Published 4 June 2026 · Last updated 22 June 2026
The UK mobility devices market is forecast to grow significantly through 2033, driven by an ageing population, rising demand for independent living solutions, and increased government investment in home adaptations. A report from Spherical Insights projects continued expansion across all major product categories, including stairlifts, mobility scooters, wheelchairs, and walking aids.
The primary driver of market growth is the UK’s rapidly ageing population. According to the Office for National Statistics, the number of people aged 65 and over in the UK is projected to grow from approximately 12.4 million in 2024 to over 14 million by 2033. The 85-and-over age group, which has the highest prevalence of mobility-limiting conditions, is expected to grow even faster in percentage terms. As more people live longer, the demand for mobility equipment that enables them to remain in their homes and communities will continue to rise.
The market breaks down into several key product categories. Wheelchairs, both manual and powered, represent the largest segment by volume. Mobility scooters are the fastest-growing category, driven by increasing acceptance of scooters as a mainstream transport option for older adults. Stairlifts and home lifts form a significant segment linked directly to home adaptation spending. Walking aids, including rollators, walking frames, and walking sticks, remain the most commonly used mobility devices overall, though they represent a lower per-unit value. Bathroom mobility equipment, such as shower seats, grab rails, and bath lifts, is also experiencing strong growth as more homes are adapted for accessibility.
The UK’s housing stock plays a notable role in shaping demand. The majority of UK homes were built before accessibility was a consideration in building regulations. Multi-storey houses with narrow staircases and small bathrooms present particular challenges for people with mobility impairments, creating strong demand for stairlifts, bathroom adaptations, and through-floor lifts. New-build homes are increasingly designed with accessibility in mind, but the retrofit market for existing homes will remain the dominant source of demand for the foreseeable future.
Government support programmes are a significant market enabler. The Disabled Facilities Grant, which provides up to £30,000 for home adaptations in England, received £723 million in funding for 2026/27. The Motability Scheme leases over 600,000 vehicles and powered mobility devices to disabled people. NHS wheelchair services provide manual and powered wheelchairs to eligible patients. Together, these programmes create a substantial baseline of publicly funded demand that supports the wider commercial market.
Data compiled by POI Data on mobility equipment retailers across the UK shows a network of thousands of specialist suppliers, ranging from national chains to independent local dealers. The retail landscape is evolving, with online sales growing as a proportion of total revenue, though the nature of mobility equipment, which often requires assessment, fitting, and demonstration, means that physical retail and home visits remain essential to the purchasing process.
Looking ahead, technological innovation is expected to contribute to market growth. AI-assisted wheelchairs, GPS-enabled scooters, lightweight carbon-fibre frames, and smart home integration are among the developments that could expand the addressable market by appealing to a wider range of users and use cases. As the population ages and awareness of available solutions grows, the UK mobility devices market is well positioned for sustained expansion through the end of the decade and beyond.
Related guides on Review Mobility
- Stairlifts: types, costs, and installation
- Mobility scooters: complete buying guide
- Wheelchairs: manual and powered options
- Walking aids: types and advice
Published 4 June 2026 · Last updated 22 June 2026