Global Personal Mobility Devices Market Report

Global Personal Mobility Devices Market is poised for a significant growth, with market size projected to surge from USD 10.92 Billion in 2023 to USD 19.69 Billion by 2032, showcasing a robust Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6.77% during the forecast period.

Personal Mobility Devices Market Size and Forecast 2024 to 2032

The personal mobility devices market encompasses a diverse range of equipment designed to enhance the mobility, independence, and quality of life for individuals with mobility challenges. These devices include wheelchairs, scooters, walkers, canes, and crutches, as well as powered and non-powered mobility aids. The market has gained significant traction in recent years, fuelled by the increasing prevalence of chronic conditions, disabilities, and an aging population worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, over 1 billion people globally experience some form of disability, with many requiring mobility assistances. Furthermore, the United Nations predicts that by 2050, 16% of the global population will be aged 65 or older, underscoring the growing demand for mobility solutions tailored to an aging demographic. In addition, the rise in obesity-related mobility impairments and advancements in assistive technology have contributed to the market's growth. Technological innovation plays a crucial role in reshaping the landscape of personal mobility devices.

Market Dynamics

Personal Mobility Devices Market Drivers

• Rising Incidence of Mobility Impairments: The increasing prevalence of mobility-related health conditions, including arthritis, spinal cord injuries, and neurological disorders, is driving demand for personal mobility devices. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that arthritis affects over 58 million adults in the United States, many of whom experience severe mobility limitations. Similarly, the World Health Organization highlights that approximately 15% of the global population lives with disabilities requiring assistive devices. This growing demographic underscores the critical need for innovative mobility solutions tailored to diverse user requirements.
• Advancements in Assistive Technology: Technological innovation has significantly enhanced the functionality and appeal of personal mobility devices. Modern advancements include AI-enabled wheelchairs, sensor-based walkers, and lightweight, foldable designs that offer increased comfort and independence. For instance, a National Institute on Aging report highlights that sensor technologies integrated into mobility aids are improving safety and usability for elderly individuals. Such developments are expanding the market by addressing the unique needs of aging populations and individuals with mobility impairments.
• Increasing Healthcare Expenditure: Rising global healthcare spending is enabling improved access to personal mobility devices, especially in developed economies. According to the World Bank, global healthcare expenditure accounted for approximately 10% of the GDP in 2021. This investment ensures better availability and affordability of advanced mobility aids, particularly for the elderly and disabled populations, thereby stimulating market growth.
• Government Support and Reimbursement Policies: Governments worldwide are prioritizing assistive device accessibility through financial support and favourable reimbursement policies. For instance, Medicare in the United States provides coverage for mobility aids such as wheelchairs and scooters, reducing the financial burden on users. The World Health Organization’s Global Cooperation on Assistive Technology also underscores the importance of international frameworks that promote equitable access to mobility devices, further accelerating market expansion.
• Urbanization and Smart City Development: The rise of urbanization and the push for smart cities are creating environments where personal mobility devices are increasingly integrated into public infrastructure. According to the United Nations, 68% of the global population is projected to live in urban areas by 2050, necessitating the incorporation of inclusive mobility solutions. Urban planning efforts now emphasize barrier-free infrastructure, making it easier for mobility device users to navigate city spaces and boosting the adoption of such products.

Personal Mobility Devices Market Opportunities

• Emerging Markets Growth Potential: Developing regions, including Asia-Pacific and Africa, offer significant growth opportunities for personal mobility devices due to rising healthcare investments and aging populations. According to the World Bank, healthcare expenditure in low- and middle-income countries has steadily increased, improving access to assistive devices. Additionally, the World Health Organization estimates that 80% of people with disabilities live in these regions, where mobility devices remain underutilized. Expanding manufacturing and distribution networks in these markets could unlock substantial demand.
• Evolving Telemedicine Integration: The integration of telemedicine with mobility devices is transforming patient care by enabling remote monitoring and diagnostics. For instance, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration notes an increase in approvals for AI-enabled wheelchairs that track user health metrics. This opportunity is amplified as telehealth adoption grows; the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reported a 63-fold increase in Medicare telehealth utilization during 2020. These trends highlight a pathway for developing interconnected devices to enhance user experience and healthcare outcomes.
• Focus on Inclusive Design: The shift toward inclusivity in product design is driving innovation in personal mobility devices. The International Disability Alliance emphasizes the importance of designing products that cater to diverse user needs, including children, elderly individuals, and those with complex disabilities. Inclusive designs, such as customizable wheelchairs and ergonomic scooters, address this demand while aligning with global standards for accessibility, creating a significant market opportunity.
• Rising Demand for Sustainable Products: Sustainability initiatives are encouraging the development of eco-friendly personal mobility devices. Governments are increasingly supporting green manufacturing practices, with organizations like the Environmental Protection Agency advocating for reduced carbon footprints in healthcare products. Devices made from recyclable materials or powered by renewable energy sources are gaining traction, particularly among environmentally conscious consumers, creating a niche but expanding market segment.
• Enhanced Digital Connectivity: The growing Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem presents opportunities to embed advanced connectivity features in mobility devices. For instance, Statista projects there will be over 30 billion IoT devices worldwide by 2032, driving innovation in smart mobility aids. Features such as GPS tracking, fall detection, and app-based control enhance convenience and safety for users, offering manufacturers a competitive edge in the market.

