Any person living with ALS (pALS) or their caregiver can tell you how frustrating it is to lose the ability to do things that were previously mindless activities. Turning on lights, adjusting the thermostat, unlocking a door for a guest, and countless other activities become frustrating or even impossible without assistance from a caregiver.
Team Gleason wants people living with ALS to remain as independent as possible no matter where they are in their progression.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the process for acquiring home automation technology from Team Gleason?
A: Fill out the application. A member of our team will get in touch to discuss further details. Once you receive all of your equipment, you will need to hire an electrician to install the equipment (light switches, thermostat, etc.).
In addition to a pALS using Axial from their communication device, can a caretaker also use Axial from their cell phone to control lights, thermostat, etc?
A: Yes! The Axial app is available for download on both iOS and Android.
For iOS/Apple see: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/axial-control/id408084651?mt=8
For Android see: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mls.incontrol.home.automation
Do I need an internet connection to control my equipment like lights, thermostat, etc?
A: You will need an internet connection to download, install, and activate Axial Control on a Windows based computer. The equipment that Team Gleason currently provides utilizes Z-Wave Plus technology, and after Axial Control is installed, it does not require an internet connection. This means that pALS will still be able to control their lights, thermostats, etc, even if they do not have a Wi-Fi connection. The Axial Control app is available on iPhone and Android, but If there is no internet connection, then an iPhone or Android device will not be able to control the system.
Is Axial Control compatible with Alexa?
A: Yes! You will need to enable the Axial Control skill. See: https://www.amazon.com/InControl-Home-Automation-Axial-Control/dp/B01N0X9GD7
Does my communication device need to be unlocked to use Axial Control?
A: Yes. Axial Control is a Windows program. In order for Axial Control to be installed on a speech-generating device, the device needs to be unlocked for Windows access. Speech-generating devices can be unlocked with a code from the respective manufacturer for a fee which usually ranges from $25-$49. Contact your respective speech-generating device manufacturer for more info.
What automation equipment does Team Gleason currently provide?
How much automation equipment will Team Gleason provide me?
A: Each automation package is customized to the individual’s specific needs. As Team Gleason is a non-profit organization with limited resources, we are unable to provide automation equipment for an entire house, but generally the room(s) or area(s) the end user occupies the most.
Does Team Gleason provide automation equipment for people with ALS living in nursing homes or facilities?
A: Team Gleason is not able to provide automation equipment for individuals living with ALS who reside in a nursing home or facility.
Does Axial provide technical support for people living with ALS and/or their caretakers?
A: Yes. Axial Control technical support is available from Monday-Friday from 10 A.M. to 5 P.M. CST. Please make arrangements for phone support via email at support@axialcontrol.com. Please allow up to one business day for a response from Axial Control.
