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 standard, and rightly so. Audiobooks allow you to enjoy literature while on the go without needing to sit down and actually read.
Audiobooks: a modern approach to reading
With audiobooks, you don’t need to actually read a book, you can simply listen to it. Essentially, it’s comparable to having someone narrate the book to you. This format provides an immersive way to investigate new ideas, get lost in exciting stories, or gain new knowledge. Beyond being an enjoyable 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 aimed at enhancing your ability to process, perceive, and interpret auditory information. This training becomes particularly relevant for individuals using hearing aids. When somebody experiences untreated hearing loss, their brain progressively becomes accustomed to a quieter environment.
When new sounds are first introduced, they can seem overpowering as a result.
Auditory training helps the brain adapt to these new auditory inputs, enhancing sound processing capabilities. It’s also useful for individuals who have language learning challenges or auditory processing conditions. Auditory training both clarifies what you’re hearing and helps you have better comprehension.
How do audiobooks help with auditory training?
Engaging with audiobooks can substantially aid in auditory training through a variety of mechanisms:
- Enhanced Focus: When individuals listen to audiobooks, their attention is engaged for longer periods of time. They can help reacquaint you with sustained listening, which is particularly useful if you’re adapting to new hearing aids.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding speech involves more than just hearing the words; it requires comprehension of the content. Audiobooks can help increase your ability to follow day-to-day conversations by forcing your brain to link words with concepts.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Audiobooks can expand your vocabulary by exposing you to a diversified range of words.
- Pronunciation Practice: For people 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.
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks are an excellent way for an individual to practice understanding spoken language. Unlike audiobooks, with live conversation, you don’t have the ability to rewind and re-listen to what was said. Your ability to comprehend spoken words can be fine-tuned by this practice.
Maximizing audiobooks as auditory tools
Hearing specialists often recommend the pairing of an audiobook with a physical copy for best results. This dual approach strengthens the connection between spoken and written language, potentially accelerating the adaptation process for new auditory inputs. The auditory training process will be improved by using audiobooks, making them an ideal complement to hearing aids.
How to access audiobooks
It’s easier than ever before to access audiobooks. There is a wide variety of audiobooks available on streaming services like Audible and other platforms like Amazon. Also, listening to audiobooks wherever you find yourself is made possible with the advantage of smartphones.
Podcasts also provide a similar auditory experience if you can’t decide on a specific audiobook you want to listen to. They can also be a great way to enhance your hearing while keeping your mind engaged.
Connecting your hearing aids to audiobooks
Bluetooth connectivity is a fairly common feature on many models of hearing aids these days which allows them to have a wireless link to your phone. This feature gets rid of the need for separate headphones, letting you listen to audiobooks directly through your hearing aids, ensuring a seamless and high-quality auditory experience.
Talk to your hearing specialist
Setting up a consultation with your hearing specialist is the first step if you’re thinking about incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training program. They can help you develop your auditory skills by giving you individualized advice about how to get the most from this resource.
Reach out to us today to explore how audiobooks can support your hearing journey.
