The future is here?
Check out http://news.softpedia.com/news/Cyborg-Type-Robot-Expands-Physical-Capabilities-101366.shtml for an article on what the future might look like for some people with disabilities related to mobility:
"The Japanese manufacturer of the full-body robotics system says that HAL (Hybrid Assistive Limb) is a platform designed to boost the strength of the wearer between 2 and 10 times, via the use of incorporated sensors that can detect the electrical impulses the brain sends to the limbs in order to make them move. These impulses are intercepted and analyzed in real time, prompting the device to move with the wearer, thus avoiding the system hindering the person it's assisting. On Cyberdyne's website, the product is advertised as having a voluntary control system, as well as a robotic autonomous control system, which work together to ensure that the exoskeleton takes the largest part of the effort the wearer puts out to move, while at the same time ensuring a smooth, human-like motion, as opposed to the jolted ones that can be felt when using other similar systems. [it] possesses aid devices for both arms and legs, and can even support the lower part of the spinal cord, thus making it a prospect to track over the years. As soon as the technology is perfect, Cyberdyne plans to make it commercially available for accessible fees. It could be used by old or [people with disabilities], and it's said to be able to help them perform daily tasks, such as climbing stairs, walking, standing, lifting and so on."
Read more at the link above!