In the past, we called them “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 norm, and rightly so. Audiobooks allow you to enjoy literature while on the go without having to sit down and actually read.
Audiobooks: a contemporary approach to reading
An audiobook lets you “read” a book by listening to it. Fundamentally, it’s comparable to having somebody narrate the book to you. This format provides an immersive way to explore new ideas, get lost in exciting stories, or gain new knowledge. Audiobooks can also function as a source of auditory training.
Auditory training – exactly what is it?
You may be wondering, “What exactly is auditory training”? It’s a specialized practice aimed at enhancing your ability to process, perceive, and interpret auditory information. For individuals adapting to wearing hearing aids, this kind of training can be especially helpful. When someone experiences untreated hearing loss, their brain gradually becomes accustomed to a quieter environment.
When new sounds are initially introduced, they can seem overwhelming as a result.
Auditory training helps the brain adapt to these new auditory inputs, improving sound processing capabilities. For people who have auditory processing problems or language learning difficulties, 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?
Engaging with audiobooks can significantly aid in auditory training through a variety of mechanisms:
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks provide real-time practice in comprehending spoken words. Unlike audiobooks, with live conversation, you don’t have the ability to rewind and replay what was said. This practice helps in fine-tuning your ability to comprehend spoken words.
- Enhanced Focus: Audiobooks encourage longer periods of attention and involvement. When someone is attempting to adapt to a new set of hearing aids, becoming reacquainted with sustained listening by using audiobooks can be very helpful.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Audiobooks can broaden your vocabulary by exposing you to a diversified range of words.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding speech involves more than simply hearing the words; it requires comprehension of the content. Audiobooks can help increase your ability to follow day-to-day conversations by forcing your brain to link words with concepts.
- Pronunciation Practice: Communication skills can often become rusty after a period of social separation. Listening to audiobooks helps with the pronunciation of words, which can improve general communication effectiveness.
Maximizing audiobooks as auditory tools
For maximum results, hearing specialists often suggest pairing audiobooks with a physical copy of the book. For new audio inputs, the adaptation process could be accelerated by this relationship between written and spoken words. Audiobooks are a valuable complement to hearing aids, improving the auditory training process.
Where to find audiobooks
It’s easier than ever before to access audiobooks. Subscriptions to services like Audible and purchases from platforms like Amazon make it easy to access a wide range of titles. Also, listening to audiobooks anywhere you find yourself is made possible with the advantage of smartphones.
Podcasts also provide a similar auditory experience if you can’t decide on a particular audiobook you want to listen to. They can also be a great way to enhance your hearing while keeping your mind engaged.
How to link audiobooks to hearing aids
Bluetooth connectivity is a pretty common feature on many types of hearing aids these days which allows them to have a wireless link to your phone. This feature eliminates the need for separate headphones, allowing you to listen to audiobooks directly through your hearing aids, ensuring a seamless and high-quality auditory experience.
Your hearing specialist is the first place to start
If you’re considering introducing 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 personalized advice about how to get the most from this resource.
Contact us today to explore how audiobooks can support your hearing journey.