Powered Wheelchair Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Category (Adult, Pediatric), By End-use (Hospitals, Homecare), By Portability (Standalone, Portable), By Product, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2024 - 2030

Powered Wheelchair Market Size & Trends

The global powered wheelchair market size was estimated at USD 2.01 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.9% from 2024 to 2030. A powered wheelchair, also referred to as an electric wheelchair or motorized wheelchair, is a mobility device designed for individuals who find it challenging to walk due to health conditions, accidents, or other medical complications. Unlike manual wheelchairs that necessitate physical strength for movement and direction, powered wheelchairs utilize electric motors. This enables users to manage their motion through a joystick or a similar control system. The growing elderly population and rising cases of injuries requiring mobility support are key contributors to the expansion of this market.

The stringent lockdowns during the early stages of the pandemic led to a halt in manufacturing operations across several countries, causing a minor dip in electric wheelchair market growth. However, a rise in admissions of elderly COVID-19 patients ensured a steady product demand in hospitals. The anticipated demand increase in the future is attributed to the high prevalence of chronic illnesses, the growing population, and increasing risk of developing lifestyle diseases, such as obesity, among a significant portion of the population. Moreover, easy product access in several countries is a significant factor in market expansion. For example, in Asia, Singapore is recognized for its commitment to accessibility.

As per a study by the World Economic Forum, Singapore, with its specially designed buses and lifts across all public transport systems, has the best infrastructure for wheelchair users. The United Arab Emirates is another country making substantial strides in accessible travel. The UAE has invested heavily to ensure that individuals with disabilities can move freely throughout the country, offering complimentary passes on public transport and reserved parking spots for disabled drivers. The country also supports various events and initiatives aimed at increasing awareness about accessibility and inclusivity issues.

In addition, the ongoing technological advancements, in terms of product design, are anticipated to fuel future sales in the market. The introduction of battery-powered wheelchairs is expected to offer enhanced assistance to users. Moreover, design improvements now enable wheelchairs to store and link the device with the patient’s medical records, and even monitor the user’s health. For instance, in March 2020, Invacare Corporation introduced the AVIVA FX Power Wheelchair. This wheelchair incorporates a mix of new technologies to provide superior comfort and is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

Market Characteristics & Concentration

The shift toward providing care at home or bedside is fueling the creation of wheelchairs with advanced therapeutic, diagnostic, display, and monitoring tools while being more adaptable, accurate, and compact. These systems represent a consumer-centric approach to healthcare, which encourages the adoption of innovations, such as personalized wearable devices, digital patient records, and systems connected to the internet wirelessly. All these technologies are expected to provide smart, user-friendly, and convenient healthcare services at home. Several market players are focused on this progress

Numerous merger and acquisition activities are being observed among top product manufacturers, aimed at broadening their footprint in the country. For example, in June 2020, GF Health Products, Inc. declared its acquisition of Gendron, Inc., a prominent designer and producer of mobile patient management systems. This acquisition is set to aid the company in extending its operations in the U.S. In February 2020, Numotion announced a strategic alliance with NOW Technologies, a firm that develops advanced power wheelchair control systems

Efforts by the government to enhance financial support for patients in need of long-term care are anticipated to bolster the growth of this market. For example, in the U.S., several initiatives have been introduced to aid people with disabilities, which is predicted to stimulate market expansion. The U.S. government, for instance, has started several programs to help people who have disabilities, and this is likely to drive the market’s growth

The market is poised for expansion, driven by advancements in products and a surge in demand for electric wheelchairs, which will subsequently enhance sales. Dominant entities such as Invacare Corporation, Permobil, and Sunrise Medical hold most of the revenue share. Furthermore, Sunrise Medical has been making significant strides and increasing its market share

The growth of the market is significantly driven by regional expansion. Though strict safety and accessibility standards can pose challenges to market penetration and expansion in certain areas, market acceptance is increased by varying cultural perceptions of disability and accessibility. Market accessibility and adoption can be affected by policies that govern insurance coverage and compensation for motorized wheelchairs. In different countries, the presence of wheelchair-friendly infrastructure, such as ramps and lifts, is vital for the broad acceptance of motorized wheelchairs. This can fuel the electric wheelchair market growth for companies to expand to different regions

Age Category Insights

The adults segment dominated the market with a share of 86.3% in 2023. This segment is expected to grow with the fastest CAGR during the forecast period. With the aging global population, the prevalence of mobility-related challenges increases. A significant portion of the elderly population struggles with walking due to conditions associated with aging, such as arthritis, osteoporosis, and diminished muscle strength. Chronic health conditions like multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, spinal cord injuries, and cerebral palsy often necessitate the use of mobility aids, including wheelchairs, as these conditions can hinder walking abilities.

