In the past, we referred to them as “books-on-tape,” a term that seems almost archaic nowadays. Today we have digital streaming services and the term “audiobooks” has become the common term. Audiobooks allow you to enjoy literature while on the go without needing to sit down and actually read.
Take a contemporary approach to reading with audiobooks
With audiobooks, you won’t need to actually read a book, you can simply listen to it. Essentially, 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 ideas. Beyond being a pleasurable pastime, audiobooks can also serve a more functional purpose: auditory training.
Auditory training – exactly what is it?
You may be wondering, “What exactly is auditory training”? It’s a specialized practice focused on improving your ability to process, perceive, and decipher auditory information. For individuals adapting to using hearing aids, this type of training can be particularly helpful. For someone who has neglected hearing loss, living in a quieter environment becomes the norm.
As a result, new sounds can initially seem overpowering when hearing aids are introduced.
Auditory training improves a person’s ability to process sound by helping the brain adapt to new sound inputs. It’s also useful for those who have language learning challenges or auditory processing conditions. Rather than simply sharpening hearing, auditory training helps you comprehend what you hear.
How audiobooks facilitate auditory training
Listening to audiobooks can significantly aid in auditory training through various mechanisms:
- Vocabulary Expansion: Exposure to a diversified range of words through audiobooks can improve your vocabulary.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks supply real-time practice in understanding spoken words. Unlike spontaneous conversations, you can rewind and play back sections to develop comprehension. Your ability to understand spoken words can be refined by this practice.
- Enhanced Focus: When people listen to audiobooks, their attention is engaged for longer periods of time. When somebody is attempting to adjust to a new set of hearing aids, becoming reacquainted with sustained listening by using audiobooks can be very helpful.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding speech requires more than just hearing the words; it requires comprehension of the content. Audiobooks challenge your brain to connect words with concepts, which can enhance your ability to follow conversations in everyday settings.
- Pronunciation Practice: For people 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.
Making the most of audiobooks as an auditory tool
Hearing specialists frequently suggest the pairing of an audiobook with a physical copy for best results. For new audio inputs, the adaptation process could be accelerated by this connection between written and spoken words. The auditory training experience will be improved by using audiobooks, making them a valuable complement to hearing aids.
Where to obtain audiobooks
It’s easier than ever before to gain access to audiobooks. There is a wide array of audiobooks available on streaming services such as Audible and other platforms like Amazon. Additionally, with the convenience of cell phones, you can listen to audiobooks anywhere, 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 are also an ideal way to engage your mind while improving your hearing.
Connecting your hearing aids to audiobooks
Bluetooth connectivity is a pretty common feature on many models of hearing aids these days which allows them to have a wireless link to your phone. This feature guarantees a high-quality, seamless auditory experience by allowing you to stream audiobooks directly to your hearing aids.
Talk to your hearing specialist
Setting up a consultation with your hearing specialist is the first step if you’re thinking about incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training program. They can offer 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.