In the past, we referred to them as “books-on-tape,” a term that seems almost archaic nowadays. 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.
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 immersed in captivating stories, and explore new ideas. Audiobooks can also serve as a source of auditory training.
What is auditory training?
So what exactly is “auditory training”? Auditory training is a practice tailored to helping a person perceive and better comprehend audio information. For individuals adapting to wearing hearing aids, this type of training can be particularly helpful. When somebody 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 helps the brain adjust to these new auditory inputs, enhancing sound processing capabilities. It’s also advantageous for individuals with language learning challenges or auditory processing conditions. Auditory training both clarifies what you’re hearing and helps you have better comprehension.
How audiobooks assist auditory training
Listening to audiobooks can significantly help with auditory training through various mechanisms:
- 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: When individuals listen to audiobooks, their attention is engaged for longer periods of time. They can help reacquaint you with sustained listening, which is especially useful if you’re adjusting to new hearing aids.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Audiobooks can broaden your vocabulary by exposing you to a diverse range of words.
- 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 replay what was said. Your ability to comprehend spoken words can be fine-tuned by this practice.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding speech entails more than just hearing the words; it requires comprehension of the content. Audiobooks challenge your brain to associate words with concepts, which can enhance your ability to follow conversations in daily settings.
Getting the most out of audiobooks as an auditory tool
For maximum results, hearing specialists usually suggest pairing audiobooks with a physical copy of the book. This dual strategy reinforces the connection between spoken and written language, potentially accelerating the adaptation process for new auditory inputs. Audiobooks are an effective complement to hearing aids, improving the auditory training experience.
Where to obtain audiobooks
Today, audiobooks are more available than ever. Subscriptions to services like Audible and purchases from platforms like Amazon make it easy to access a wide array of titles. Also, listening to audiobooks anywhere you find yourself is made possible with the advantage of smartphones.
If you’re struggling to find a suitable audiobook, podcasts provide a similar auditory experience on a wide range of subjects. They can also be a great way to improve your hearing while keeping your mind involved.
Connecting your hearing aids to audiobooks
Bluetooth connectivity is a fairly common feature on many types of hearing aids nowadays which allows them to have a wireless link to your phone. This feature gets rid of the need for separate headphones, letting you listen to audiobooks directly through your hearing aids, ensuring a seamless and high-quality auditory experience.
Your hearing specialist is the first place to begin
If you’re thinking about incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training program, it’s a good idea to consult with your hearing specialist. They can help you develop your auditory skills by giving you individualized advice about how to get the most out of this resource.
Reach out to us today to explore how audiobooks can support your hearing journey.