The Akron Zoo is certified in Dementia Friends through Dementia Friendly Summit County. Through this, the Akron Zoo staff has received education on dementia and memory loss diagnoses and the team is working to provide a dementia-inclusive lens in all planning. The Akron Zoo is committed to ensure that those living with memory loss and their care partners are welcomed and engaged here at the zoo.
Check out below for some resources here at the Akron Zoo and in our community.
Guest Comfort Station
NEW in 2026!
Our new Guest Comfort Station is available in the Komodo Kingdom Education Center, near the exit of Curious Creatures. This room is available for nursing mothers, guests experiencing sensory overload or anyone who needs a break during their visit. The space features sound-dampening walls, dimmable lights, comfortable furniture and more.
The Guest Comfort Station is supported by:
Universal Changing Table
A universal changing table is available for use in the restrooms in Pride of Africa. This table is fixed to the wall. It's 62 inches long and can accommodate up to 400 pounds.
Social Story
Click here for more information on the social story to assist with planning your zoo visit.
Akron Zoo AAC
The Akron Zoo Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) board is available for guests who are non-verbal, minimally speaking or language learning to use as a tool to communicate with Akron Zoo staff members and other guests.
The AAC board was designed specifically for the Akron Zoo by Inspire Connections Therapy and includes our animals, areas in the park and frequently asked questions. Guests using an AAC will be able to point to the icons in order to communicate with others.
Guests can access the AAC free of charge in a couple different ways:
- Request your own copy of the AAC board at our ticket counter. The paper copy is yours to keep!
- An AAC board will be available in every sensory bag. These copies are available for use during your visit, but must remain with the bag when you return it.
- Pull up a copy of the AAC board by clicking the button below. You can use on your phone or tablet, or you can print it yourself at home.
Download the Akron Zoo AAC here:
Additional Resources
For more resources, check out our friends at Akron-Summit County Public Library!