Wheelchair/scooter market to top $5.3 billion by 2012
By HME News Staff
Updated Sun December 17, 2006
DUBLIN, Ireland - Buoyed by new technology and strong demand, the wheelchair and scooter markets are expected to reach $5.3 billion by 2012, an international market research and data firm announced last week.
The markets peaked at $1.7 billion in 2005, according to Research and Markets.
"The power wheelchair and scooter markets are expected to grow as baby boomers age," the firm stated in a release. "The aging of the population is expected to change markets. Older people need more support for continued mobility through disability."
Also pushing the "dramatic" shift in use: "Power wheelchairs and scooters are evolving a market presence that goes beyond handicapped transport to personal transport." The firm noted that individuals now commonly use wheelchairs and scooters in shopping centers, airports and gated communities.
Medicare pays for most wheelchairs and scooters, the firm noted.
The firm's report on the wheelchair and scooter markets includes market descriptions and forecasts, product descriptions, technology assessments and company profiles. Companies mentioned in the report: Invacare, Drive Medical, Graham-Field, Hoveround, Permobil, Sunrise Medical, Shoprider Mobility, Convaid, Convaquip and Pride Mobility.
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