Personal Mobility Devices Market Restrain & Challenges

• High Cost of Advanced Devices: The cost of technologically advanced mobility devices remains a significant barrier to widespread adoption. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average price of motorized wheelchairs can exceed $10,000, making them unaffordable for many individuals, particularly in low-income regions. Limited financial assistance and uneven reimbursement policies exacerbate the challenge, restricting access to innovative solutions and slowing market penetration.
• Inadequate Infrastructure for Accessibility: Many regions lack the necessary infrastructure to support the use of personal mobility devices. The United Nations reports that only 28% of countries globally have comprehensive accessibility standards for public infrastructure, limiting the practical usability of such devices. Challenges such as uneven pavements, narrow doorways, and limited public transport accommodations create obstacles for users, hampering demand growth.
• Limited Awareness in Developing Regions: A lack of awareness about the availability and benefits of personal mobility devices continues to hinder market growth in developing countries. The World Health Organization emphasizes that many individuals with disabilities in low-income nations are unaware of assistive technologies or face cultural stigmas that prevent adoption. Educational campaigns and community outreach programs remain limited, posing a challenge for market expansion.
• Regulatory and Compliance Barriers: Stringent regulatory frameworks and lengthy approval processes slow the introduction of new mobility devices. Agencies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration require extensive testing and certifications, which increase development costs and delay market entry. Additionally, variations in global regulatory standards create challenges for manufacturers seeking to expand into international markets.
• Battery and Energy Limitations in Electric Devices: The reliance on battery-powered solutions poses challenges related to durability and charging infrastructure. The International Energy Agency highlights that only 10% of the global population has access to public electric charging stations, which impacts the usability of electric mobility devices. Limited battery life and the high cost of replacement batteries also reduce the attractiveness of these products, particularly in resource-constrained regions.

Current Trends in the Personal Mobility Devices Market

• Adoption of Smart Assistive Devices: The integration of artificial intelligence and IoT technologies is revolutionizing mobility aids, enabling features like voice control, fall detection, and health monitoring. For instance, the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research highlights the growing adoption of AI-powered wheelchairs that adapt to user behaviours. These advancements enhance user independence and safety, driving the demand for intelligent mobility solutions in both healthcare and home settings.
• Customization and Modular Designs: Consumer demand for personalized products has led to the development of modular and customizable mobility devices. The Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America reports increasing interest in adjustable wheelchairs and scooters that accommodate diverse user preferences and medical needs. Customization improves comfort and usability, making mobility aids more appealing and accessible to a broader range of users.
• Increased Focus on Lightweight and Portable Devices: Manufacturers are prioritizing the development of lightweight and foldable devices for ease of transport and storage. The World Health Organization emphasizes that portable mobility solutions significantly benefit active elderly individuals and urban users. Devices made from advanced materials such as carbon fiber are gaining popularity for their durability and reduced weight, aligning with the mobility needs of modern lifestyles.
• Integration of Renewable Energy Solutions: Solar-powered and energy-efficient mobility devices are becoming increasingly viable as sustainability gains prominence. The International Renewable Energy Agency reports a 27% decrease in the cost of solar energy components since 2010, encouraging the adoption of eco-friendly power sources in mobility aids. Solar-powered scooters and wheelchairs are particularly attractive in regions with abundant sunlight, offering a cost-effective and environmentally conscious solution.
• Emergence of 3D Printing in Manufacturing: 3D printing is transforming the production of mobility devices by enabling rapid prototyping and cost-efficient customization. The U.S. Department of Energy highlights that 3D printing reduces material waste by up to 70%, making it an eco-friendly manufacturing option. This technology allows for tailored designs that meet specific user requirements, significantly enhancing product functionality and accessibility.

Segmentation Insights

Personal Mobility Devices Market Analysis, By Product

By Product, the market is divided into wheelchairs, walking aids, scooters, and other products.

