Europe Wheelchairs and Mobility Aids Market is expected to reach US$ 9.33 Billion by 2031

Wheelchairs Segment based on Product to Bolster Europe Wheelchairs and Mobility Aids Market Growth

According to our new research study on "Europe Wheelchairs and Mobility Aids Market Forecast to 2031 –Regional Analysis – by Product, Application, End User, and Distribution Channel," the market was valued at US$ 5.87 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach US$ 9.33 billion by 2031; it is anticipated to record a CAGR of 7.1% from 2025 to 2031. The report emphasizes the Europe wheelchairs and mobility aids market trends, along with drivers and deterrents affecting the market growth. The increasing geriatric population and rising mobility impairment disorders are contributing to the growing Europe wheelchairs and mobility aids market size. However, the high cost of wheelchairs and mobility aids is hampering market growth. Further, the lightweight and compact designs are expected to emerge as a market trend in the coming years. 

Rising Mobility Impairment Disorders Bolster Europe Wheelchairs and Mobility Aids Market Growth

Arthritis, Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis are among the most common mobility impairment disorders reported in Europe. In terms of revenue, Germany dominated the market in 2024. It is expected to continue its dominance in the global market during the forecast period. Germany is the largest European market for wheelchairs and mobility aids, owing to the increasing number of disabled people and rising investments by the government in the development of smart wheelchairs. According to the Observatory of Economic Complexity, Germany exported US$ 154 million worth of wheelchairs in 2022, making it the second-largest exporter worldwide. As per the Statistisches Bundesamt (Destatis), ~7.8 million severely disabled people were living in Germany in 2021. The Federal Government is focused on funding research for the development of smart wheelchair seats. In September 2021, the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) in Germany funded a research project by Ottobock with the allocation of nearly US$ 1.08 million. In partnership with TU Dresden University, this research project is aimed at developing an intelligent seat for young wheelchair users. Moreover, the rising prevalence of chronic diseases and increasing population drive the need for robust healthcare infrastructure in Germany, which is expected to support the market progress in the coming years.

Europe Wheelchairs and Mobility Aids Market, by Country

Source: The Insight Partners Analysis

Scope of Europe Wheelchairs and Mobility Aids Market Report:

The Europe wheelchairs and mobility aids market analysis was carried out by considering the following segments: product, application, end user, distribution channel, and geography. 

Based on product, the Europe wheelchairs and mobility aids market is segmented into wheelchairs, mobility scooters, walking aids, and others. The wheelchairs segment is further bifurcated into type and category. The type segment is classified into manual, powered, power-assisted, and accessories. The category segment is divided into new and refurbished. The wheelchairs segment dominated the market in 2024. Manual wheelchairs offer significant benefits such as promoting independence and quality of life to the aging population, particularly when properly selected and individualized to meet user needs. Ongoing developments and personalization by market players—such as Invacare, Sunrise Medical, and Küschall—are fueling the demand for manual wheelchairs in Europe. In May 2024, Küschall launched the new addition to its product line, Champion SL manual wheelchair. The Champion SL is a super-light (weighing only 5.9 kg) and rigid folding wheelchair that combines the original Champion model's convenience with the KSL model's high-performance features. With its enhanced frame rigidity, users can enjoy improved drive and reduced energy loss during propulsion, leading to a smoother and more efficient ride. The folding mechanism simplifies storage and enhances portability without compromising the wheelchair's robust structure, promoting better handling and reducing user fatigue. Powered wheelchairs offered by various manufacturers such as Invacare, Ottobock, Meyra, and Dietz Power, along with brands like Eloflex, ComfyGO, and Karma, help individuals with limited mobility, including the elderly and people with disabilities, move independently. This reduces their reliance on caregivers and allows greater participation in daily life and social activities. Modern electric wheelchairs are equipped with advanced features such as adjustable seating, enhanced cushioning, and user-friendly controls, making them comfortable and accessible for a wide range of users. Innovations like lightweight materials, improved battery life, foldable designs, and smart controls (e.g., gesture-based operation) make electric wheelchairs more appealing and practical for everyday use, including travel and outdoor activities. For example, Invacare Kompas and Invacare Esprit Action, manufactured by Invacare and Sunrise Medical's QUICKIE, aim to assist with daily activities. They are designed for easy portability and folding. Additionally, market players are launching new products with advanced features to increase their market share. Power-assisted wheelchairs combine the benefits of manual mobility with electric support, offering greater independence for users who may lack the strength or stamina to self-propel for extended periods. These hybrid systems typically include motorized hubs or rear-mounted units that reduce the physical effort required to push the chair, making them ideal for elderly users or those with limited upper body strength.

