County Executive Melissa Agard Highlights Dementia-Friendly Amenities at Dane County Regional Airport in Honor of Alzheimer’s Awareness Month
November 18, 2025
execmedia@danecounty.gov, 608-800-1127
County Executive, Airport
DANE COUNTY — On Monday, County Executive Melissa Agard joined Airport Director Mark Papko and Dane County Human Services Director John Schlueter to highlight dementia-friendly amenities at the Dane County Regional Airport, advancing the county’s ongoing work to support residents and families affected by Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
Earlier this month, County Executive Agard declared November 2025 as Alzheimer’s Awareness Month in Dane County, joining communities nationwide in recognizing the more than 120,000 Wisconsinites living with dementia and the caregivers who support them.
“Dementia doesn’t pause when someone needs to travel,” said County Executive Melissa Agard. “These improvements ensure our airport is a place where every traveler feels respected, supported, and welcomed. This work reflects the compassion and dignity at the heart of Dane County.”
New and expanded amenities designed to support travelers with dementia at the Dane County Regional Airport include:
- Improved wayfinding with clear icons, high contrast, and simplified signage
- Quiet rooms and low-stimulus areas for travelers needing a break
- Specialized staff training to better assist travelers with cognitive impairment
- Streamlined design elements to reduce confusion and enhance comfort
- Enhanced customer assistance services throughout the terminal
“At Dane County Regional Airport, our goal is simple: every traveler should feel confident, comfortable, and welcome the moment they arrive,” said Airport Executive Director Mark Papko. “Air travel should work for everyone. If someone struggles with memory, mobility, or sensory over-stimulation, we want to remove barriers to travel, not create them.”
“Dane County has long been committed to building a dementia-friendly community,” said Human Services Director John Schlueter. “Through training, awareness, and thoughtful design, we’re equipping our community to respond with greater confidence, understanding, and compassion. These airport improvements help create a county where people living with dementia and their families feel safe, supported, and valued.”
Following the press event, airport staff led a tour for local media to see these amenities firsthand.