The global patient lifting equipment market is poised for robust growth over the next decade, reflecting the increasing focus on patient safety, caregiver well-being, and healthcare efficiency. Valued at US$ 5,474.3 million in 2024, the market is projected to expand at a CAGR of 12.9% from 2025 to 2035, reaching more than US$ 20,550.1 million by the end of 2035. The expansion is driven by the growing prevalence of chronic illnesses and disabilities, the rapidly aging global population, and increasing healthcare expenditure worldwide.

Analyst Viewpoint

Analysts observe that rising awareness about the importance of safe patient handling, combined with the availability of technologically advanced lifting devices, is propelling market demand. Chronic conditions such as arthritis, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and stroke are on the rise globally, leading to a growing number of individuals with reduced mobility. Consequently, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and home care environments are investing heavily in patient lifting solutions to ensure safety, minimize injury risk, and improve the overall patient experience.

In addition, the healthcare sector is witnessing a paradigm shift toward automation and ergonomics. Leading manufacturers are introducing motorized lifts, automated slings, and portable lifting systems to reduce physical strain on caregivers while ensuring patient comfort. The integration of intelligent sensors, remote control operations, and IoT-enabled devices is further enhancing the precision and reliability of patient transfers, setting new standards for modern healthcare infrastructure.

Market Overview

Patient lifting equipment encompasses a range of mechanical and electronic devices designed to assist in safely transferring or repositioning patients with limited mobility. These tools play an essential role in hospitals, nursing homes, and home care settings by reducing physical strain and preventing musculoskeletal injuries among caregivers.

Commonly used equipment includes:

• Ceiling lifts: Mounted on overhead tracks for smooth patient transfers.
• Mobile hoists: Portable wheeled devices for versatile use across facilities.
• Sit-to-stand lifts: Assist patients in moving from a sitting to a standing position.
• Transfer belts and slide sheets: Facilitate short-distance moves, such as from a bed to a wheelchair.

By improving both safety and dignity in patient care, these devices are becoming indispensable in healthcare systems worldwide.

Market Drivers

1. Rising Prevalence of Chronic Conditions and Disabilities

The increasing number of patients suffering from chronic illnesses and physical disabilities is a key driver of market expansion. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 1.3 billion people, or about 16% of the global population, live with significant disabilities. Conditions such as musculoskeletal disorders, neurological diseases, and cardiovascular ailments often impair mobility, creating a pressing need for patient lifting equipment.

These devices significantly improve the quality of life for patients by enhancing independence and reducing the risk of falls and transfer-related injuries. For caregivers, the use of lifting equipment minimizes physical strain and workplace injuries, enhancing operational efficiency in hospitals and long-term care facilities. As healthcare systems prioritize safety and efficiency, the demand for automated and smart lifting technologies is expected to surge.

2. Growing Geriatric Population and Rising Healthcare Expenditure

The global demographic shift toward an aging population is another critical factor shaping the market. Individuals aged 65 and above are more susceptible to mobility issues and chronic diseases, leading to increased dependency on assistive equipment. Regions such as North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific are experiencing a sharp rise in their elderly populations, resulting in growing healthcare needs.

In tandem, healthcare expenditure is climbing worldwide as governments and private institutions invest in infrastructure and patient care technology. Home healthcare services are also expanding rapidly, driven by the preference of elderly individuals to age in place. Portable, user-friendly lifting devices are becoming essential in home settings, enabling safe transfers while preserving patient dignity and caregiver safety.

Market Segmentation Insights

By Product Type: Manual Patient Lifts Lead the Segment

Manual patient lifts currently dominate the market due to their affordability, versatility, and reliability. They are preferred by small healthcare facilities and home care providers operating on limited budgets. Manual lifts can be used for multiple transfer applications, such as moving patients from beds to wheelchairs, commodes, or shower chairs. Their low maintenance requirements and ease of use continue to make them an essential component of patient handling solutions.

By Application: Patient Transfer Segment Holds the Major Share

The patient transfer segment is expected to retain the largest market share, as safe transfers are integral to daily healthcare operations. Patients are frequently moved between beds, wheelchairs, and examination tables, particularly in hospitals and rehabilitation centers. Regulatory guidelines, such as those issued by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in the United States, mandate the use of patient handling equipment to reduce workplace injuries, further reinforcing the dominance of this segment.

Regional Outlook

North America Leads the Global Market

North America accounted for the largest share of the global patient lifting equipment market in 2024, driven by a combination of advanced healthcare infrastructure, high adoption of modern lifting technologies, and a large aging population. The U.S. and Canada are at the forefront, with extensive use of patient handling solutions across hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home care settings.

Innovations and product launches are further boosting market expansion. For instance, Invacare Corporation introduced the Birdie Evo XPLUS in 2022, a state-of-the-art patient lift designed to enhance comfort and safety in post-acute care environments. Other regions such as Europe and Asia Pacific are also witnessing rapid growth due to increasing healthcare spending and government initiatives promoting patient safety.

Competitive Landscape

The global market is highly competitive, with major players focusing on product innovation, strategic partnerships, and regional expansion. Prominent companies include:

• Arjo
• Baxter
• Benmor Medical
• Drive DeVilbiss Healthcare
• Etac AB
• GF Health Products, Inc.
• Guldmann A/S
• Invacare Holdings Corporation
• Joerns Healthcare
• K Care Healthcare Solutions
• Medline Industries, LP
• Prism Medical UK
• Stryker

These companies are enhancing their offerings through technological advancements such as smart lifting systems, ergonomic designs, and IoT integration to strengthen their market presence and cater to the growing demand for safer and more efficient patient handling solutions.

Recent Developments

In February 2023, Dynarex launched its Bari+Max line of premium bariatric care products, designed to meet the specific needs of bariatric patients. The range includes heavy-duty patient lifts, slings, and long-term care beds with weight capacities up to 1,000 lbs, underscoring the industry’s growing focus on inclusivity and specialized patient care.

Conclusion

The patient lifting equipment market is set for strong expansion through 2035, supported by technological innovation, an aging population, and increased healthcare spending. With global healthcare systems striving to enhance safety and efficiency, patient lifting equipment will remain a critical component of modern medical infrastructure. The integration of automation, smart technologies, and ergonomic designs is expected to revolutionize patient mobility and caregiver support, ensuring steady market growth over the forecast period.

By 2035, the market’s value is anticipated to exceed US$ 20.5 billion, establishing patient lifting equipment as an indispensable segment of the global healthcare ecosystem.