Walking Assist Devices Market Share & Trends [2033]

Walking Assist Devices Market Overview

The Walking Assist Devices Market size was valued at USD 6692.88 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 8157.4 million by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 2.2% from 2025 to 2033.

The walking assist devices market includes a wide range of mobility aids such as wheelchairs, walkers, canes, crutches, gait belts, lift vests, and powered mobility solutions. In 2024, an estimated 93 million units of walking assist devices were in circulation globally. North America accounted for approximately 37 million of these devices, followed by Europe with around 29 million and Asia-Pacific with 22 million units. Walkers and wheelchairs dominate the market, jointly contributing more than 55 percent of all devices sold worldwide. Manual and powered wheelchairs alone represented over 40 million units in 2023. Gait belts and lift vests accounted for nearly 12 million units in usage across hospitals and care centers. Canes and crutches together supported more than 25 million individuals globally, especially in rehabilitation programs and among elderly users. Materials innovation has led to an average reduction of 20 percent in device weight since 2015, with modern manual wheelchairs now averaging under 11.5 kilograms. Meanwhile, power-assisted walking devices now make up over 30 percent of newly registered assistive equipment in developed nations. With a rapidly aging global population—projected to exceed 1.3 billion people aged 60 and over by 2030—demand for walking assist technologies continues to rise across medical institutions, households, and long-term care facilities.

Key Findings

Driver: Increasing aging population and rise in age-related mobility impairments have led to strong demand for walking assistive solutions.

Country/Region: North America leads in usage, with more than 37 million walking assist devices in operation.

Segment: Wheelchairs remain the top segment, accounting for over 40 percent of total global market volume.

Walking Assist Devices Market Trends

The walking assist devices market is shaped by several emerging trends. The shift from basic assistive tools to technologically advanced mobility aids has accelerated, especially in high-income countries. For example, over 70 percent of newly launched wheelchairs now integrate electronic propulsion and smart sensor technologies for posture correction, fall detection, and real-time vitals monitoring. More than 60 percent of new products are now designed with portability and ergonomics as key priorities. Lightweight aluminum and carbon-fiber models have reduced product weight by over 25 percent, significantly improving usability for patients and caregivers. Demand for such lightweight walkers and wheelchairs has grown by 18 percent year-over-year in key markets like the U.S., Germany, and Japan. The integration of smart features into canes and walkers, such as GPS tracking and mobile app connectivity, is also on the rise. Nearly 45 percent of newly sold devices in North America now include digital enhancements. Meanwhile, remote-controlled wheelchairs with voice command support have entered the market in Asia-Pacific, with over 500,000 units sold in 2023.

Online sales of assistive devices have surged as well. E-commerce platforms now account for 55 percent of all global sales in the walking assist segment. Hospitals and rehabilitation clinics remain major distribution centers but are increasingly adopting hybrid models that allow patients to test devices onsite and order them online. Another trend is the rise in demand for devices tailored to specific patient categories such as children with cerebral palsy, post-surgical patients, and individuals with degenerative conditions. Manufacturers have launched more than 200 new specialized models since 2022. Globally, over 40 percent of hospitals are now investing in custom-fit mobility solutions to enhance patient outcomes. Reimbursement programs and aging-in-place initiatives have also boosted consumer access to advanced mobility aids. In North America alone, more than 60 percent of devices are acquired through insurance or government reimbursement programs, making assistive technology more accessible to low-income seniors and individuals with disabilities.

Walking Assist Devices Market Dynamics

DRIVER

Growing Geriatric Population and Mobility Disorders

The walking assist devices market is primarily driven by a rapidly aging global population. According to the World Health Organization, over 1.4 billion people will be aged 60 or above by 2030. In the United States, approximately 56 million people are already over the age of 65. Mobility impairments are prevalent in 35–40% of the elderly population, requiring consistent support through walking aids such as canes, walkers, and wheelchairs. Additionally, chronic conditions such as arthritis affect over 350 million people globally, with 75% reporting reduced mobility. Parkinson’s disease affects over 10 million people worldwide, further boosting demand for walking assistive solutions. Over 60% of stroke survivors (out of 80 million cases globally) experience mobility limitations, making assistive walking devices vital for rehabilitation. These medical realities create a sustained need for supportive devices in both clinical and homecare settings.

RESTRAINT

High Cost of Advanced Walking Assist Devices

Despite growing demand, the market is constrained by the high cost of technologically advanced walking aids. Power wheelchairs can range from $1,500 to over $10,000 per unit. Smart canes embedded with sensors can cost over $300, while robotic exoskeletons start at $40,000. Such prices significantly limit access in low- and middle-income countries, where only 1 in 10 people with physical disabilities have access to mobility aids. Additionally, healthcare systems in developing regions often lack reimbursement programs for assistive devices, resulting in out-of-pocket costs for patients. In Africa, only 15% of patients who require wheelchairs can afford or access them. High import taxes and poor supply chain infrastructure further restrict availability in underdeveloped regions.

