In the past, we referred to them as “books-on-tape,” a term that seems almost archaic today. 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 contemporary approach to reading
An audiobook allows you to “read” a book by listening to it. Essentially, it’s comparable to having somebody narrate the book to you. You can utilize this format to gain new knowledge, become absorbed in enchanting stories, and explore new concepts. Beyond being an enjoyable pastime, audiobooks can also serve a more functional purpose: auditory training.
Auditory training – exactly what is it?
You might be wondering, “What exactly is auditory training”? It’s a specialized practice aimed at enhancing your ability to process, perceive, and decipher auditory information. For individuals adapting to using hearing aids, this type of training can be especially helpful. When someone experiences untreated hearing loss, their brain progressively becomes used to a quieter environment.
When new sounds are initially introduced, they can seem overwhelming as a result.
Auditory training increases 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 challenges, auditory training can also be very helpful. Rather than simply sharpening hearing, auditory training helps you comprehend what you hear.
How audiobooks assist auditory training
There are a number of ways in which audiobooks can help with auditory training:
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks are a great way for an individual to practice comprehending 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 understand spoken words can be refined by this practice.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding spoken words requires content comprehension not just hearing words. Audiobooks can help enhance your ability to follow everyday conversations by forcing your brain to link words with concepts.
- Enhanced Focus: Audiobooks encourage longer periods of attention and engagement. When someone is attempting to adjust to a new pair of hearing aids, becoming reacquainted with sustained listening by using audiobooks can be very helpful.
- Pronunciation Practice: For people with hearing loss, social isolation can sometimes result in rusty communication skills. Communication will be more effective after listening to audiobooks because they help with pronunciation.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Audiobooks can broaden your vocabulary by exposing you to a diversified range of words.
Optimizing audiobooks as auditory tools
Hearing specialists frequently recommend the pairing of an audiobook with a physical copy for maximum results. This dual approach reinforces the link between spoken and written language, potentially speeding up the adaptation process for new auditory inputs. Audiobooks are an effective complement to hearing aids, enhancing the auditory training process.
How to access audiobooks
It’s easier than ever before to access audiobooks. Subscriptions to services like Audible and purchases from platforms like Amazon make it easy to access a wide range of titles. Moreover, with the convenience of cell phones, you can listen to audiobooks anywhere, whether you’re at home or out and about.
Podcasts also present a similar auditory experience if you can’t decide on a particular audiobook you want to listen to. They can also be a practical way to improve your hearing while keeping your mind engaged.
How to link audiobooks to hearing aids
Bluetooth connectivity is a pretty common feature on many models of hearing aids nowadays which allows them to have a wireless link to your phone. This feature ensures a high-quality, seamless auditory experience by allowing you to stream audiobooks directly to your hearing aids.
Talk to your hearing specialist
Scheduling a consultation with your hearing specialist is the first step if you’re considering introducing audiobooks into your auditory training program. They can offer individualized advice and help you make the most of this resource to improve your auditory skills.
Reach out to us today to explore how audiobooks can support your hearing journey.