In the past, we called them “books-on-tape,” a term that seems almost archaic nowadays. With the introduction of CDs and, more recently, digital streaming, the term “audiobook” has become the standard, and rightly so. Audiobooks offer a modern, convenient way to enjoy literature, turning the experience of reading into one of listening.
Take a modern approach to reading with audiobooks
An audiobook allows you to “read” a book by listening to it. Fundamentally, it’s akin to having somebody narrate the book to you. You can use this format to acquire new knowledge, become absorbed in enchanting stories, and explore new concepts. Audiobooks can also serve as a source of auditory training.
What is auditory training?
You may be wondering, “What exactly is auditory training”? Auditory training is a practice designed to help an individual perceive and better comprehend audio information. This training becomes particularly relevant for individuals using hearing aids. When someone experiences untreated hearing loss, their brain progressively becomes accustomed to a quieter environment.
As a result, new sounds can at first seem overpowering when hearing aids are introduced.
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 difficulties or language learning difficulties, auditory training can also be really helpful. Auditory training both clarifies what you’re hearing and helps you have better comprehension.
How do audiobooks assist with auditory training?
Engaging with audiobooks can significantly help with auditory training through a variety of mechanisms:
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding spoken words requires content comprehension not simply hearing words. Audiobooks can help enhance your ability to follow day-to-day conversations by forcing your brain to associate words with concepts.
- Enhanced Focus: When individuals listen to audiobooks, their attention is engaged for longer periods of time. When someone is trying to adjust 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 an individual to practice understanding spoken language. Unlike spontaneous conversations, you can rewind and play back sections to develop comprehension. Your ability to comprehend spoken words can be fine-tuned by this practice.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Exposure to a diverse range of words through audiobooks can enrich your vocabulary.
- Pronunciation Practice: Communication skills can often become rusty after a period of social isolation. Listening to audiobooks helps with the pronunciation of words, which can improve general communication effectiveness.
Making the most of audiobooks as an auditory tool
For optimal results, hearing specialists usually suggest pairing audiobooks with a physical copy of the book. For new audio inputs, the adaptation process may be accelerated by this relationship between written and spoken words. Audiobooks are a valuable complement to hearing aids, improving the auditory training process.
Where to obtain audiobooks
Today, audiobooks are more available than ever. Subscriptions to services like Audible and purchases from platforms like Amazon make it easy to access a wide array of titles. Also, listening to audiobooks wherever you find yourself is made possible with the advantage of smartphones.
Podcasts also present a similar auditory experience if you can’t decide on a particular audiobook you want to listen to. They are also an ideal way to engage your mind while improving your hearing.
How to link audiobooks to hearing aids
Bluetooth connectivity is a fairly common feature on many types of hearing aids nowadays which allows them to have a wireless link to your phone. This feature eliminates the need for separate headphones, letting you listen to audiobooks directly through your hearing aids, ensuring a seamless and high-quality auditory experience.
Your hearing specialist is the first place to start
Setting up a consultation with your hearing specialist is the first step if you’re considering incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training routine. They can offer individualized 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 support your hearing journey.