The pediatrics segment is projected to witness substantial growth due to the increasing prevalence of childhood disorders like cerebral palsy, which is among the most common movement disorders necessitating the use of wheelchairs. As per the Cerebral Palsy Guidance, each year, over 10,000 infants in the U.S. are diagnosed with this disorder. It is the most frequently diagnosed movement disability in children. Therefore, the pediatric sector is anticipated to be a significant source of revenue for manufacturers of powered wheelchairs in the coming years.

Product Insight

The mid-wheel drive segment dominated the market with the highest revenue share of 43.0% in 2023 as a result of high demand owing to its stability and maneuverability. This is attributed to factors, such as a smaller turning radius, lighter front tires, ease of maneuvering in narrow spaces, and superior stability. Mid-wheel drives feature a central positioning of the wheels, allowing for a smaller turning radius and easier navigation through confined areas. This capability is especially beneficial for users navigating indoor environments, such as homes and offices, as well as outdoor locations with obstacles like sidewalks and doorways. Consequently, the mid-wheel drive segment has garnered a substantial portion of the overall electric wheelchair market share, reflecting its suitability for meeting the diverse mobility requirements of consumers.

The front-wheel drive segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR from 2024 to 2030. Their design allows them to handle tight spaces and execute sharp turns, a feature that is particularly useful in indoor settings. They also provide a good level of stability, which is a crucial safety feature for users, especially those with medical conditions that could compromise their balance. Compared to other types, front-wheel drive wheelchairs are generally simpler to operate. This ease of use makes them a favored choice among users who may have limited physical strength or dexterity. The rise of smart wheelchairs and other technological advancements in the industry have further boosted the popularity of front-wheel drive wheelchairs.

Portability Insights

The standalone wheelchair segment led the market with a share of 84.4% in 2023. Standalone powered wheelchairs are a remarkable innovation in mobility aids, designed to cater to individuals with significant mobility limitations. Unlike conventional wheelchairs, these are generally more robust and come equipped with a plethora of features, making them an ideal choice for those who heavily rely on such aids for their daily mobility. Moreover, these wheelchairs are feature-rich, often including elements, such as adjustable seats, customizable controls, and even health monitoring systems. These features not only enhance the user’s comfort but also contribute to their overall well-being.

The portable wheelchair segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period. Portable powered wheelchairs are designed to be compact and lightweight, making them easy to transport. They are typically used by individuals who have some mobility but need a wheelchair for longer distances or when venturing outside their homes. These wheelchairs come with several advantages, including travel-friendly features, lightweight construction, and compact storage. Therefore, portable powered wheelchairs serve as a comprehensive mobility solution, significantly improving the quality of life for those with severe mobility restrictions.

End-use Insights

The homecare segment accounted for the highest revenue share of over 70% in 2023. Adoption of homecare is growing globally, mainly due to rising geriatric population. Wheelchairs provide a safer alternative to using furniture or other makeshift solutions to move around at home. They are designed to provide stability and reduce the risk of falls.Individuals with chronic health conditions that affect mobility, such as multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, and spinal cord injuries, often use wheelchairs to facilitate daily activities at home. According to EveryDayHealth, 90% of American individuals above the age of 65 prefer staying at home for care. According to an article published in CNBC in 2018, the demand for homecare staff has significantly increased in the country, indicating that the American population is increasingly opting for homecare devices and treatments.

The ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs) segment will have substantial growth over the forecast period due to the increasing number of outpatient surgeries, which offer several benefits, such as shorter hospital stays and cost-effectiveness. ASCs are medical facilities that perform minor surgical operations. The number of these centers is on the rise in both developed and developing nations, as they help alleviate the load on hospitals and doctors’ clinics. The primary focus of these centers is to cater to surgical procedures or emergencies exclusively. They do not offer diagnostic services or emergency care. In the U.S., there are approximately 9,280 operational ASCs, with California hosting the most centers (1,213) nationwide. Among the total ACSs, about 60% are certified by Medicare.

Regional Insights

The powered wheelchair market in North America dominated the global industry and accounted for a share of 47.8% in 2023. The evolving sociodemographic landscape in North America is expected to further boost the demand for mobility aids. Factors, such as a rise in the number of disabled individuals joining the workforce, an increase in birth defects & disabilities among children, and the introduction of laws to enable individuals with disabilities to lead a normal life & maintain social status, are expected to contribute to regional market growth. In 2020, North America contributed 40.9% of Invacare’s total global sales, indicating the region’s growth potential.

