China’s elderly care robot market is projected to surpass 10 billion yuan (about US$1.47 billion) by 2026, according to a Tuesday MIIT report, as the industry shifts from testing to large-scale adoption.
The report attributes this rapid growth primarily to China’s aging population and the widening gap between the demand for and supply of elderly care services.
Liu Wenqiang, vice president of the China Center for Information Industry Development, said population aging and caregiver shortages are driving demand for intelligent solutions, with elderly care robots emerging as a key response with strong market potential.
China Builds a Comprehensive Elderly Care Robotics Ecosystem
Over years of development, China has established a comprehensive industrial ecosystem for elderly care robots, spanning core component research and development, robot manufacturing, system integration, and operational services.
Significant progress has been achieved in key technologies such as multimodal sensing, artificial intelligence algorithms, and precision motion control. Chinese-made robots now perform at internationally advanced levels in functions including fall detection, remote monitoring, and rehabilitation assistance.
These robots have evolved well beyond basic services like cleaning and food delivery. They now offer a wide range of support, including daily assistance, health monitoring, companionship, rehabilitation, and mobility help, meeting the diverse needs of seniors.
Advancing Technology and Safety Remains a Priority
Liu called for continued improvements in technology, application scenarios, standards, and safety. He stressed integrating innovations like large AI models, advanced materials, and safer human-robot interaction into elderly care robots, while adapting them to the specific needs of older adults.
Industry forecasts suggest that professional nursing institutions will remain the largest market segment, accounting for roughly half of total demand. Community-based elderly care services account for around 30% of demand, while home-based care currently makes up about 20% but is growing the fastest.
Overall, the elderly care robot industry is expanding at an average annual rate of approximately 32 percent. The companion robot segment is growing even more rapidly, with annual growth estimated at around 42 percent.
By 2025, China’s population aged 60 and above had reached 323.38 million. More than 130 million of these seniors were living alone or as “empty-nesters,” with their children no longer residing in the family home.
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