In the past, we referred to them as “books-on-tape,” a term that seems almost archaic today. With the introduction of CDs and, more recently, digital streaming, the term “audiobook” has become the standard, and rightly so. Audiobooks offer a modern, convenient way to enjoy literature, transforming the experience of reading into one of listening.
Take a modern approach to reading with audiobooks
An audiobook lets you “read” a book by listening to it. Fundamentally, it’s comparable to having someone narrate the book to you. This format provides an immersive way to investigate new ideas, get lost in captivating stories, or acquire new knowledge. Beyond being an enjoyable pastime, audiobooks can also serve a more practical purpose: auditory training.
What is auditory training?
So what exactly is “auditory training”? It’s a specialized practice focused on improving your ability to process, perceive, and interpret auditory information. For people adapting to wearing hearing aids, this kind of training can be especially helpful. When somebody experiences untreated hearing loss, their brain gradually becomes accustomed to a quieter environment.
Consequently, new sounds can at first seem overpowering when hearing aids are introduced.
Auditory training helps the brain adapt to these new auditory inputs, improving sound processing capabilities. It’s also beneficial for individuals who have language learning difficulties or auditory processing conditions. Rather than simply clarifying hearing, auditory training helps you comprehend what you hear.
How audiobooks facilitate auditory training
There are several ways in which audiobooks can help with auditory training:
- Enhanced Focus: Audiobooks encourage longer periods of attention and engagement. When someone is trying to adapt to a new pair of hearing aids, becoming reacquainted with sustained listening by using audiobooks can be really helpful.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Audiobooks can expand your vocabulary by exposing you to a diversified range of words.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks provide real-time practice in comprehending spoken words. Unlike spontaneous conversations, you can rewind and replay sections to develop comprehension. This practice helps in fine-tuning your ability to understand spoken words.
- Pronunciation Practice: For individuals with hearing loss, social isolation can sometimes lead to rusty communication skills. Communication will be more effective after listening to audiobooks because they help with pronunciation.
- 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 associate words with concepts.
Getting the most out of audiobooks as an auditory tool
Hearing specialists frequently suggest the pairing of an audiobook with a physical copy for maximum results. For new audio inputs, the adjustment process could be accelerated by this connection between written and spoken words. Audiobooks are an effective complement to hearing aids, improving the auditory training process.
How to access audiobooks
Nowadays, audiobooks are more available than ever. There is a wide variety of audiobooks obtainable on streaming services like Audible and other platforms like Amazon. Furthermore, with the convenience of smartphones, you can listen to audiobooks anywhere, whether you’re at home or on the go.
If you’re struggling to find a suitable audiobook, podcasts provide a similar auditory experience on a variety of topics. They can also be a great way to enhance your hearing while keeping your mind engaged.
How to link audiobooks to hearing aids
Many contemporary hearing aids come furnished with Bluetooth technology, letting them pair directly with your phone or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. 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.
Consult with your hearing specialist
Setting up a consultation with your hearing specialist is the first step if you’re considering incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training routine. They can offer personalized advice and help you make the most of this resource to improve your auditory skills.
Contact us today to explore how audiobooks can assist your hearing journey.
