Remember way back when we used to refer to audiobooks as “books on tape”? Today 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.
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 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 concepts. 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 enhancing your ability to process, perceive, and decipher auditory information. For people adapting to wearing hearing aids, this kind of training can be particularly helpful. For someone who has neglected hearing loss, living in a quieter environment becomes the norm.
When new sounds are first introduced, they can seem overpowering as a result.
Auditory training helps the brain adjust to these new auditory inputs, improving sound processing capabilities. For people who have auditory processing problems or language learning challenges, auditory training can also be really helpful. Auditory training both sharpens what you’re hearing and helps you have better comprehension.
How audiobooks facilitate auditory training
Engaging with audiobooks can substantially aid in auditory training through various mechanisms:
- Enhanced Focus: Audiobooks encourage longer periods of attention and engagement. They can help reacquaint you with sustained listening, which is particularly useful if you’re adjusting to new hearing aids.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding spoken words involves content comprehension not just hearing words. Audiobooks can help increase your ability to follow everyday conversations by forcing your brain to link words with concepts.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Exposure to a diverse assortment of words through audiobooks can enrich your vocabulary.
- Pronunciation Practice: For individuals with hearing loss, social separation can sometimes lead to rusty communication skills. Communication will be more effective after listening to audiobooks because they help with pronunciation.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks are an excellent way for an individual to practice understanding spoken words. Unlike spontaneous conversations, you can rewind and play back sections to improve comprehension. Your ability to comprehend spoken words can be fine-tuned by this practice.
Getting the most out of audiobooks as an auditory tool
Hearing specialists often recommend the pairing of an audiobook with a physical copy for maximum results. This dual strategy reinforces the connection between spoken and written language, potentially speeding up the adaptation process for new auditory inputs. Audiobooks are a valuable complement to hearing aids, improving the auditory training experience.
Where to obtain audiobooks
Nowadays, audiobooks are more available than ever. There is a wide variety of audiobooks available on streaming services like Audible and other platforms like Amazon. Also, listening to audiobooks anywhere 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 a great 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 link to your phone. This feature eliminates the need for separate headphones, allowing you to listen to audiobooks directly through your hearing aids, ensuring a seamless and high-quality auditory experience.
Talk to your hearing specialist
If you’re thinking about incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training regimen, it’s a good idea to talk to your hearing specialist. They can provide personalized advice and help you make the most of this resource to improve your auditory skills.
Contact us today to explore how audiobooks can support your hearing journey.