Remember way back when we used to refer to audiobooks as “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 having to sit down and actually read.
Take a modern approach to reading with audiobooks
With audiobooks, you won’t need to actually read a book, you can just listen to it. Fundamentally, it’s akin 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. Audiobooks can also serve as a source of auditory training.
What is auditory training?
You might be wondering, “What exactly is auditory training”? It’s a specialized practice aimed at enhancing your ability to process, perceive, and interpret auditory information. This training becomes particularly relevant for individuals using hearing aids. For somebody who is coping with neglected hearing loss, living in a quieter environment becomes the norm.
Consequently, 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 useful for individuals with language learning difficulties or auditory processing disorders. Rather than simply clarifying hearing, auditory training helps you comprehend what you hear.
How audiobooks assist auditory training
Engaging with audiobooks can significantly help with auditory training through a variety of mechanisms:
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks are a great way for an individual to practice comprehending spoken words. Unlike spontaneous conversations, you can rewind and play back sections to develop comprehension. Your ability to comprehend spoken words can be refined by this practice.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Audiobooks can broaden your vocabulary by exposing you to a diverse range of words.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding speech requires more than just hearing the words; it requires comprehension of the content. Audiobooks can help increase your ability to follow everyday conversations by forcing your brain to associate words with concepts.
- Pronunciation Practice: For individuals with hearing loss, social separation can sometimes lead to rusty communication skills. Communication will be more effective after listening to audiobooks because they help with pronunciation.
- Enhanced Focus: When people listen to audiobooks, their attention is engaged for longer time periods. They can help reacquaint you with sustained listening, which is especially useful if you’re adjusting to new hearing aids.
Optimizing audiobooks as auditory tools
Hearing specialists frequently suggest the pairing of an audiobook with a physical copy for best results. For new audio inputs, the adjustment process may be accelerated by this connection between written and spoken words. Audiobooks are a valuable complement to hearing aids, enhancing the auditory training experience.
How to access audiobooks
It’s easier than ever before to access audiobooks. There is a wide variety of audiobooks available on streaming services like Audible and other platforms like Amazon. Additionally, with the convenience of smartphones, you can listen to audiobooks wherever you are, whether you’re at home or out and about.
Podcasts also present a similar auditory experience if you can’t decide on a specific audiobook you want to listen to. They can also be a practical way to enhance your hearing while keeping your mind engaged.
Connecting 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 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 start
If you’re considering incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training regimen, it’s a good plan to talk to your hearing specialist. They can offer individualized advice and help you make the most of this resource to enhance your auditory skills.
Reach out to us today to explore how audiobooks can support your hearing journey.