New Products Make Life Easier for Those with Disabilities

ATLANTA - About one in five Americans have some kind of disability. And 9 million have a disability so severe, it requires personal assistance to carry out everyday activities. But there are new products that are helping millions live a more active life.

Having a disability is the great equalizer. It does not respect age, race or gender, and it affects more people than you might think. But as the population of disabled Americans grows so does the innovation.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, about 53 million Americans have a disability.

Mark Johnson, who experienced a diving accident in college, is one of them. And he says the toughest part of being a quadriplegic is not being in a wheelchair, its dealing with public attitudes.

"All of us take stuff for granted, but then all of sudden you're faced with the only way to get it done is to do it differently. But the public has a hard time embracing that," said Mark Johnson of Ability Expo.

People living with disabilities say there has always been a misconception about those who, because of a physical handicap, must live their lives differently. A recent Abilities Expo in the city was an opportunity for those living with a disability to see what products are available to make their lives easier.

Kristina Rhodes is not only a business woman, she's also a model and has a clothing line.

"I need the back of my pants to come up higher because I'm always sitting down," said Kristina Rhodes of Lega Wear.

Those having to adapt their lifestyle have a number of new products to help them live an active life.

A modified truck has been designed to accommodate a wheelchair on the driver's side.

And a motorcycle can be driven by a wheelchair bound rider.

And disability advocates say even wheelchairs themselves have come a long way. They can now be custom built to the lifestyle and personality of their owner.

But disablitiy advocates say there is still a long way to go. Employment still remains low and advocates say being able to live independently is still a struggle.

"Who doesn't want to stay at home? Right? People want to stay at home they want to age in place. So that means coming out of those facilities and start providing you that support at home," said Johnson.

More than 77 percent of Americans with disabilities does not receive public assistance.