In 2022, roughly 56 thousand care homes were in operation in just seven European countries. That year, with 13.5 thousand care homes, Germany operated more homes than any other European country. England had the second-highest number of care homes, with 10.8 thousand homes in 2022.

In 2022, over three million care home beds were in operation in just seven European countries. That year, with 900 thousand care home beds, Germany operated more beds than any other European country. France had the second-highest number of care home beds, with 595 thousand beds in 2022.

Demand for European residential care services is closely tied to demographic shifts, notably age shifts. As Europe grapples with an ageing population and people are living longer, demand for retirement homes and nursing care homes is climbing to cater to this growth. The industry is essential for providing care to older people, with nursing care offering clinical care through medical services, rehabilitation and personal care. Greater life expectancies across Europe are driving demand, as seniors require more specialised medical care and assistance that isn’t possible at home. Revenue is anticipated to grow at a compound annual rate of 1.2% over the five years through 2025. In several European countries, the residential care market is still relatively under-utilised compared to the size of the elderly population. In Southern Europe, notably Spain and Italy, households use retirement homes less because of a tradition of more family-based care. Revenue is projected to grow by 0.5% in 2025 to €159.6 billion. The strict regulatory environment that care services have to operate in makes it harder for new service providers to set up and therefore, it’s tricky for increased demand to translate to revenue growth. Looking forward, the ageing demographic isn’t showing signs of slowing, which will sustain demand for residential care services. Robust demand from an ageing population will continue to accelerate industry growth. Residential care providers will have to navigate more stringent regulations, which will be an additional hurdle for new providers. Revenue is expected to swell at a compound annual rate of 0.8% over the five years through 2030 to €166.4 billion. Profit is estimated to reach 3% in 2030.

In Europe, care home costs for dependent seniors varied greatly from one country to another. In 2019, the average monthly cost of a care home reached over 3020 euros in the United Kingdom, whereas in Sweden the average cost amounted to 1300 euros.

Elderly Care Services Market Outlook

The global elderly care services market size was estimated at USD 1.2 trillion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 2.5 trillion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 8.5% during the forecast period. The growth of this market is primarily driven by the increasing aging population worldwide, rising chronic diseases, and the growing need for professional healthcare services for the elderly.

One of the primary growth factors in the elderly care services market is the demographic shift toward an aging population. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the global population aged 60 years and older is expected to reach 2 billion by 2050, up from 900 million in 2015. This aging demographic is creating a significant demand for various elderly care services, including home care, adult day care, and institutional care. Moreover, with advancements in healthcare technology and better living standards, life expectancy is increasing, further necessitating the need for comprehensive elderly care services.

Another critical factor driving market growth is the rising incidence of chronic diseases among the elderly. Conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and arthritis are more prevalent among older adults, requiring continuous medical attention and care. The management of these chronic conditions often involves regular monitoring, medication management, and assistance with daily activities, which in turn fuels the demand for specialized elderly care services. Additionally, the growing awareness about the importance of mental health in old age is leading to the adoption of services that address cognitive health and dementia care.

The integration of technology in elderly care services is also a significant growth driver. Telehealth, remote patient monitoring, and mobile health apps are revolutionizing how elderly care is delivered. These technological advancements not only improve the quality of care but also make it more accessible and cost-effective. For instance, telehealth enables caregivers to monitor patients remotely, reducing the need for frequent hospital visits and allowing seniors to receive care in the comfort of their homes. Similarly, mobile health apps can help track medication schedules, appoint reminders, and provide health tips, enhancing the overall well-being of the elderly.

Regionally, the elderly care services market is witnessing robust growth across various geographies. North America leads the market owing to its advanced healthcare infrastructure, high disposable income, and a large aging population. Europe follows closely, driven by strong government support and well-established elderly care programs. The Asia Pacific region is expected to witness the highest growth rate during the forecast period, attributed to rapid urbanization, increasing life expectancy, and growing awareness about elderly care services. Countries like Japan and China are at the forefront in this region, with significant investments in elderly care facilities and services. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are also showing promising growth, albeit at a slower pace compared to other regions.

Retirement Communities are becoming increasingly popular as a preferred choice for elderly individuals seeking a vibrant and engaging lifestyle. These communities offer a range of amenities and services designed to enhance the quality of life for seniors, including recreational activities, wellness programs, and social events. Residents can enjoy the benefits of independent living while having access to support and care services as needed. The sense of community and belonging in these settings is a significant draw for many seniors, providing opportunities for social interaction and the development of meaningful relationships. As the aging population continues to grow, retirement communities are expected to play a crucial role in meeting the diverse needs and preferences of older adults.