• Wheelchairs dominate the personal mobility devices market due to their widespread use among individuals with severe mobility impairments and chronic conditions. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 75 million people globally require wheelchairs, with demand driven by aging populations and an increasing prevalence of disabilities. Wheelchairs are essential for improving the mobility and independence of users, particularly in healthcare settings. Technological advancements, such as powered wheelchairs with AI-based navigation, further enhance their utility. Their pivotal role in addressing both temporary and permanent mobility needs makes them the leading product category in the market.
• Mobility scooters are the fastest-growing segment due to their appeal among active elderly populations and individuals with partial mobility challenges. The U.S. Census Bureau highlights that the elderly population is expected to reach 95 million by 2060, driving demand for user-friendly and stylish mobility options. Scooters offer a balance of comfort, portability, and extended battery life, making them ideal for urban environments. Technological innovations, including lightweight designs and smart connectivity features, are boosting their adoption. Increased availability through online platforms and favourable reimbursement policies in developed nations are further accelerating their growth trajectory, solidifying their position as the fastest-growing product in the market.

Personal Mobility Devices Market Analysis, By End User

By End User, the market is categorized into hospitals and clinics, home care settings, and other.

• Hospitals and clinics represent the largest segment in the personal mobility devices market due to their critical role in acute care and post-surgical rehabilitation. The World Health Organization reports that over 310 million major surgeries are performed globally each year, many requiring mobility aids during recovery. These facilities rely on a wide range of mobility devices, including wheelchairs and walking aids, to ensure patient mobility and safety. The increasing adoption of advanced assistive technologies in healthcare settings further solidifies their dominance, as they are instrumental in improving patient outcomes and facilitating seamless care delivery.
• Home care settings are the fastest-growing segment, driven by the global shift toward personalized and home-based healthcare solutions. According to the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the home healthcare sector has been expanding rapidly, with increased adoption of mobility devices to support aging populations and individuals recovering at home. Factors such as the preference for independent living, technological advancements like foldable mobility scooters, and growing availability through e-commerce platforms are fuelling this growth. The convenience, cost-effectiveness, and alignment with patient-centric care models position home care settings as a key growth area in the market.

Personal Mobility Devices Market Regional Insights

The market has been geographically analysed across five regions: Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa.

• North America holds the largest share of the personal mobility devices market due to its advanced healthcare infrastructure, high disposable income, and growing prevalence of chronic diseases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 61 million adults in the United States live with a disability, many requiring mobility aids. The region's aging population is also a key driver, with the U.S. Census Bureau projecting that individuals aged 65 and older will comprise 21% of the population by 2030. Additionally, government reimbursement policies, such as Medicare coverage for mobility devices, and robust R&D activities by manufacturers further strengthen North America's dominance in the market.
• Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing region, propelled by an expanding aging population, rising disposable incomes, and improving healthcare access. The World Health Organization estimates that by 2050, 1.3 billion people in Asia will be aged 60 or older, significantly increasing the demand for mobility devices. Key countries like China, Japan, and India are driving growth, supported by government initiatives to improve assistive device availability and affordability. For instance, China’s Healthy China 2030 plan emphasizes the development of elder care services, including mobility aids. Rapid urbanization and the adoption of innovative technologies are expected to sustain Asia-Pacific's growth momentum in the coming years.

Personal Mobility Devices Market Competitive Overview

The personal mobility devices market is characterized by intense competition among established players and emerging companies, driven by the increasing demand for advanced mobility solutions. Leading companies such as Invacare Corporation, Sunrise Medical, and Ottobock are focusing on innovation, leveraging cutting-edge technologies like AI and IoT to develop smart and efficient devices. The Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America highlights a growing trend toward lightweight, foldable, and eco-friendly products, further enhancing competition.

Regional players, particularly in Asia-Pacific, are gaining traction by offering cost-effective solutions tailored to local needs. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the market also sees high activity in regulatory approvals, as companies strive to bring advanced devices to market. Collaborative ventures, mergers, and acquisitions are common strategies; for instance, manufacturers are partnering with healthcare providers to expand their reach. Rising investments in R&D and government initiatives promoting assistive technologies are creating new opportunities for industry players. The competitive landscape is expected to evolve further as companies address user-centric design, affordability, and sustainability, securing their foothold in this dynamic market.

