Cognitive Mapping of Spatial Stress in Urban Settings for the Blind: Toward Inclusive and Adaptive City Design

Abstract

Wayfinding in urban environments is a complex spatial task that necessitates the integration of sensory information, spatial memory, and decision-making to navigate effectively. Cognitive mapping of spatial stress in urban settings for blind and visually impaired (BVI) individuals represents a critical intersection of accessibility and technology, addressing the unique challenges these populations face when navigating complex environments.

The objective of this study was to promote strategies that enhance cognitive mapping and navigation for visually impaired individuals, ultimately fostering more inclusive urban spaces. Additionally, the study identified key stressors that contribute to cognitive overload and stress for visually impaired individuals, including uncertainty in orientation, environmental unpredictability, and insufficient sensory feedback. The results underscore the necessity of designing urban spaces that support the cognitive mapping abilities of visually impaired individuals, highlighting the impact of urban environments on their emotional and psychological well-being. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the importance of inclusive urban design, assistive technologies, and environmental legibility in facilitating navigation for blind or visually impaired individuals in urban settings.

The study emphasizes the crucial intersection of cognitive mapping, urban planning, and assistive technology, advocating for a paradigm shift toward more inclusive design practices that prioritize the needs of all urban residents, including individuals with visual impairments. The key findings of the study emphasize the significance of cognitive mapping, assistive technologies, and inclusive urban design in facilitating navigation for individuals who are blind or visually impaired in urban settings. Additionally, research indicates that cognitive mapping techniques can effectively enhance spatial awareness and navigation skills. The study also underscores the necessity of understanding the emotional and psychological effects of urban environments on visually impaired individuals, particularly concerning safety and the anxiety levels provoked by traffic and noise.