Remember way back when we used to call audiobooks “books on tape”? Today we have digital streaming services and the term “audiobooks” has become the familiar term. Audiobooks offer a contemporary, convenient way to enjoy literature, turning the experience of reading into one of listening.
Take a contemporary approach to reading with audiobooks
With audiobooks, you don’t need to actually read a book, you can just listen to it. It’s essentially like someone is narrating the book for you. You can use this format to acquire new knowledge, become absorbed in captivating stories, and explore new concepts. Beyond being an enjoyable pastime, audiobooks can also serve a more practical purpose: auditory training.
Auditory training – exactly what is it?
So what exactly is “auditory training”? It’s a specialized practice aimed at improving your ability to process, perceive, and interpret auditory information. For people adapting to using hearing aids, this kind of training can be particularly helpful. When somebody experiences untreated hearing loss, their brain progressively becomes accustomed to a quieter environment.
Consequently, new sounds can at first seem overpowering when hearing aids are introduced.
Auditory training helps the brain adapt to these new auditory inputs, improving sound processing capabilities. For individuals who have auditory processing problems or language learning challenges, auditory training can also be really helpful. Auditory training both clarifies what you’re hearing and helps you have better comprehension.
How do audiobooks help with auditory training?
There are a number of ways that audiobooks can help with auditory training:
- Enhanced Focus: When people listen to audiobooks, their attention is engaged for longer periods of time. When someone is attempting to adjust to a new set of hearing aids, becoming reacquainted with sustained listening by using audiobooks can be really helpful.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks are a great way for an individual to practice understanding spoken language. Unlike audiobooks, with live conversation, you don’t have the ability to rewind and replay what was said. Your ability to comprehend spoken words can be refined by this practice.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Audiobooks can expand 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 successful after listening to audiobooks because they help with pronunciation.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding speech requires more than just hearing the words; it requires comprehension of the content. Audiobooks challenge your brain to link words with concepts, which can improve your ability to follow conversations in everyday settings.
Making the most of audiobooks as an auditory tool
Hearing specialists frequently recommend the pairing of an audiobook with a physical copy for maximum results. For new audio inputs, the adjustment process could be accelerated by this relationship between written and spoken words. The auditory training process will be enhanced by using audiobooks, making them a valuable complement to hearing aids.
Where to find audiobooks
Nowadays, audiobooks are more accessible than ever. There is a wide array of audiobooks obtainable on streaming services like Audible and other platforms like Amazon. Also, listening to audiobooks wherever you find yourself is made possible with the convenience of smartphones.
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.
How to connect audiobooks to hearing aids
Many modern hearing aids come furnished with Bluetooth technology, allowing them to pair directly with your phone or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. This feature ensures 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 introducing audiobooks into your auditory training regimen, it’s a good plan to consult with your hearing specialist. They can offer personalized advice and help you make the most of this resource to improve your auditory skills.
Call us today and let us help you be more successful with your auditory training.