Sky Harbor has now become dementia friendly as part of Phoenix’s initiative to become a dementia friendly city. 

The Sky Harbor Compassion Cacti program helps people with hidden disabilities have a smooth airport experience. Misty Cisneros-Contreras is the customer service Manager for Sky Harbor International Airport. 

"The Compassion Cacti lanyard program is basically an identifier for those individuals who feel as though they believe that they have a hidden disability. They can identify themselves as someone who needs a little more assistance in the airport," said Cisneros-Contreras.

What the lanyard does is tell airport staff that the traveler has a hidden disability and will assist them with care and patience. Cisneros-Contreras says anyone who is traveling with dementia or a caregiver of someone with dementia can apply for the lanyard program to have extra assistance in the airport. 

Sky Harbor recognizes that the airport can be overwhelming and decided to implement this program because the company wants to continue to offer resources to make sure travelers that need a little extra help have a successful experience.