Relying on your sat nav or Google Maps could damage your brain and increase risk of Alzheimer’s, experts warn

RELYING heavily on your sat nav while behind the wheel could harm your brain, an expert has warned. And some drivers even risk developing Alzheimer’s if they use their navigation systems too often. Relying on a sat nav for directions could damage your brain over time Navigation expert and former British diplomat David Barrie urged drivers to use their own sense of direction instead of a GPS. He said motorists who rely heavily on navigation apps restrict their brain’s ability to hold memory and problem solve. Speaking at recent event, Mr Barrie said: "Crucially, as we become more and more dependent on these electronic gadgets to find our way around, we are becoming more and more cut off from the natural world. "This sense of immersion in nature, and losing yourself in the natural world and the extraordinary rewards that come from that, well you lose that." How to avoid becoming too reliant on your sat nav Buy a map book: You’ll become more familiar with your route and local area if you study physical street map. Double check direction before taking off: Drivers can test their sense of direction by memorising their route before starting their journey. Go old school: You won’t be tempted to use your GPS if you put it in the boot or leave it at home all together. Try using a traditional road map. Observe your surroundings: Take note of key landmarks, street names and suburbs as you may need these details during an emergency or when your GPS runs out of battery. Ask for directions: It may seem daunting, but asking a fellow motorist about where to go can help fine tune your sense of direction. And this dependence could have serious health implications later in life. According to the expert, the hippocus […]

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