Travel writer Tara McAndrew had a revelation in Wellington, N.Z., when she unexpectedly found herself at the edge of a forest instead of the rental apartment she was supposed to see. This experience prompted her to reconsider her heavy reliance on GPS for navigation. Over the past decade, McAndrew, who is based in Ontario and writes for Travel with TMc, has traveled extensively around the world. While she still uses Waze or Google Maps for directions in unfamiliar cities, she now challenges herself to find her own way back without technological assistance.
Research indicates that McAndrew’s approach might be beneficial for brain health. A study conducted at McGill University and published in Scientific Reports in 2020 revealed that individuals who heavily depended on GPS for directions exhibited poorer spatial memory over time. The hippocampus, the part of the brain responsible for spatial memory, can weaken and reorganize if not utilized regularly for navigation. This decline in spatial memory could lead to a higher risk of conditions like Alzheimer’s disease.
To combat spatial-memory loss and cognitive decline, neuroscientist Louisa Dahmani recommends being mindful of surroundings while using GPS and trying to navigate without technology, similar to McAndrew’s approach. Learning from Brenda Holder, a Cree traditional knowledge keeper, emphasizes the importance of staying calm when feeling lost and using natural cues for navigation, such as the position of the sun or stars.
In light of potential GPS failures and interference, authorities in Europe are reverting to older navigation technologies, like LORAN, to mitigate risks. McAndrew, reflecting on her childhood experiences with paper maps, finds solace in reducing her reliance on GPS tools while traveling. She acknowledges the value of her map-reading skills and the benefits of a more holistic approach to navigation.
By embracing a balance between technology and traditional navigation methods, individuals like McAndrew and Holder are not only enhancing their cognitive abilities but also fostering a deeper connection with their surroundings. This shift towards a more mindful approach to wayfinding could have long-term benefits for brain health and overall well-being.
