Overview
The global smart wheelchair market, valued at USD 163.38 million in 2023, is projected to grow at a CAGR of 8.2%, reaching USD 359.31 million by 2032. Smart wheelchairs incorporate advanced technologies like AI, IoT, and sensors, enabling features such as obstacle detection, navigation, customizable controls (joysticks, voice commands, or thought control), and real-time health monitoring. These features enhance mobility, autonomy, and quality of life for users in various settings, including homes, hospitals, and elderly care facilities.
Market growth is driven by rising demand for innovative mobility solutions for the elderly and disabled, fueled by advancements in technology. Despite high initial costs, the long-term benefits of independence and improved quality of life make these wheelchairs attractive. Key innovations, such as voice control and advanced navigation, are transforming traditional wheelchair functionality, catering to diverse user needs in rehabilitation and elderly care.
Use Cases
Mrs. D receives an invite to her friend’s home for lunch. She get on her wheelchair parked in front of the door, and entered her friend’s house as destination. The wheelchair starts to autonomously navigate to the destination, while Mrs. D keeps on texting her friend without the need to drive. The sidewalks on the way is very poorly maintained and sloped, but the wheelchair automatically choses the safest path and avoids the trash cans on the road. On her way, Mrs. D sees her neighbors in the way. They briefly greet each other, while the wheelchair safely passes around her neighbors. As she approaches her friend’s house, Mrs. D recalls how her friends spends great effort taking care of her lawns, and instructs the wheelchair to “make sure not to step on the grass”. The wheelchair processes the instruction and goes through the house’s pebble road as instructed, despite it being more bumpy than the lawn. Mrs. D safely reaches the door of her friend’s house, and happily recommends to her friend how convenient and reliable her wheelchair is.