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 needing to sit down and actually read.
Audiobooks: a modern approach to reading
An audiobook allows you to “read” a book by listening to it. It’s essentially like somebody is narrating the book for you. This format provides an immersive way to investigate new ideas, get lost in captivating stories, or gain new knowledge. Audiobooks can also serve 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 focused on improving your ability to process, perceive, and interpret auditory information. This training becomes especially useful for individuals 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 helps the brain adjust to these new auditory inputs, enhancing sound processing capabilities. It’s also useful for individuals who have language learning difficulties or auditory processing conditions. Auditory training both clarifies what you’re hearing and helps you have better comprehension.
How do audiobooks help with auditory training?
There are a number of ways that audiobooks can help with auditory training:
- 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 develop comprehension. Your ability to comprehend spoken words can be refined by this practice.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding spoken words requires content comprehension not just hearing words. Audiobooks challenge your brain to associate words with concepts, which can improve your ability to follow conversations in everyday settings.
- Pronunciation Practice: Communication skills can often become rusty after a period of social separation. Listening to audiobooks helps with the pronunciation of words, which can enhance overall communication effectiveness.
- Enhanced Focus: When people listen to audiobooks, their attention is engaged for longer periods of time. When somebody is attempting to adjust to a new set of hearing aids, becoming reacquainted with sustained listening by using audiobooks can be very helpful.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Audiobooks can broaden your vocabulary by exposing you to a diverse range of words.
Optimizing audiobooks as auditory tools
For optimal results, hearing specialists usually recommend pairing audiobooks with a physical copy of the book. This dual approach reinforces the connection between spoken and written language, potentially speeding up the adaptation process for new auditory inputs. Audiobooks are an effective complement to hearing aids, improving the auditory training process.
How to access audiobooks
Nowadays, audiobooks are more available than ever. Subscriptions to services like Audible and purchases from websites like Amazon make it easy to access a wide range of titles. Also, listening to audiobooks wherever you find yourself is made possible with the advantage of smartphones.
Podcasts also present a similar auditory experience if you can’t decide on a specific audiobook you want to listen to. They are also an ideal way to engage your mind while enhancing your hearing.
Linking your hearing aids to audiobooks
Bluetooth connectivity is a pretty common feature on many types of hearing aids nowadays which allows them to have a wireless connection 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 thinking about incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training regimen, 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.