Service Type Analysis

The elderly care services market is segmented into three primary service types: home care, adult day care, and institutional care. Home care services encompass a range of services provided in the patient's home, including medical care, personal care, and companionship. These services are highly preferred due to the comfort and familiarity of the home environment. Many elderly individuals and their families opt for home care to avoid the stress and disruption of moving to a new living arrangement. The inc

In 2020, the share of daily nursing home costs that are handled by public authorities or insurances varies greatly from one European country to another. How European countries regulate nursing home costs depends on their public health expense policies. Long-term care is a significant part of a country’s healthcare expenditure. To a certain extent, health costs and medical expenses are financed by local authorities, national or regional health insurance, and national nursing care insurance. In Ireland, ** percent of the cost per day of a nursing home was borne by the financial support derived from the Fair Deal Scheme. In Czechia, only ** percent of the daily nursing home costs were supported by health insurance. The complex landscape of European nursing homes In 2020, the landscape of nursing homes in Europe was diverse with different shares of homes owned by public or private institutions. During that year, over ** percent of nursing homes were publicly owned in Norway and Denmark. Within privately owned homes, some were for-profit and others not. For instance, ** percent of nursing homes were owned by for-profit private companies in the UK, whereas ** percent of nursing homes were owned by the private non-profit sector in the Netherlands. Therefore, the share of nursing home beds managed by the public or private sector was also very different from one European country to another. The costs of nursing homes in Europe In 2019, the average daily cost of a care home could reach over *** euros in some European countries and less than ** euros in others. During that year, the average monthly cost of a care home amounted to **** euros in the United Kingdom and Germany. The cost of care homes is expected to increase as the need will escalate in Europe due to its aging population. Nonetheless, European health systems rely significantly on informal care, a potentially risky strategy.

European Long-Term Care Recipients at Home by Country, 2023 Discover more data with ReportLinker!

European Healthcare Expenditure on Residential Long-Term Care Facilities by Country, 2023 Discover more data with ReportLinker!

Canada’s nursing care facilities have been defined by a sustained surge in demand, driven by the country’s aging population. Seniors now account for nearly one in five Canadians and almost half of all provincial health spending, placing considerable pressure to expand long-term care facilities. Longer life expectancies, alongside the increasing prevalence of chronic conditions that come with age, have prompted an expansion of new beds across the country. With government at the federal and provincial levels steadily increasing funding for nursing care, industry revenue is expected to climb at a CAGR of 2.6% to reach $10.6 billion in 2025, with revenue growing 2.8% in 2025 alone. The steady increase in government spending on expanding nursing care has been most prevalent in Ontario, where provincial authorities have committed $6.4 billion to build and upgrade 58,000 beds by 2028. Ontario has prioritized large-scale investment, channelling a significant share of public funds to for-profit chains. Initiatives like this have prompted significant consolidation across the industry, as large operators have leveraged public funding to acquire assets, expand their geographic reach and streamline operations. The economies of scale achieved by for-profit chains via consolidation have prompted a rise in profitability across the industry, with profit forecast to reach 12.2% of revenue in 2025. Looking ahead, the continued aging of the population will drive a persistent need for long-term care, worsening the labour shortages already faced by the industry. The Canadian government will remain a major driver of long-term care expansion through multi-year investments, including initiatives to stem the workforce gap. The federal government has already responded with targeted investments, including programs to help internationally educated health professionals enter the workforce. In the coming years, technology adoption is poised to become increasingly central to helping facilities bridge gaps in staff capacity. Given ongoing demographic shifts, the industry is forecast to grow at a CAGR of 2.8%, reaching $12.2 billion by 2030.

Nursing Home Compare has detailed information about every Medicare and Medicaid nursing home in the country. A nursing home is a place for people who can’t be cared for at home and need 24-hour nursing care. These are the official datasets used on the Medicare.gov Nursing Home Compare Website provided by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. These data allow you to compare the quality of care at every Medicare and Medicaid-certified nursing home in the country, including over 15,000 nationwide.

In Europe, the ownership of care homes varies greatly from one country to the other. In 2020, the Nordic countries had the highest rates of publicly owned care homes, whereas care homes were mostly privately owned and for-profit in the United Kingdom. A significant share of care homes was privately owned in Germany and the Netherlands, although these were non-profit.

European Healthcare Expenditure on Long Term Nursing Care Facilities Share by Country (Million Euros), 2023 Discover more data with ReportLinker!

