Remember way back when we used to call audiobooks “books on tape”? 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.
Audiobooks: a modern approach to reading
With audiobooks, you won’t need to actually read a book, you can simply listen to it. Essentially, it’s comparable to having someone narrate the book to you. You can utilize this format to acquire new knowledge, become immersed in captivating stories, and explore new ideas. Beyond being a pleasurable pastime, audiobooks can also serve a more functional purpose: auditory training.
Auditory training – exactly what is it?
So what exactly is “auditory training”? Auditory training is a practice tailored to helping an individual perceive and better comprehend audio information. This training becomes especially relevant for people using hearing aids. For someone 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 helps the brain adapt to these new auditory inputs, enhancing sound processing capabilities. It’s also useful for people who have language learning challenges or auditory processing disorders. Auditory training both sharpens what you’re hearing and helps you have better comprehension.
How audiobooks facilitate auditory training
There are a number of ways that audiobooks can help with auditory training:
- Enhanced Focus: When individuals listen to audiobooks, their attention is engaged for longer periods of time. When somebody is trying to adapt to a new pair of hearing aids, becoming reacquainted with sustained listening by using audiobooks can be really helpful.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks provide real-time practice in comprehending spoken language. Unlike audiobooks, with live conversation, you don’t have the ability to rewind and re-listen to what was said. This practice helps in fine-tuning your ability to comprehend spoken words.
- Pronunciation Practice: For individuals with hearing loss, social isolation can sometimes result in rusty communication skills. Listening to audiobooks helps with the pronunciation of words, which can improve general communication effectiveness.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding speech entails more than simply hearing the words; it requires comprehension of the content. Audiobooks can help enhance your ability to follow day-to-day conversations by forcing your brain to link words with concepts.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Exposure to a diverse range of words through audiobooks can improve your vocabulary.
Getting the most out of audiobooks as an auditory tool
Hearing specialists frequently recommend the pairing of an audiobook with a physical copy for best results. This dual approach strengthens the connection between spoken and written language, potentially speeding up 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
It’s easier than it ever has been to gain access to audiobooks. 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 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 specific audiobook you want to listen to. They can also be a great way to enhance your hearing while keeping your mind engaged.
Connecting 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 gets rid of the need for separate headphones, letting you listen to audiobooks directly through your hearing aids, ensuring a seamless and high-quality auditory experience.
Talk to your hearing specialist
Setting up 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 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.