Remember way back when we used to call audiobooks “books on tape”? Today we have digital streaming services and the term “audiobooks” has become the familiar term. Audiobooks offer a modern, convenient way to enjoy literature, turning the experience of reading into one of listening.
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. Fundamentally, it’s akin to having somebody narrate the book to you. You can utilize this format to acquire new knowledge, become absorbed in enchanting stories, and explore new concepts. Audiobooks can also function as a source of auditory training.
Auditory training – exactly what is it?
You may be wondering, “What exactly is auditory training”? It’s a specialized practice aimed at improving your ability to process, perceive, and decipher auditory information. This training becomes particularly relevant for people using hearing aids. When someone experiences untreated hearing loss, their brain gradually becomes accustomed to a quieter environment.
When new sounds are initially introduced, they can seem overwhelming as a result.
Auditory training increases a person’s ability to process sound by helping the brain adjust to new sound inputs. It’s also useful for those who have language learning difficulties or auditory processing conditions. Rather than simply clarifying hearing, auditory training helps you make sense of what you hear.
How audiobooks assist auditory training
There are a number of ways that audiobooks can help with auditory training:
- Enhanced Focus: When people listen to audiobooks, their attention is engaged for longer time periods. When someone is trying to adjust to a new pair of hearing aids, becoming reacquainted with sustained listening by using audiobooks can be really helpful.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks are an excellent way for an individual to practice comprehending spoken words. Unlike spontaneous conversations, you can rewind and play back sections to improve comprehension. This practice helps in refining your ability to understand spoken words.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Exposure to a diversified assortment of words through audiobooks can improve your vocabulary.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding speech requires more than just hearing the words; it requires comprehension of the content. Audiobooks challenge your brain to connect words with concepts, which can improve your ability to follow conversations in everyday settings.
- Pronunciation Practice: For those with hearing loss, social isolation can sometimes lead to rusty communication skills. Communication will be more successful after listening to audiobooks because they help with pronunciation.
Maximizing audiobooks as auditory tools
Hearing specialists often suggest the pairing of an audiobook with a physical copy for best results. This dual approach reinforces the connection 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.
Where to find audiobooks
It’s easier than it ever has been to gain access to audiobooks. There is a wide variety of audiobooks available on streaming services such as Audible and other platforms like Amazon. Also, listening to audiobooks wherever you find yourself is made possible with the convenience of smartphones.
If you’re having trouble finding a suitable audiobook, podcasts offer a similar auditory experience on an assortment of subjects. They are also an ideal way to engage your mind while enhancing your hearing.
How to link audiobooks to hearing aids
Bluetooth connectivity is a pretty common feature on many types of hearing aids these days which allows them to have a wireless connection to your phone. This feature gets rid of the need for separate headphones, allowing you to listen to audiobooks directly through your hearing aids, guaranteeing a seamless and high-quality auditory experience.
Consult with your hearing specialist
Scheduling a consultation with your hearing specialist is the first step if you’re thinking about introducing audiobooks into your auditory training program. They can help you improve your auditory skills by giving you personalized 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.