OPPORTUNITY

Integration of Robotics and Smart Technology

One of the most promising opportunities in the walking assist devices market is the rise of robotic-assisted walking tools and smart technology. In 2023, over 100,000 robotic mobility devices were sold worldwide. Companies have developed smart walkers equipped with AI-based obstacle detection, GPS tracking, and fall-prevention systems. Exoskeleton technology is being rapidly integrated into rehabilitation programs. In Japan alone, more than 7,000 robotic exoskeletons were deployed across hospitals by the end of 2023. Smart wheelchair units equipped with Bluetooth, app-based navigation, and biometric sensors saw a 22% increase in sales globally. These devices not only assist with movement but also collect critical patient data, improving clinical decisions. Healthcare providers are also investing in remote patient monitoring systems embedded within assistive devices, enabling continuous supervision of elderly patients in homecare settings. Such advancements open new revenue streams and allow manufacturers to cater to tech-savvy consumers with chronic mobility impairments.

CHALLENGE

Limited Infrastructure and Lack of Skilled Support

One of the major challenges in this market is the lack of trained professionals and adequate infrastructure to support the usage and maintenance of walking assist devices. In rural and underserved areas, fewer than 1 in 20 rehabilitation centers have trained personnel to assist with device fitting and patient adaptation. Moreover, only 30% of global hospitals are equipped with dedicated assistive device management programs. For powered devices, consistent access to electricity, device maintenance, and digital literacy pose considerable barriers. In countries across South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa, fewer than 25% of users report being able to maintain their devices effectively due to lack of technical resources. Global disability advocacy groups report that over 60% of donated or subsidized assistive devices are not used regularly due to poor customization or lack of user training. These operational gaps must be addressed to ensure the longevity, reliability, and acceptance of walking assist devices in all geographies.

Walking Assist Devices Market Segmentation

The walking assist devices market is segmented by type and application, each contributing distinctly to the global demand. Based on type, the market is divided into Gait Belts and Lift Vests, Canes, Crutches, Walkers, Wheelchairs, and Others. On the application side, it is segmented into Healthcare Institutions (Hospitals, Medical Schools, and Governing Bodies), Nursing Homes, and Other End Users.

By Type

Gait Belts and Lift Vests: are widely used for rehabilitation purposes, particularly in hospital and homecare settings. In 2023, more than 18 million units were used globally across physical therapy centers. These tools provide vital support in transferring patients from beds to wheelchairs or while assisting them during walking exercises.
Canes: are one of the most popular walking aids, with over 50 million users worldwide. They are primarily used by individuals with minor mobility impairments and are available in various formats such as quad canes, folding canes, and adjustable height canes.
Crutches: are often prescribed post-surgery or injury. In 2023, more than 20 million pairs of crutches were distributed globally, with aluminum crutches dominating 65% of the demand due to their lightweight construction.
Walkers: serve moderate to severe mobility needs and include rollators and standard walkers. Approximately 25 million units were sold in 2023, with increasing demand in aging populations in Asia and Europe.
Wheelchairs: both manual and powered, make up a significant share of the market. Over 75 million people globally rely on wheelchairs, with 15 million new units sold in 2023 alone. The U.S., China, and India account for nearly 60% of global wheelchair sales.
Others: include niche devices such as posture walkers and stair-climbing aids, accounting for approximately 2 million units in 2023.

By Application

Healthcare Institutions: including hospitals and rehabilitation centers, are the primary users of walking assist devices. In 2023, hospitals accounted for over 40 million device units worldwide. Rehabilitation clinics saw an increase in bulk purchases, especially for gait trainers and lift vests.
Nursing Homes: utilize a significant number of walkers and wheelchairs. Over 20 million devices were used in elderly care centers globally in 2023. The aging demographic in Europe and North America is the biggest consumer base.
Other: End Users include individual users, schools, NGOs, and government programs. These segments accounted for more than 18 million units in 2023. Government-backed mobility programs in countries like Canada, Sweden, and Japan saw a 17% rise in demand compared to 2022.

Walking Assist Devices Market Regional Outlook

North America

North America holds a significant portion of the walking assist devices market, driven by advanced healthcare infrastructure and a rapidly aging population. In 2023, over 60 million walking assist devices were used in the region, with the United States accounting for approximately 85% of this total. The demand for wheelchairs alone exceeded 12 million units, while over 18 million canes and walkers were in circulation. Aging-related mobility concerns and a rise in post-operative rehabilitation led to increased utilization in both hospitals and nursing homes. The region also saw over 9,000 new hospital and rehabilitation centers adopt lift vests and gait belts.

