Washington State University's Steve Gleason Institute for Neuroscience will open its adaptive technology center to the public , by appointment, Monday, Oct. 4.

Representatives of WSU, Providence Health & Services, and the Gleason Institute revealed the adaptive technology center, at 325 E. Sprague, to members of the media on Sept. 29.

Daryll DeWald, WSU Health Sciences vice president and chancellor, says the technology center will allow those who have neurodegenerative diseases and their families to learn about and explore technologies available to them.

Neurodegenerative diseases are incurable, typically progressively debilitating diseases that affect nerve cells, resulting in loss of motor function and coordination. 

The center features home-automation devices controlled either by voice or by eye gaze technology in a homelike setting. Visitors to the center can try out a wheelchair simulator controlled by eye gaze, test an accessible video gaming setup, and record their voice in a voice bank for future use. 

Those wishing to schedule an appointment at the adaptive technology center can call 509-368-6591 or email gleason.institute@wsu.edu.