The Europe and Asia Pacific wheelchairs and mobility aids market size is projected to reach US$ 15.24 billion by 2031 from US$ 8.09 billion in 2023. The market is expected to register a CAGR of 7.0% during 2023–2031.
Advanced AI-integrated mobility devices, such as foldable wheelchairs and electric scooters help in improving the transportation accessibility for end users. According to Nvidia Corporation, the autonomous wheelchair developed by the Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences in Coimbatore, located in India, focuses on improving mobility for patients with disabilities by employing the Nvidia Corporation Jetson platform for edge AI and robotics. The newly constructed autonomous motorized wheelchair has USB cameras, depth sensors, and lidar sensors, enabling the detection of its surroundings and mapping a clear path to the user's destination. The Nvidia Corporation Jetson Nano Developer Kit processes the data obtained from cameras and sensors in real time. The Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences focuses on identifying environmental impediments using computer vision models based on deep learning.
This advancement enhances user experience and reduces the risk of pressure sores and other issues associated with prolonged use. Thus, technological advancements have the lucrative potential to transform the wheelchair and mobility aids market through significant research and development and the launch of user-friendly accessible devices, allowing market players to cater to a broader range of patients or individuals with mobility impairments.
The development of lightweight and compact mobility devices is a significant trend in the wheelchair and mobility aids market. These devices are designed in a way to aid easy movements, and can be folded or disassembled for convenient storage and travel. For instance, in March 2023, Golden Technologies launched new lightweight foldable power wheelchairs, the GP301 Stride aluminum folding power wheelchair and the GP302 Cricket carbon fiber folding power wheelchair. The company extended its current line of mobility devices with these launches. The Stride and Cricket are portable, lightweight, and fashionable. Furthermore, the compact design makes them user-friendly, and it is easier to move and navigate through tight spaces, beneficial for individuals who live in urban environments or have limited residential space.
Some lightweight mobility aids now feature GPS tracking capabilities, allowing users to locate their devices if misplaced or stolen. Additionally, remote control capabilities and connectivity to mobile applications provide individuals with greater control and customization options in mobility aids.
Manufacturers continuously explore new options for materials and designs to improve comfort and ergonomics, in turn enhancing the user experience as well as reducing the risk of pressure infections and other complications associated with its prolonged use. The advanced cushioning materials, adjustable seating options, and ergonomic handlebars or grips improve the design and comfort. Lightweight, compact, and technologically advanced devices hold significant prospects in the wheelchair and mobility aids market as they provide accessibility, convenience, and quality of life for mobility-impaired patients
Based on end user, the Europe and Asia Pacific wheelchairs and mobility aids market is segmented into Homecare, Hospitals and Clinics, Rehabilitation Centers, and Ambulatory Surgical Centers. The Homecare segment held the largest share in the Europe and Asia Pacific wheelchairs and mobility aids market in 2023 and is expected to register the highest CAGR in the market during 2023–2031. The increasing prevalence of conditions such as muscle injuries, spinal cord injuries, and muscular dystrophy is likely to boost the growth of the market for the homecare segment. In addition, the burgeoning cases of age-related conditions such as orthopedic conditions support the growth of the market for the homecare segment.
United Nation Department of Economic and Social Affairs, World Health Organization, Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention, Food and Drug Administration, and European Center for Disease Prevention and Control are among the primary and secondary sources referred to while preparing the Europe and Asia Pacific wheelchairs and mobility aids market report.