In the past, we referred to them as “books-on-tape,” a term that feels almost archaic nowadays. With the advent of CDs and, more recently, digital streaming, the term “audiobook” has become the norm, and rightly so. Audiobooks offer a modern, convenient way to enjoy literature, turning the experience of reading into one of listening.
Take a modern approach to reading with audiobooks
An audiobook allows you to “read” a book by listening to it. It’s basically like somebody is narrating the book for you. This format offers an immersive way to investigate new ideas, get lost in exciting stories, or gain new knowledge. Audiobooks can also function as a source of auditory training.
What is auditory training?
So what exactly is “auditory training”? It’s a specialized practice focused on enhancing your ability to process, perceive, and interpret auditory information. This training becomes especially useful for people who use hearing aids. For somebody who has neglected hearing loss, living in a quieter environment becomes the norm.
As a result, new sounds can at first seem overpowering when hearing aids are introduced.
Auditory training helps the brain adapt to these new auditory inputs, enhancing sound processing capabilities. It’s also useful for individuals with language learning difficulties or auditory processing conditions. Rather than simply clarifying hearing, auditory training helps you comprehend what you hear.
How audiobooks assist auditory training
There are several ways in which audiobooks can help with auditory training:
- Vocabulary Expansion: Audiobooks can broaden your vocabulary by exposing you to a diversified range of words.
- Pronunciation Practice: Communication skills can frequently become rusty after a period of social isolation. Communication will be more effective after listening to audiobooks because they help with pronunciation.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding spoken words involves content comprehension not simply hearing words. Audiobooks can help improve your ability to follow everyday conversations by forcing your brain to link words with concepts.
- Enhanced Focus: When people listen to audiobooks, their attention is engaged for longer periods of time. They can help reacquaint you with sustained listening, which is particularly useful if you’re adapting to new hearing aids.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks provide real-time practice in comprehending spoken language. Unlike spontaneous conversations, you can rewind and play back sections to improve comprehension. Your ability to understand spoken words can be fine-tuned by this practice.
Maximizing audiobooks as auditory tools
Hearing specialists often suggest 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. The auditory training experience will be improved by using audiobooks, making them a valuable complement to hearing aids.
Where to obtain audiobooks
Nowadays, audiobooks are more accessible than ever. Subscriptions to services such as Audible and purchases from platforms like Amazon make it easy to access a wide array of titles. Furthermore, with the convenience of cell phones, you can listen to audiobooks wherever you are, whether you’re at home or on the go.
Podcasts also provide a similar auditory experience if you can’t decide on a specific audiobook you want to listen to. They are also an ideal way to engage your mind while enhancing your hearing.
How to connect audiobooks to hearing aids
Many modern hearing aids come equipped with Bluetooth technology, letting them pair directly with your phone or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. This feature eliminates the need for separate headphones, allowing you to listen to audiobooks directly through your hearing aids, guaranteeing a seamless and high-quality auditory experience.
Your hearing specialist is the first place to begin
If you’re considering introducing audiobooks into your auditory training program, it’s a good idea to talk to your hearing specialist. They can provide personalized advice and help you make the most of this resource to enhance your auditory skills.
Contact us today to explore how audiobooks can support your hearing journey.