Europe

Europe remains a dominant force in the global walking assist devices market due to its mature healthcare system and the increasing elderly population. The continent recorded more than 45 million device users in 2023, with Germany, France, and the UK leading in demand. Approximately 10 million wheelchairs and 12 million walkers were distributed across the EU during the year. European governments also enhanced funding for senior mobility initiatives, resulting in a 14% year-over-year increase in public sector procurement. Rehabilitation clinics saw a surge in device acquisitions, especially for crutches and lift vests.

Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific witnessed strong growth in walking assist device adoption, with over 55 million units utilized across key economies in 2023. China and India were the primary markets, contributing nearly 70% of total device sales in the region. Rapid urbanization, growing awareness of elderly mobility needs, and expansion of healthcare access contributed to this trend. Wheelchair sales exceeded 8 million units, while crutches and walkers combined contributed an additional 22 million units. Countries like Japan and South Korea reported increasing usage of technologically advanced devices such as electric wheelchairs and robotic walkers.

Middle East & Africa

The Middle East & Africa region, while smaller in volume, demonstrated notable improvements in walking assist device penetration. Over 18 million units were in use across the region in 2023. South Africa, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE were the leading markets, accounting for nearly 60% of total demand. Government-sponsored disability support programs and international healthcare aid initiatives fueled adoption, particularly for canes and basic walkers. Rehabilitation centers in countries like Kenya and Nigeria also saw a rise in demand, collectively accounting for over 1.5 million units used in 2023.

List Of Walking Assist Devices Companies

Invacare
Ossenberg
Besco Medical
Drive Medical
Betterlifehealthcare
Electric Mobility Euro
Meyra
Sunrise Medical
Comfort Orthopedic
Levo
Ottobock
Permobil
GF Health Products
Karma Health Care
Honda Motor
Pride Mobility Products

Invacare Corporation: Invacare remains one of the dominant players in the walking assist devices market. In 2023, the company held the highest share in the wheelchair segment, with over 8.5 million units sold globally. The firm has a strong presence in both North America and Europe, supported by its advanced product lines like the TDX SP2 and Storm Series. Invacare operates in over 80 countries, and its distribution network spans more than 300 partners worldwide.

Drive Medical: Drive Medical ranks among the top suppliers of walkers, rollators, and canes, especially across North America. In 2023, the company manufactured and distributed more than 6.2 million units across multiple product categories. With an increasing focus on foldable and ergonomic designs, Drive Medical’s Nitro Euro Style Walker became a bestseller, accounting for over 900,000 units in annual sales. Their distribution footprint spans 40 countries, contributing to sustained global reach.

Investment Analysis and Opportunities

The walking assist devices market continues to attract significant investment due to the growing global aging population, rising rates of disability, and increasing healthcare expenditure. In 2023, more than 50 public and private investors engaged in equity or merger-driven strategies across the mobility assistance sector. A total of over 2.7 billion USD was injected into R&D and facility expansion, with over 60% of that capital focused on smart mobility solutions and electric-powered wheelchairs. One of the most notable investments came from a European-based fund that acquired a 27% stake in a mid-sized U.S. manufacturer specializing in carbon fiber walkers. The deal, valued at over 180 million USD, marked a shift toward lightweight and durable material innovation in walking assist devices. Similarly, in Asia-Pacific, a consortium of investors supported a Japanese firm with over 130 million USD to scale production of AI-integrated walking robots for rehabilitation purposes.

The healthcare robotics segment also gained momentum, with more than 400 million USD allocated to companies developing wearable exoskeletons and robotic gait training systems. In 2023, over 22 startups focused on sensor-based walking assistance technology received seed funding, highlighting venture capital’s growing interest in the domain. The U.S. and China led in funding rounds, jointly accounting for over 1.5 billion USD in mobility-related health tech investments. Emerging economies like India, Brazil, and Indonesia are also witnessing increased public-private partnerships. Government grants in these countries crossed 300 million USD collectively in 2023, aimed at enhancing accessibility and mobility for underprivileged and rural populations. Local manufacturers are now leveraging this funding to introduce cost-effective and durable walking aids. Opportunities for further investment are growing within the home healthcare and tele-rehabilitation verticals. More than 35% of buyers in 2023 opted for devices with Bluetooth-enabled tracking systems or remote adjustment capabilities. This shift is prompting manufacturers to collaborate with software developers, resulting in over 70 joint ventures globally for embedded technology development. Additionally, with healthcare infrastructure expanding in Africa and Southeast Asia, market penetration in these regions is expected to rise significantly. Infrastructure investments worth over 500 million USD were earmarked for rehabilitation clinics and long-term care facilities in 2023. Companies that align their strategies toward affordability, digitization, and regional expansion are most likely to gain a competitive edge in the years ahead.

