In the past, we called them “books-on-tape,” a term that feels almost archaic nowadays. Nowadays we have digital streaming services and the term “audiobooks” has become the familiar term. Audiobooks allow you to enjoy literature while on the go without having to sit down and actually read.
Audiobooks: a modern approach to reading
With audiobooks, you won’t need to actually read a book, you can simply listen to it. Fundamentally, it’s comparable to having someone narrate the book to you. You can use this format to gain new knowledge, become absorbed in enchanting stories, and explore new concepts. Audiobooks can also serve as a source of auditory training.
Auditory training – exactly what is it?
You might be wondering, “What exactly is auditory training”? Auditory training is a practice designed to help a person perceive and better understand audio information. This training becomes particularly useful for individuals using hearing aids. For somebody 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 adjust to new sound inputs. For individuals who have auditory processing problems or language learning challenges, auditory training can also be very helpful. Rather than simply sharpening hearing, auditory training helps you comprehend what you hear.
How audiobooks assist auditory training
There are a number of ways that audiobooks can help with auditory training:
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding speech involves more than simply hearing the words; it requires comprehension of the content. Audiobooks can help improve your ability to follow day-to-day conversations by forcing your brain to associate words with concepts.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks provide real-time practice in comprehending spoken words. Unlike spontaneous conversations, you can rewind and replay sections to develop comprehension. Your ability to comprehend spoken words can be fine-tuned by this practice.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Exposure to a diverse assortment of words through audiobooks can enrich your vocabulary.
- Enhanced Focus: When people listen to audiobooks, their attention is engaged for longer time periods. They can help reacquaint you with sustained listening, which is especially useful if you’re adapting to new hearing aids.
- Pronunciation Practice: For those with hearing loss, social isolation can sometimes result in rusty communication skills. Communication will be more effective after listening to audiobooks because they help with pronunciation.
Optimizing audiobooks as auditory tools
Hearing specialists often recommend the pairing of an audiobook with a physical copy for maximum results. For new audio inputs, the adjustment process may be accelerated by this connection between written and spoken words. Audiobooks are a valuable complement to hearing aids, improving the auditory training experience.
How to access audiobooks
Nowadays, audiobooks are more accessible than ever. There is a wide array of audiobooks available on streaming services like Audible and other platforms like Amazon. Additionally, with the convenience of smartphones, you can listen to audiobooks wherever you are, 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.
How to connect audiobooks to hearing aids
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 straight to your hearing aids.
Consult with your hearing specialist
Setting up a consultation with your hearing specialist is the first step if you’re considering introducing audiobooks into your auditory training program. They can offer individualized 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.