In the past, we called them “books-on-tape,” a term that seems almost archaic nowadays. With the advent 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 having to sit down and actually read.
Audiobooks: a modern approach to reading
An audiobook allows you to “read” a book by listening to it. Essentially, 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 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”? Auditory training is a practice designed to help a person perceive and better understand audio information. For people adapting to wearing hearing aids, this type of training can be especially helpful. When somebody experiences untreated hearing loss, their brain gradually becomes accustomed to a quieter environment.
As a result, new sounds can initially seem overpowering when hearing aids are introduced.
Auditory training helps the brain adapt to these new auditory inputs, improving sound processing capabilities. It’s also advantageous for individuals who have language learning challenges or auditory processing conditions. Auditory training both sharpens 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 various mechanisms:
- Speech Perception: Audiobooks are a great way for an individual to practice understanding spoken words. Unlike audiobooks, with daily conversation, you don’t have the ability to rewind and re-listen to what was said. This practice helps in refining your ability to grasp spoken words.
- Listening Comprehension: Understanding spoken words involves content comprehension not just hearing words. Audiobooks can help increase your ability to follow day-to-day conversations by forcing your brain to associate words with concepts.
- Enhanced Focus: Audiobooks encourage longer periods of attention and involvement. They can help reacquaint you with sustained listening, which is particularly useful if you’re adjusting to new hearing aids.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Audiobooks can broaden your vocabulary by exposing you to a diversified range of words.
- Pronunciation Practice: For people with hearing loss, social separation can sometimes lead to rusty communication skills. Communication will be more successful after listening to audiobooks because they help with pronunciation.
Maximizing audiobooks as auditory tools
For optimal results, hearing specialists often suggest pairing audiobooks with a physical copy of the book. This dual strategy reinforces the connection between spoken and written language, potentially speeding up the adaptation process for new auditory inputs. The auditory training process will be enhanced by using audiobooks, making them an ideal complement to hearing aids.
Where to obtain audiobooks
Nowadays, audiobooks are more available than ever. Subscriptions to services like Audible and purchases from websites like Amazon make it easy to access a wide array of titles. Also, listening to audiobooks anywhere 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 can also be a practical way to improve your hearing while keeping your mind engaged.
How to connect 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 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.
Consult with your hearing specialist
If you’re considering incorporating audiobooks into your auditory training program, it’s a good plan to consult with your hearing specialist. They can provide personalized advice and help you make the most of this resource to improve your auditory skills.
Contact us today to explore how audiobooks can support your hearing journey.