Potentials of 3D Map Printing for Individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease

Abstract

An estimated 5.2 million people in the United States have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a figure that is forecasted to increase as cures for other diseases are discovered that improve life expectancy. A major effect of AD is a decrease in spatial cognitive abilities, capabilities that allow individuals to interpret and navigate their immediate surroundings. Past research attempted to indicate how and why AD affects spatial cognition, however none have investigated the introduction of cartographic media to assist with these limitations. Technological advancements have the potential to bridge the divide between spatial cognition loss and cartographic media. Rapid prototyping shows promise for developing three-dimensional (3D) printed cartographic media for various applications. This thesis aims to identify AD stages that would mostly benefit from cartographic media, whether 3D printed media has the potential to improve spatial cognition, and which cartographic design criteria might be appropriate for assisting AD population groups. The outcome of this thesis will be the production of 3D printed maps, demonstrating initial cartographic opportunities in AD patient independence.