.
- Enhanced Focus: When individuals listen to audiobooks, their attention is engaged for longer periods of time. When somebody is trying to adjust to a new pair of hearing aids, becoming reacquainted with sustained listening by using audiobooks can be very helpful.
- Pronunciation Practice: For individuals with hearing loss, social separation can sometimes result in rusty communication skills. 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. This dual approach strengthens the link between spoken and written language, potentially speeding up the adaptation process for new auditory inputs. The auditory training process 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 gain access to audiobooks. There is a wide variety of audiobooks available on streaming services such as Audible and other platforms like Amazon. Moreover, with the convenience of cell phones, you can listen to audiobooks wherever you are, whether you’re at home or on the go.
Podcasts also provide a similar auditory experience if you can’t decide on a particular audiobook you want to listen to. They can also be a great way to improve your hearing while keeping your mind involved.
How to connect audiobooks to hearing aids
Bluetooth connectivity is a pretty common feature on many models of hearing aids nowadays which allows them to have a wireless link to your phone. 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 considering incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training program, it’s a good idea to consult with your hearing specialist. They can help you improve your auditory skills by giving you individualized advice about how to get the most out of this resource.
Reach out to us today to explore how audiobooks can assist your hearing journey.