In the past, we called them “books-on-tape,” a term that feels 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 contemporary, convenient way to enjoy literature, transforming the experience of reading into one of listening.
Audiobooks: a contemporary approach to reading
With audiobooks, you won’t need to actually read a book, you can just listen to it. It’s essentially like someone is narrating the book for you. This format provides an immersive way to investigate new ideas, get lost in captivating stories, or gain 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”? Auditory training is a practice tailored to helping an individual perceive and better comprehend audio information. This training becomes especially useful for individuals who use hearing aids. For somebody who is coping with neglected hearing loss, living in a quieter environment becomes the norm.
As a result, new sounds can at first seem overwhelming when hearing aids are introduced.
Auditory training helps the brain adapt to these new auditory inputs, enhancing sound processing capabilities. For individuals who have auditory processing problems or language learning challenges, auditory training can also be really helpful. Auditory training both sharpens what you’re hearing and helps you have better comprehension.
How do audiobooks help with auditory training?
Listening to audiobooks can significantly help with auditory training through a variety of mechanisms:
- Vocabulary Expansion: Exposure to a diverse range of words through audiobooks can enrich your vocabulary.
- 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.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks provide real-time practice in understanding spoken words. Unlike audiobooks, with daily 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 spoken words involves content comprehension not simply hearing words. Audiobooks challenge your brain to link words with concepts, which can enhance your ability to follow conversations in everyday settings.
- 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.
Getting the most out of audiobooks as an auditory tool
Hearing specialists often suggest the pairing of an audiobook with a physical copy for best results. This dual approach strengthens the link between spoken and written language, potentially speeding up the adaptation process for new auditory inputs. Audiobooks are a valuable complement to hearing aids, enhancing the auditory training experience.
Where to find audiobooks
It’s easier than ever before to access audiobooks. There is a wide variety of audiobooks obtainable on streaming services like Audible and other platforms like Amazon. Moreover, 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 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 involved.
Linking your hearing aids to audiobooks
Many contemporary hearing aids come equipped 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.
Consult with your hearing specialist
If you’re thinking about incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training regimen, it’s a good idea to consult with your hearing specialist. They can provide individualized advice and help you make the most of this resource to enhance your auditory skills.
Call us today and let us help you be more successful with your auditory training.
