The Facts on Paper Map Reading: How Age Affects Navigation at Live Events

There are some statistics on paper map reading ability by age. According to a study conducted by the Royal Institute of Navigation in the UK, younger people are less likely to have developed paper map reading skills than older generations.

The study found that 94% of those over the age of 55 could read a paper map, compared to only 20% of those aged 18-24. Only 18% of 18-24 year-olds could read a landscape map, compared to 61% of those over 55. 73% of those over 55 could use a compass, compared to only 38% of those aged 18-24.

These statistics suggest that younger generations are less likely to have developed the skills needed to read paper maps, possibly due to the widespread adoption of digital mapping technology.

Event organisers all around the world are combatting this growing issue by choosing to develop event apps with mapping capabilities which is why the low cost route of choosing Gyder has become the way to go for many organisations.