Remember way back when we used to refer to audiobooks as “books on tape”? With the introduction of CDs and, more recently, digital streaming, the term “audiobook” has become the norm, and rightly so. Audiobooks offer a modern, convenient way to enjoy literature, turning the experience of reading into one of listening.
Audiobooks: a modern approach to reading
An audiobook lets you “read” a book by listening to it. It’s basically like someone is narrating the book for you. You can use this format to gain new knowledge, become immersed in captivating stories, and explore new ideas. Audiobooks can also serve as a source of auditory training.
What is auditory training?
So what exactly is “auditory training”? It’s a specialized practice focused on improving your ability to process, perceive, and interpret auditory information. This training becomes particularly relevant for people who use hearing aids. When someone experiences untreated hearing loss, their brain progressively becomes used to a quieter environment.
When new sounds are initially introduced, they can seem overpowering as a result.
Auditory training helps the brain adapt to these new auditory inputs, improving sound processing capabilities. It’s also beneficial for people who have language learning difficulties or auditory processing disorders. Auditory training both clarifies what you’re hearing and helps you have better comprehension.
How audiobooks assist auditory training
Listening to audiobooks can significantly aid in auditory training through a variety of mechanisms:
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding spoken words involves content comprehension not just hearing words. Audiobooks can help improve your ability to follow day-to-day conversations by forcing your brain to link words with concepts.
- Pronunciation Practice: For individuals with hearing loss, social separation can sometimes lead to rusty communication skills. Listening to audiobooks helps with the pronunciation of words, which can improve overall communication effectiveness.
- Enhanced Focus: When individuals listen to audiobooks, their attention is engaged for longer time periods. They can help reacquaint you with sustained listening, which is particularly useful if you’re adapting to new hearing aids.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Audiobooks can broaden your vocabulary by exposing you to a diverse range of words.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks are an excellent way for a person to practice comprehending spoken language. Unlike audiobooks, with live conversation, you don’t have the ability to rewind and re-listen to what was said. This practice helps in fine-tuning your ability to understand spoken words.
Maximizing audiobooks as auditory tools
For optimal results, hearing specialists usually recommend pairing audiobooks with a physical copy of the book. For new audio inputs, the adjustment process may be accelerated by this relationship between written and spoken words. Audiobooks are a valuable complement to hearing aids, enhancing the auditory training experience.
How to access audiobooks
Today, audiobooks are more accessible than ever. Subscriptions to services such as Audible and purchases from platforms like Amazon make it easy to access a wide assortment of titles. Also, listening to audiobooks anywhere you find yourself is made possible with the convenience of smartphones.
If you’re having trouble finding a suitable audiobook, podcasts provide a similar auditory experience on a variety of subjects. They are also a great way to engage your mind while enhancing your hearing.
Linking your hearing aids to audiobooks
Bluetooth connectivity is a fairly common feature on many types of hearing aids these days which allows them to have a wireless link to your phone. This feature ensures a high-quality, seamless auditory experience by allowing you to stream audiobooks straight to your hearing aids.
Your hearing specialist is the first place to begin
Setting up a consultation with your hearing specialist is the first step if you’re thinking about introducing audiobooks into your auditory training routine. They can offer personalized advice and help you make the most of this resource to improve your auditory skills.
Reach out to us today to explore how audiobooks can assist your hearing journey.