Abilities Expo Review

Last year, I had the opportunity to attend the Abilities Expo in the Chicagoland area (Shaumberg, Illinois). This event brought together a wide variety of organizations and vendors with one common goal. Each serves those of us with some form of physical challenge who need accommodation to reach our full potential and enjoyment in life. Admission to the Abilities Expo was free.

Many of the booths represented vendors. Some of the types of products and services represented included: daily living aids; assistive technology; accommodations for the accessibility in the home; home medical equipment; education related; publications; durable medical equipment; personal care; rehabilitative care services; wheelchairs, scooters, and related accessories; walkers and accessories; sports equipment; legal services; and accessible travel. Many nonprofit organizations were represented as well, including organizations that provide services and medical equipment, advocacy, and adaptive sports activities to those with disability.

There were also a variety of free workshops available to attendees. For example, I attended a workshop called “Travel Made Easy: Tips for People with Disabilities.” This informative workshop was presented by Jani Nayar of the Society for Accessible Travel (SATH). Available workshops included workshops on selecting the proper vehicle, preparing for emergencies, making accommodations to one’s home, recreation and exercise, treatment, and financial planning.

During the Abilities Expo, there were also many events, activities, and demonstrations. Some of these included: demonstrations about assistive dogs; various sports such as billiards, wheelchair sports, and table tennis; exercise, dance and fitness activities; and entertainment such as music, crafts, comedy, book signings, and face-painting. These exciting demonstrations were designed to be family friendly and interest children as well as adults.

The show floor covered a large area, and represented some degree of challenge for those of us who walk but fatigue quickly. There were, however, motorized scooters available to borrow at no cost. I did sometimes find it difficult to carry on a conversation due to the noise level. All of the vendor and organization booths, demonstrations, events, activities, and workshops were conducted in one large convention hall. Those with hearing difficulties may find conversation or following workshop presenters to be particularly challenging.

The Abilities Expo organization holds events across the U.S.A. at various times across the year. During 2012, the Abilities Expo will be in the following cities on the listed dates: Atlanta on February 17 through 19, 2012; Los Angeles on March 30 through April 1, 2012; New York Metro on March 4 through 6, 2012; Chicago on June 29 through July 1, 2012; Houston on August 3-5, 2012; and San Jose, November 16 through 18, 2012.

Admission to the Abilities Expo remains free, and gave me the opportunity to learn about the many products, services, and non-profit organizations that serve those with physical challenges, including those with neuromuscular disease. I highly recommend attending one of these entertaining and informational expositions if one comes to your area.

Resources:

Abilities Expo website (n.d.). http://www.abilitiesexpo.com/ . Retrieved 8/28/10.

Disclosure Statement: Admission to the Abilities Expo is free. I attended for free as a member of the public.