U.S. Powered Wheelchair Market Trends

The U.S. powered wheelchair market held a share of 91.3% in 2023 and is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 7.2% during the forecast period. This can be attributed to an increase in the number of wheelchair users and advancements in technology. The market is further propelled by the presence of numerous players in the region. As per the CDC, the country is home to over 61 million people living with disabilities, with the South U.S. having the highest proportion. Of the total disabled population, more than 13.7% face mobility challenges, suggesting a potential growth in the wheelchair market in the coming years. The local presence of major players such as Invacare, Numotion, Medline, and Carex Health is expected to further drive the market’s expansion.

Europe Powered Wheelchair Market Trends

The powered wheelchair market in Europe held the second-largest revenue share in 2023.The market is being driven by factors, such as a growing geriatric population and a rise in conditions that necessitate mobility aids, such as spinal cord injuries. While the market is still in its early stages, in terms of availability and acceptance, it is anticipated to grow in the future due to increasing consumer knowledge and favorable government policies. Urban areas, compared to rural ones, have seen a substantial increase in the elderly population due to improved healthcare facilities. As the population ages, more individuals are likely to face mobility issues, increasing the demand for wheelchairs. In addition, advancements in wheelchair technology and heightened awareness of sophisticated products are expected to propel market growth.

The Germany powered wheelchair market held a revenue share of 33.11% in 2023. Germany is recognized as one of the world’s most aged societies, with the population of individuals aged 65 years and above projected to constitute approximately one-third of the total population by 2050. The country is at the forefront of utilizing digital technology to promote a healthier and more active lifestyle among the elderly, and the government has implemented programs to help seniors acquire basic tech skills. In 2019, Germany had an estimated 7.9 million individuals with severe disabilities, representing 9.5% of the overall population. Men slightly outnumbered women, accounting for 50.4% of the severely disabled population, while women represented 49.6%. Therefore, the increasing elderly population, the presence of physically disabled individuals, and technological advancements in powered wheelchair design are expected to drive the market in Germany.

The powered wheelchair market in the UK held the second-largest share in 2023 due to the high geriatric population and a rise in the number of individuals with physical disabilities. The UK is home to over 11 million disabled individuals, who make up 45% of the country’s disabled population, compared to 16% of working adults and 6% of children. An estimated 1.2 million people in the UK use wheelchairs, with most users being over 60 years old, representing over two-thirds of all wheelchair users in the country. The UK’s public health system includes reimbursement policies for disabled and elderly citizens. Furthermore, the government has implemented measures like the Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) to construct ramps, acquire heating systems, and provide financial aid for equipment and assistive devices for the disabled.

The France powered wheelchair market is anticipated to witness a CAGR of 7.7% during the forecast period. In France, for every 10,000 individuals, 62 are wheelchair users. These individuals typically face multiple limitations and/or impairments. The average age of these wheelchair users is 70 years, and 64% of them are women. According to a report, the use of wheelchairs is not related to gender and decreases slightly with age. However, wheelchair use is associated with factors, such as the severity of impairments and disabilities, confinement, exposure to environmental risks, and life in institutions.The French government has initiated several measures to enhance the employment rate and allowance for disabled individuals, aiming to raise it to 900 Euros by the end of 2019. As per French disability law, any company in France with more than 20 employees is mandated to employ at least 6% of workers with disabilities. Furthermore, the rising number of road accidents in the country is a significant factor contributing to the growth of the wheelchair market during the forecast period.

Asia Pacific Powered Wheelchair Market Trends

The powered wheelchair market in Asia Pacific is projected to register the fastest CAGR of 7.5% during the forecast period. In this region, wheelchairs are the predominant mobility aid. The demand for these devices is fueled by the rising target population. In addition, the prevalence of chronic illnesses and high frequency of road accidents are contributing to market growth. As per the WHO data from 2023, between 20 and 50 million people sustain non-lethal injuries, with a significant number resulting in disabilities.

The China Powered wheelchair market held the largest revenue share of 31.27% in 2023. China is home to a significant elderly population of over 254 million. The country also has over 85 million disabled individuals, with 20 million of them depending on temporary aids for disability. This substantial and growing number of senior citizens and disabled individuals has led to an increased demand for wheelchairs. The market growth in China can be attributed to the rising instances of accidental injuries. According to the WHO, the leading factor diminishing life expectancy in China is mortality due to urban injuries.

The powered wheelchair market in Japan held the second-largest market share in the Asia Pacific region. Elderly individuals, particularly in countries like Japan, represent a significant demographic. Japan’s health ministry reports that over 7% of the population, or 9.36 million people, have been identified with some form of disability. The Commonwealth Fund indicates that Japan’s statutory health insurance system (SHIS) has plans to include durable medical equipment, such as oxygen therapy devices, prescribed by doctors in their coverage. Government subsidies are available to individuals with disabilities who need other devices like hearing aids or powered wheelchairs, helping to offset the cost. These subsidies are primarily aimed at low-income households and alleviate the cost-sharing burden for individuals with disabilities, mental health conditions, and certain chronic diseases.