Leading Market Players in the Personal Mobility Devices Market

• Invacare Corporation: Invacare Corporation is a prominent player in the personal mobility devices market, known for its wide range of wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and walking aids. Headquartered in the United States, the company caters to both individual and institutional customers. Invacare has a strong focus on innovation, introducing powered wheelchairs with advanced control systems to enhance user mobility. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the aging population in North America has driven significant demand for its products. Invacare's global presence, supported by robust distribution networks, solidifies its position as a leader in delivering reliable mobility solutions.
• Ottobock: Based in Germany, Ottobock specializes in high-quality prosthetics, orthotics, and mobility aids, including wheelchairs and standing devices. The company is renowned for its technologically advanced solutions, such as exoskeletons and AI-powered wheelchairs. The World Health Organization highlights Ottobock’s contributions to addressing the needs of over 75 million wheelchair users globally. Ottobock’s commitment to research and development, along with its partnerships with healthcare providers, ensures continuous innovation, positioning it as a leader in the personal mobility devices market.
• Pride Mobility Products Corp.: Pride Mobility Products Corp., headquartered in the United States, is a market leader in mobility scooters and power chairs. Its flagship product line, the Jazzy Power Chair, features advanced battery systems and ergonomic designs. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services notes the increasing preference for powered mobility solutions among elderly individuals, a trend Pride Mobility capitalizes on effectively. With a strong emphasis on customer-centric solutions and extensive online sales channels, the company maintains its competitive edge in the global market.

Top Strategies Followed by Players

• Focus on Technological Innovation: Leading players in the personal mobility devices market prioritize technological advancements to enhance product functionality and user experience. For instance, Ottobock has developed AI-integrated wheelchairs that adapt to user movements, offering improved autonomy and safety. Similarly, Pride Mobility Products Corp. leverages advanced battery systems to extend the range of mobility scooters. According to the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research, such innovations address the growing demand for user-centric, smart mobility devices, enabling companies to differentiate their offerings and capture market share.
• Expansion Through Strategic Partnerships: Collaborations with healthcare providers, distributors, and technology firms are a key strategy among market leaders. Invacare Corporation, for instance, partners with hospitals and clinics to supply tailored mobility solutions for post-surgical rehabilitation. Sunrise Medical collaborates with research institutions to develop ergonomic designs for mobility aids. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, such partnerships ensure wider reach and accelerate the development of advanced products, fostering long-term growth and market presence.
• Commitment to Sustainability: Sustainability initiatives are becoming a focus as companies align their operations with global environmental goals. Ottobock has implemented eco-friendly manufacturing practices, while Medline Industries uses recyclable materials for its mobility devices. The Environmental Protection Agency highlights the importance of reducing carbon footprints in medical product manufacturing, making sustainability a competitive differentiator. These efforts resonate with eco-conscious consumers and improve brand reputation, driving market success.

List of Key Companies Operating in the Personal Mobility Devices Market Include

• Drive DeVilbiss Healthcare
• GF Health Products Inc.
• Invacare Corporation
• Ottobock
• Patricia Industries (Permobil)
• Stryker Corporation
• Pride Mobility Products Corp.
• Sunrise Medical (US) LLC
• Medline Industries Inc.
• Arjo
• Kaye Products Inc.
• Rollz International
• Performance Health

Recent Developments in the Personal Mobility Devices Market

• January 2023:  Drive DeVilbiss Healthcare announced the launch of its new Breezy Oxlife Neo 2 wheelchair. This lightweight and compact wheelchair is designed for easy transport and maneuverability, making it ideal for users who are active and on the go.
• February 2023:  GF Health Products Inc. entered into a strategic partnership with Invacare Corporation to develop and market innovative mobility solutions for the home healthcare market. The partnership aims to leverage the strengths of both companies to improve the quality of life for people with mobility challenges.
• March 2023:  Ottobock announced the opening of a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Poland. The new facility will produce a range of prosthetic and orthotic devices, including advanced mobility solutions.
• May 2023:  Stryker Corporation announced the launch of its new Mako SmartRobotics-Assisted Total Knee Replacement System. This innovative system is designed to improve the accuracy and precision of knee replacement surgery, leading to better patient outcomes.
• April 2024: Stryker Corporation invested $10 million in a research and development initiative focused on the development of innovative assistive technologies for individuals with mobility impairments. The initiative will explore the use of artificial intelligence and robotics to create more personalized and effective mobility solutions.

Global Personal Mobility Devices Market Report: Scope

List of Segments Covered

This section of the personal mobility devices market report provides detailed data on the segments at country and regional level, thereby assisting the strategist in identifying the target demographics for the respective product or services with the upcoming opportunities.

By Product

• Wheelchair
• Walking Aids
• Scooters
• Other Products

By End User

• Hospital And Clinics
• Home Care Settings
• Other