In the past, we called them “books-on-tape,” a term that feels almost archaic nowadays. With the introduction of CDs and, more recently, digital streaming, the term “audiobook” has become the standard, and rightly so. Audiobooks allow you to enjoy literature while on the go without having to sit down and actually read.
Audiobooks: a contemporary approach to reading
An audiobook allows you to “read” a book by listening to it. It’s essentially like someone is narrating the book for you. You can use this format to gain 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 might be wondering, “What exactly is auditory training”? Auditory training is a practice designed to help a person perceive and better comprehend audio information. For people adapting to wearing hearing aids, this kind of training can be particularly helpful. For someone who is coping with neglected hearing loss, living in a quieter environment becomes the norm.
When new sounds are first introduced, they can seem overwhelming as a result.
Auditory training improves a person’s ability to process sound by helping the brain adapt to new sound inputs. For people who have auditory processing problems or language learning difficulties, auditory training can also be very helpful. Auditory training both sharpens what you’re hearing and helps you have better comprehension.
How do audiobooks help with auditory training?
There are several ways in which audiobooks can help with auditory training:
- Pronunciation Practice: Communication skills can often become rusty after a period of social isolation. Communication will be more successful after listening to audiobooks because they help with pronunciation.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Exposure to a diverse assortment of words through audiobooks can improve your vocabulary.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding spoken words requires content comprehension not simply hearing words. Audiobooks challenge your brain to connect words with concepts, which can enhance your ability to follow conversations in daily settings.
- Enhanced Focus: When people listen to audiobooks, their attention is engaged for longer periods of time. They can help reacquaint you with sustained listening, which is particularly useful if you’re adapting to new hearing aids.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks are an excellent way for a person to practice understanding spoken words. Unlike spontaneous conversations, you can rewind and replay sections to improve comprehension. This practice helps in fine-tuning your ability to grasp spoken words.
Optimizing audiobooks as auditory tools
Hearing specialists frequently suggest the pairing of an audiobook with a physical copy for maximum 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 an ideal complement to hearing aids.
Where to obtain audiobooks
It’s easier than ever before to gain access to audiobooks. There is a wide array of audiobooks obtainable on streaming services like Audible and other platforms like Amazon. Also, listening to audiobooks anywhere you find yourself is made possible with the convenience of smartphones.
Podcasts also present a similar auditory experience if you can’t decide on a particular audiobook you want to listen to. They are also an ideal way to engage your mind while improving your hearing.
Linking your hearing aids to audiobooks
Many contemporary hearing aids come equipped with Bluetooth technology, allowing them to pair directly with your phone or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. 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 introducing audiobooks into your auditory training program, it’s a good plan to talk to your hearing specialist. They can help you improve your auditory skills by giving you individualized 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.