Remember way back when we used to refer to audiobooks as “books on tape”? Nowadays we have digital streaming services and the term “audiobooks” has become the common term. Audiobooks offer a contemporary, convenient way to enjoy literature, turning the experience of reading into one of listening.
Audiobooks: a contemporary approach to reading
An audiobook allows you to “read” a book by listening to it. Essentially, it’s akin to having somebody narrate the book to you. You can use this format to gain new knowledge, become immersed in enchanting stories, and explore new ideas. Beyond being an enjoyable pastime, audiobooks can also serve a more practical purpose: auditory training.
What is auditory training?
You might 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 using hearing aids, this type of training can be especially helpful. For someone who is coping with neglected hearing loss, living in a quieter environment becomes the norm.
When new sounds are first introduced, they can seem overwhelming as a result.
Auditory training improves a person’s ability to process sound by helping the brain adapt to new sound inputs. For people 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 audiobooks assist auditory training
There are several ways that audiobooks can help with auditory training:
- Enhanced Focus: Audiobooks encourage longer periods of attention and engagement. When somebody is trying to adapt to a new pair of hearing aids, becoming reacquainted with sustained listening by using audiobooks can be very helpful.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks are a great way for a person to practice comprehending spoken language. 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.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Audiobooks can broaden your vocabulary by exposing you to a diversified range of words.
- Pronunciation Practice: Communication skills can often become rusty after a period of social separation. Communication will be more effective after listening to audiobooks because they help with pronunciation.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding spoken words involves content comprehension not just hearing words. Audiobooks challenge your brain to associate words with concepts, which can enhance your ability to follow conversations in daily settings.
Getting the most out of audiobooks as an auditory tool
Hearing specialists frequently recommend the pairing of an audiobook with a physical copy for best results. For new audio inputs, the adaptation process may be accelerated by this connection between written and spoken words. The auditory training process will be enhanced by using audiobooks, making them an ideal complement to hearing aids.
Where to find audiobooks
Nowadays, audiobooks are more available than ever. There is a wide array of audiobooks obtainable on streaming services such as Audible and other platforms like Amazon. Furthermore, with the convenience of smartphones, you can listen to audiobooks anywhere, whether you’re at home or out and about.
If you’re struggling to find a suitable audiobook, podcasts provide a similar auditory experience on a wide range of topics. They can also be a great way to enhance your hearing while keeping your mind involved.
Linking your hearing aids to audiobooks
Many modern hearing aids come furnished 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 directly to your hearing aids.
Your hearing specialist is the first place to start
Scheduling a consultation with your hearing specialist is the first step if you’re thinking about incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training routine. They can help you improve your auditory skills by giving you personalized advice about how to get the most from this resource.
Call us today and let us help you be more successful with your auditory training.