By application, the Europe wheelchairs and mobility aids market is divided into neurologically impaired, handicap patients, and other applications. The neurologically impaired segment dominated the market in 2024. Neurological conditions such as dementia, Alzheimer, and Parkinson’s have a direct impact on the mobility of the patient. As per the European Academy of Neurology (EAN), ~60% of the European population suffers from neurological diseases. According to Alzheimer Europe, the number of people living with dementia is expected to increase to 14,298,671 in the EU27 by 2050 from the estimated 7,853,705 in 2019. In Europe, dementia is a growing public health concern among the aging populace. Therefore, the growing prevalence of neurological disorders is consequently propelling the demand for wheelchairs.

Based on end user, the Europe wheelchairs and mobility aids market is segmented into homecare, hospitals and clinics, rehabilitation centers, and others. The homecare segment held the largest share of the market in 2024. The use of wheelchairs and mobility aids in home care is rapidly growing in Europe, propelled by several key drivers and recent product innovations. This growth is primarily attributed to an aging population, increasing prevalence of chronic illnesses and post-surgical recovery requirements, and progressive governmental strategies that encourage aging in place and home-based rehabilitation. Notably, Germany exemplifies this trend, where statutory health insurance actively facilitates access to specialized rehabilitation equipment for home use, reinforcing the broader movement toward decentralized, patient-centric care solutions. Additionally, technological advancements have led to the launch of smart and connected mobility aids, such as powered and app-integrated wheelchairs with features such as remote monitoring, fall detection, and customizable ergonomic designs, making them more suitable and attractive for home use. For instance, manufacturers such as Sunrise Medical and Karma Medical are introducing tailor-made wheelchairs and lightweight, foldable models that cater specifically to home environments and individual patient needs. In September 2022, Karma Medical, a leading wheelchair manufacturer, launched the Flexx Adapt, a highly adjustable manual wheelchair designed for pediatric users. The Flexx Adapt features a dynamic backrest that absorbs sudden movements and offers tilt-in-space and recline functions to provide pressure relief and support for growing children. Additionally, Karma's pediatric wheelchair lineup includes the Flexx Junior, a versatile manual chair intended for children aged 7–15. Expanding e-commerce and robust distribution networks further improve access, while public sector support and reimbursement policies make these devices more affordable for patients. These trends are reinforced by product launches focused on smart wheelchairs with automated navigation and voice control, and long-term care beds with integrated safety features, all designed to enhance independence and quality of life for users in home care settings

As per distribution channel, the Europe wheelchairs and mobility aids market is bifurcated into online and offline. The offline segment dominated the market in 2024. In Europe, offline distribution of wheelchairs and mobility aids primarily through physical stores and healthcare providers remains the dominant channel, accounting for a significant portion of sales. This preference stems from the ability of users to physically assess the comfort and features of the devices, which is especially important for first-time users or those requiring specialized seating and positioning. Offline channels facilitate hands-on evaluations of wheelchairs, ensuring a proper fit and functionality tailored to individual needs. For many, purchasing from a physical store or provider offers a sense of trust and reliability.

Various specialized medical supply stores and pharmacies across Europe provide a wide range of wheelchairs and mobility aids, allowing customers to browse and test different models before making a decision. For instance, in June 2024, Ottobock UK launched the Juvo B7 power wheelchair, designed for all-day comfort and control. This wheelchair is distributed through authorized dealers and rehabilitation centers to guarantee proper fitting and user training.

Furthermore, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and specialized clinics often have in-house options for distributing wheelchairs and related equipment, sometimes through dedicated departments or by collaborating with suppliers. In January 2024, Sunrise Medical introduced the Switch-It Vigo head control, a wireless device for intuitive wheelchair operation. This product is made available through clinical partners and mobility equipment suppliers, enabling hands-on demonstrations and user customization.

Europe Wheelchairs and Mobility Aids Market Analysis: by Country

The geographical scope of the Europe wheelchairs and mobility aids market is assessed by evaluating the market performance in European countries such as Spain, the UK, Germany, France, Italy, Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Poland, Belgium, and the Netherlands.

World Economic Forum, World Health Organization, European Journal of Neurology, Forbes Health, Eurostat, European Association for Injury Prevention and Safety Promotion, Observatory of Economic Complexity, and National Library of Medicine (NLM) are among the primary and secondary sources referred to while preparing the Europe wheelchairs and mobility aids market report.

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