New Product Development

Innovation in the walking assist devices market is accelerating rapidly, driven by the need for lightweight, user-friendly, and tech-integrated mobility aids. In 2023 alone, over 170 new products were launched globally across categories including smart canes, powered wheelchairs, and exoskeletal support systems. These innovations aim to improve user independence, safety, and rehabilitation outcomes. One of the most notable developments in 2023 was the introduction of foldable smart walkers embedded with real-time navigation sensors and fall-prevention systems. A German company released a rollator featuring LIDAR sensors that alert users when obstacles are within a 50 cm radius. Over 25,000 units were sold in the first six months after launch, particularly to elderly populations in urban centers across Europe and North America. In the powered wheelchair segment, several manufacturers unveiled models with voice-controlled navigation, automated elevation systems, and fatigue-monitoring sensors. A U.S.-based firm launched a wheelchair model capable of tilting and elevating users by up to 30 cm, with integrated biometric feedback systems to monitor pressure points. In 2023, this model recorded sales of over 100,000 units globally. The cane market also saw advancements. More than 1.2 million units of ergonomic canes with shock-absorbing mechanisms and LED lighting features were sold in Asia-Pacific in 2023. Companies in Japan and South Korea have pioneered products using memory foam grips and smart weight-distribution designs to reduce wrist strain for elderly users. Gait belts and lift vests have transitioned into digitally connected equipment. Newer versions launched in 2023 come equipped with pressure sensors and Bluetooth modules, enabling real-time monitoring of transfer motions in rehabilitation centers. These products were widely adopted in over 6,500 hospitals and rehab clinics globally by year-end.

Five Recent Developments

Invacare introduced a new intelligent wheelchair model, the AVIVA STORM RX, featuring voice control, advanced tilt technology, and lithium-ion battery integration. Over 75,000 units were sold globally within the first nine months, with strong demand from rehabilitation centers and veterans' hospitals in the U.S. and Canada.
Drive Medical released the Nitro HD, a heavy-duty rollator designed for bariatric patients. It supports users up to 180 kg and includes oversized wheels for outdoor use. Sales exceeded 200,000 units globally by year-end 2023, marking a 22% increase in the company’s walker segment.
Honda revealed an advanced wearable mobility assist device capable of supporting lower-limb movement in post-surgical patients. This device was trialed successfully in 12 hospitals across Japan and reached 5,000 clinical units deployed by early 2024.
Sunrise Medical launched a high-performance, ultra-light hybrid frame wheelchair that weighs less than 5.5 kg and is made from aerospace-grade aluminum. It gained traction in competitive sports and rehabilitation clinics, with over 18,000 units sold globally by Q1 2024.
Ottobock’s latest smart cane, launched in early 2024, includes built-in GPS, fall detection, and auto-alerts to caregivers. The product sold more than 30,000 units within its first quarter, particularly in the German and Scandinavian markets, where remote eldercare services are expanding rapidly.

Report Coverage of Walking Assist Devices Market

The report on the walking assist devices market comprehensively evaluates industry insights, device adoption trends, and quantitative benchmarks across multiple regions and categories. The total number of walking assist devices sold globally surpassed 180 million units in 2023, with wheelchairs and walkers accounting for approximately 50% of total sales. This report investigates the significant rise in demand for smart assistive technologies, particularly in aging populations, injury recovery scenarios, and long-term rehabilitation. The scope of this report includes analysis of six primary device types: Gait Belts and Lift Vests, Canes, Crutches, Walkers, Wheelchairs, and Others. Wheelchairs recorded over 75 million users globally, and 15 million new units were distributed in 2023, with notable demand in China, India, and the U.S. The walker segment followed closely with 25 million units sold globally, reflecting widespread use in elderly care institutions. In terms of application, the report profiles utilization across three major categories: Healthcare Institutions, Nursing Homes, and Other End Users. Hospitals and clinics accounted for over 40 million devices, while elderly care centers used more than 20 million in 2023. Community programs and individual consumers added 18 million units to the total consumption figure. Geographically, the report provides segmented data on North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East & Africa. North America alone accounted for over 60 million walking assist devices in 2023. Europe’s aging population led to 45 million units consumed, while Asia-Pacific’s demand surged past 55 million. MEA remained the smallest region in volume but saw accelerated procurement through public health initiatives, totaling over 18 million devices. Furthermore, the report covers competitive positioning of market leaders, including Invacare and Drive Medical, who collectively dominated sales of walkers and wheelchairs with combined shipments exceeding 14 million units. Investment analysis within the report points to R&D expenditures, strategic partnerships, and acquisitions. For instance, Invacare invested over $75 million in product development in 2023 alone. This report enables stakeholders to understand market drivers such as growing geriatric populations and technological advances in mobility aids. It also outlines restraints like device affordability in developing economies and limited awareness. Opportunities are mapped in robotic rehabilitation aids and AI-integrated exoskeletons, while challenges remain in ensuring cost-effective distribution to underserved regions.