In the past, we called them “books-on-tape,” a term that feels almost archaic nowadays. With the introduction of CDs and, more recently, digital streaming, the term “audiobook” has become the standard, and rightly so. Audiobooks allow you to enjoy literature while on the go without needing to sit down and actually read.
Audiobooks: a contemporary 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 acquire new knowledge, become immersed in enchanting stories, and explore new ideas. Beyond being a pleasurable pastime, audiobooks can also serve a more practical purpose: 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 useful for individuals using hearing aids. When someone experiences untreated hearing loss, their brain gradually becomes accustomed to a quieter environment.
Consequently, new sounds can at first seem overwhelming when hearing aids are introduced.
Auditory training improves a person’s ability to process sound by helping the brain adapt 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 do audiobooks assist with auditory training?
Listening to audiobooks can significantly aid in auditory training through a variety of mechanisms:
- Pronunciation Practice: For individuals with hearing loss, social isolation can sometimes lead to rusty communication skills. Listening to audiobooks helps with the pronunciation of words, which can improve general communication effectiveness.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Exposure to a diverse assortment of words through audiobooks can improve your vocabulary.
- 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 link words with concepts.
- Enhanced Focus: Audiobooks encourage longer periods of attention and involvement. When someone is trying to adjust to a new set of hearing aids, becoming reacquainted with sustained listening by using audiobooks can be really helpful.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks provide real-time practice in comprehending spoken language. Unlike audiobooks, with live conversation, you don’t have the ability to rewind and replay what was said. This practice helps in fine-tuning your ability to comprehend spoken words.
Optimizing audiobooks as auditory tools
Hearing specialists often recommend the pairing of an audiobook with a physical copy for best results. For new audio inputs, the adjustment 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.
How to access audiobooks
It’s easier than it ever has been to access audiobooks. There is a wide variety of audiobooks available on streaming services such as Audible and other platforms like Amazon. Also, listening to audiobooks wherever you find yourself is made possible with the advantage of smartphones.
If you’re struggling to find a suitable audiobook, podcasts offer a similar auditory experience on a variety of topics. They are also an ideal way to engage your mind while enhancing your hearing.
How to connect audiobooks to hearing aids
Bluetooth connectivity is a fairly common feature on many models of hearing aids nowadays which allows them to have a wireless link to your phone. This feature eliminates the need for separate headphones, allowing you to listen to audiobooks directly through your hearing aids, guaranteeing a seamless and high-quality auditory experience.
Your hearing specialist is the first place to start
If you’re considering incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training program, it’s a good idea to consult with your hearing specialist. They can help you improve your auditory skills by giving you personalized advice about how to get the most from this resource.
Contact us today to explore how audiobooks can support your hearing journey.