The India powered wheelchair market is expected to be the fastest-growing regional market with a CAGR of 8.3% during the forecast period, fueled by the increasing need for a secure and convenient method of patient mobility in hospitals and homecare environments. The enhancement of healthcare facilities, coupled with a substantial elderly population, are key factors anticipated to propel market growth.

Latin America Powered Wheelchair Market Trends

The powered wheelchair market in Latin America is expected to witness lucrative growth during the forecast period. The market is anticipated to grow due to factors such as increased life expectancy, heightened awareness of home healthcare services, a growing incidence of disabilities, and a surge in demand for long-term care medical devices. Furthermore, the economic activities in this region are largely influenced by Brazil. The average lifespan in this region is said to exceed 75 years.

The Brazil powered wheelchair market dominated the Latin America regional market with the largest revenue share of 28.88% in 2023 due to the country’s increasing healthcare spending. The growing number of disabled individuals nationwide is also driving demand. For instance, more than 16 million people in Brazil are living with disabilities. In addition, the market growth in Brazil can be attributed to the increasing instances of accidental injuries.

Middle East & Africa Powered Wheelchair Market Trends

The powered wheelchair market in MEA is expected to grow at a lucrative growth from 2024 to 2030. This region is one of the significant developing markets for medical devices. The expanding population and intensified efforts by governments to enhance healthcare accessibility are anticipated to draw the attention of international medical device companies interested in penetrating this market. The market could see growth over the forecast period due to factors such as increased healthcare spending, an aging population, and a rise in disability cases.

The South Africa powered wheelchair market held the largest revenue share of 26.1% in 2023. Globally, around 15% of the population, or over a billion people, live with a disability, a number expected to double by 2050. Most disabled individuals, about 80%, live in developing countries, with Africa housing 60-80 million. Disabled individuals constitute 10% of Africa’s population, potentially rising to 20% in poorer regions. Disabled children’s school attendance is estimated at 5-10%. The South African Department of Health has been criticized by the National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD) for its ineffective wheelchair provision. Despite the NCPD’s advocacy, the persistent wheelchair shortage remains unresolved.

Key Powered Wheelchair Company Insights

Leading companies are enhancing their offerings and incorporating new technologies to expand their customer reach, secure a greater market share, and diversify their product range. For example, Sunrise launched two new electric wheelchairs in early May 2022: the Quickie Q200 R for adults and the Zippie Mini for children. In addition, Invacare Corporation unveiled the Invacare AVIVA STORM RX power wheelchair in 2021, setting a new standard for rear-wheel drive power mobility.

Recent Developments

• In October 2023, Sunrise Medical, a global pioneer in cutting-edge mobility aids, declared its strategic takeover of Ride Designs, a distinguished market leader known for its high-quality custom seating systems for wheelchair users. This takeover signifies a substantial growth in Sunrise Medical’s custom seating portfolio, clinical proficiency, and service competencies, seamlessly enhancing the broad spectrum of manual and electric mobility products already provided by Sunrise Medical

• In October 2023, Numotion introduced SpinKids, a distinctive platform under SpinLife, specifically designed for children. This unique initiative is aimed at addressing the mobility and equipment requirements of pediatric users. It provides a tailored shopping experience exclusively for children and their parents, ensuring they have access to the necessary mobility aids and equipment. The launch of SpinKids signifies Numotion’s commitment to enhancing the lives of children with mobility challenges, by offering products and services that cater specifically to their needs

• In August 2022, Invacare Corporation announced a collaboration with Azurite Management LLC, its principal shareholder. Azurite currently holds about 10.3% of Invacare’s outstanding shares as of June 30, 2022

Powered Wheelchair Market Report Scope

Global Powered Wheelchair Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth at global, regional, and country levels and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends in each of the sub-segments from 2018 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the global powered wheelchair market report based on age category, product, portability, end-use, and region:

• Age Category Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Adult

  • Pediatric

• Product Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Front-wheel Drive

  • Mid-wheel Drive

  • Rear-wheel Drive

  • Others

• Portability Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Standalone

  • Portable

• End-use Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Homecare

  • Hospitals

  • Ambulatory Surgical Centers

  • Rehabilitation Centers

• Regional Outlook (Revenue in USD Billion 2018 - 2030)

  • North America

    • U.S.

    • Canada

  • Europe

    • UK

    • Germany

    • France

    • Italy

    • Spain

    • Denmark

    • Sweden

    • Norway

  • Asia Pacific

    • Japan

    • China

    • India

    • Australia

    • South Korea

    • Thailand

  • Latin America

    • Brazil

    • Mexico

    • Argentina

  • Middle East & Africa

    • Saudi Arabia

    • South Africa

    • UAE

    • Kuwait