In the past, we called them “books-on-tape,” a term that seems almost archaic nowadays. With the introduction of CDs and, more recently, digital streaming, the term “audiobook” has become the norm, and rightly so. Audiobooks offer a contemporary, convenient way to enjoy literature, transforming the experience of reading into one of listening.
Audiobooks: a contemporary approach to reading
With audiobooks, you don’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 use this format to gain new knowledge, become immersed in enchanting stories, and explore new ideas. Beyond being an enjoyable pastime, audiobooks can also serve a more functional purpose: auditory training.
What is auditory training?
You might 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 useful for individuals who use hearing aids. When someone experiences untreated hearing loss, their brain progressively becomes accustomed to a quieter environment.
As a result, new sounds can at first seem overpowering when hearing aids are introduced.
Auditory training improves a person’s ability to process sound by helping the brain adjust to new sound inputs. It’s also advantageous for people with language learning difficulties or auditory processing conditions. Rather than simply clarifying hearing, auditory training helps you make sense of what you hear.
How audiobooks facilitate auditory training
There are a number of ways in which audiobooks can help with auditory training:
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding speech involves more than simply hearing the words; it requires comprehension of the content. Audiobooks can help increase your ability to follow everyday conversations by forcing your brain to link words with concepts.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks supply real-time practice in understanding spoken words. Unlike audiobooks, with live conversation, you don’t have the ability to rewind and re-listen to what was said. Your ability to comprehend spoken words can be refined by this practice.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Audiobooks can expand your vocabulary by exposing you to a diverse range of words.
- Pronunciation Practice: For people 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.
- Enhanced Focus: Audiobooks encourage longer periods of attention and involvement. They can help reacquaint you with sustained listening, which is particularly useful if you’re adapting to new hearing aids.
Maximizing audiobooks as auditory tools
For maximum results, hearing specialists usually suggest pairing audiobooks with a physical copy of the book. For new audio inputs, the adaptation process could be accelerated by this relationship between written and spoken words. The auditory training process will be enhanced 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. 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.
If you’re having trouble finding a suitable audiobook, podcasts offer a similar auditory experience on an assortment of subjects. They can also be a great way to enhance your hearing while keeping your mind involved.
Linking your hearing aids to audiobooks
Bluetooth connectivity is a fairly common feature on many types of hearing aids these days 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.
Talk to your hearing specialist
If you’re thinking about incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training program, it’s a good plan to consult with your hearing specialist. They can offer personalized advice and help you make the most of this resource to enhance your auditory skills.
Reach out to us today to explore how audiobooks can assist your hearing journey.
