DUBLIN, Ireland--The markets for wheelchairs and scooters are expected to increase to $5.3 billion by 2012, a research firm said Thursday, with growth based on new technology and increasing demand.

A report from Research and Markets said the markets for these products--which reached $1.7 billion in 2005--have shifted considerably in the last year, with vehicles moving beyond the medical arena to personal use. Scooters and power wheelchairs are often used in shopping centers, airports, in gated communities and for local transport.

These markets are also expected to grow as the baby boomers age, the firm said. According to a release, "the aging of the population is expected to change markets. Older people need more support for continued mobility through disability. Rehabilitation becomes more prevalent."

Most PWCs and scooters are paid for by Medicare or private insurance, the research firm said.

The report includes information on products, technology and company profiles on Invacare, Convaid, Convaquip, Drive Medical, Graham-Field, Hoveround, Permobil, Pride Mobility, Shoprider Mobility and Sunrise Medical, among others.