Although employers are generally required to provide accommodations only to qualified employees (that is, those who can work), and Social Security disability benefits are available only to those who are incapable of substantial gainful employment (that is, those who can’t work), the Supreme Court has ruled that applying for Social Security benefits does not automatically exclude you from the protection of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Family Benefits
If you receive Social Security disability or retirement benefits, the following members of your family may also receive benefits:

your spouse, if

the spouse is at least 62 years of age, or
caring for a child under age 16, or
caring for a disabled child who receives Social Security benefits

your divorced spouse, if

the marriage lasted at least 10 [...]

In a nutshell
Social Security offers benefits for the retired, the disabled, and members of their families. Disability benefits include both Social Security Disability Insurance Benefits (DIB) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
Social Security Disability Insurance

Social Security Disability Insurance Benefits (DIB) are based on Social Security (payroll) taxes, so to qualify, you must have accumulated “credits” [...]

The disability appeals hearing backlog

When you become disabled, you probably have a lot of things on your mind. If you can’t work, you’re wondering how you can possibly restore your income so you can receive medical treatment and get back to work. So, you apply for disability benefits. Then what happens?

About 40% [...]