Remember way back when we used to call audiobooks “books on tape”? Today we have digital streaming services and the term “audiobooks” has become the familiar 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
An audiobook lets you “read” a book by listening to it. Fundamentally, it’s akin to having someone narrate the book to you. You can use this format to gain new knowledge, become immersed in enchanting stories, and explore new ideas. Audiobooks can also serve as a source of auditory training.
Auditory training – exactly what is it?
You might be wondering, “What exactly is auditory training”? It’s a specialized practice focused on enhancing your ability to process, perceive, and interpret auditory information. For individuals adapting to using hearing aids, this kind of training can be especially helpful. When someone experiences untreated hearing loss, their brain gradually becomes accustomed to a quieter environment.
As a result, new sounds can at first seem overwhelming when hearing aids are introduced.
Auditory training helps the brain adjust to these new auditory inputs, enhancing sound processing capabilities. It’s also beneficial for people who have language learning difficulties or auditory processing disorders. Auditory training both sharpens what you’re hearing and helps you have better comprehension.
How do audiobooks assist with auditory training?
There are a number of ways that audiobooks can help with auditory training:
- Vocabulary Expansion: Exposure to a diversified assortment of words through audiobooks can improve your vocabulary.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding speech requires more than simply hearing the words; it requires comprehension of the content. Audiobooks can help enhance your ability to follow day-to-day conversations by forcing your brain to link words with concepts.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks are a great way for an individual to practice understanding spoken language. Unlike spontaneous conversations, you can rewind and replay sections to develop comprehension. This practice helps in refining your ability to comprehend spoken words.
- Pronunciation Practice: For people with hearing loss, social separation can sometimes result in rusty communication skills. Communication will be more effective 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 optimal results, hearing specialists usually suggest pairing audiobooks with a physical copy of the book. This dual strategy strengthens the link between spoken and written language, potentially speeding up the adaptation process for new auditory inputs. The auditory training experience will be enhanced by using audiobooks, making them an ideal complement to hearing aids.
How to access audiobooks
It’s easier than ever before to access audiobooks. Subscriptions to services such as 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 struggling to find a suitable audiobook, podcasts offer a similar auditory experience on an assortment of subjects. They are also a great way to engage your mind while improving your hearing.
Linking your hearing aids to audiobooks
Many contemporary hearing aids come furnished with Bluetooth technology, letting them pair directly with your phone or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. This feature ensures a high-quality, seamless auditory experience by allowing you to stream audiobooks straight to your hearing aids.
Talk to your hearing specialist
Scheduling a consultation with your hearing specialist is the first step if you’re thinking about incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training routine. They can help you improve your auditory skills by giving you individualized advice about how to get the most out of this resource.
Call us today and let us help you be more successful with your auditory training.