The global private home nursing care services market is experiencing robust growth, driven by an aging population, increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, and a rising preference for receiving care within the comfort of one's home. The market size in 2025 is estimated at $150 billion, exhibiting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7% from 2025 to 2033. This growth is fueled by several key factors. Technological advancements, such as telehealth and remote patient monitoring, are enhancing the quality and accessibility of home-based care, improving patient outcomes and reducing hospital readmissions. Furthermore, supportive government policies and initiatives aimed at promoting aging in place are bolstering market expansion. The increasing affordability of home healthcare services, coupled with improved insurance coverage, is also contributing to market growth. Segmentation analysis reveals that the elderly population constitutes the largest segment within the market, followed by individuals with disabilities and children requiring specialized care. Different service types, such as daily activity management, medication management, and postoperative care, cater to the diverse needs of the target population. While challenges such as regulatory hurdles, workforce shortages, and concerns about service quality exist, the overall market trajectory remains positive, anticipating substantial expansion over the forecast period. The diverse range of service providers, from large multinational corporations to smaller, specialized home care agencies, contributes to the market's competitive landscape. Geographical distribution shows significant market concentration in developed nations like the United States, Canada, and countries across Western Europe, driven by higher disposable incomes and advanced healthcare infrastructure. However, emerging economies in Asia-Pacific and other regions are witnessing rapid growth due to increasing awareness, improved healthcare accessibility, and a growing middle class. Future growth will depend on addressing workforce shortages through training initiatives and technology adoption, enhancing the quality and standardization of services through regulatory frameworks, and expanding access to affordable care, especially in underserved populations. Further research into unmet needs and technological advancements holds the key to unlocking future market potential.

Robotic Telepresence for Elder Care Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global market size for Robotic Telepresence for Elder Care reached USD 1.46 billion in 2024, reflecting a robust expansion driven by the increasing adoption of advanced healthcare technologies for aging populations. The market is forecasted to reach USD 7.98 billion by 2033, growing at a remarkable CAGR of 20.6% from 2025 to 2033. This significant growth is primarily attributed to the rising demand for remote care solutions, the shortage of healthcare professionals, and a global emphasis on enhancing the quality of life for elderly individuals, as per our most recent market analysis.

One of the primary growth drivers for the Robotic Telepresence for Elder Care market is the rapidly aging global population, particularly in developed economies. As the proportion of individuals aged 65 and above continues to climb, there is an increasing need for innovative solutions that can support independent living while ensuring safety and social connectedness. Robotic telepresence systems address these needs by enabling real-time visual and audio communication between elderly individuals and caregivers or family members, regardless of geographical barriers. This capability not only helps reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness among seniors but also allows for timely medical intervention and continuous monitoring, which are critical for managing chronic conditions and preventing accidents. As governments and healthcare providers seek to reduce the burden on traditional care facilities, investment in telepresence technologies is expected to accelerate, further fueling market growth.

Another significant factor propelling market expansion is the integration of advanced artificial intelligence, machine learning, and IoT technologies into robotic telepresence platforms. These technological advancements have enabled robots to offer more personalized and adaptive care, such as medication reminders, emergency response, and cognitive stimulation activities. The growing awareness of the benefits associated with these intelligent systems—ranging from improved health outcomes to cost savings for families and healthcare systems—has led to increased adoption across a variety of end-user segments, including home care, assisted living facilities, and nursing homes. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of contactless care delivery, prompting both public and private stakeholders to prioritize investments in telepresence robotics as a means to mitigate infection risks and ensure continuity of care.

The expanding ecosystem of supportive policies and reimbursement frameworks is also contributing to the positive outlook for the Robotic Telepresence for Elder Care market. Many countries are introducing initiatives and funding programs aimed at encouraging the deployment of digital health solutions for the elderly. For instance, in North America and Europe, governments are promoting the adoption of telehealth and remote monitoring technologies through subsidies, tax incentives, and pilot projects. These regulatory efforts are helping to lower the financial barriers to entry for both providers and end-users, thereby increasing market penetration. Additionally, collaborations between technology firms, healthcare organizations, and academic institutions are fostering innovation and accelerating the commercialization of next-generation telepresence robots tailored to the specific needs of elderly populations.

The introduction of Telemedicine Robots is revolutionizing the landscape of elder care by providing unprecedented access to healthcare services. These robots are equipped with advanced telecommunication technologies that allow healthcare professionals to conduct remote consultations, diagnose conditions, and even perform certain medical procedures from afar. This capability is particularly beneficial in rural or underserved areas where access to healthcare facilities might be limited. By integrating telemedicine functionalities, robotic telepresence systems can offer comprehensive care solutions that go beyond traditional monitoring and communication, ensuring that elderly individuals receive timely and effective medical attention without the need for physical travel.

From a regional perspective, North America currently leads the Ro

BackgroundIntermediate care is often defined as healthcare occurring somewhere between traditional primary (community) and secondary (hospital) care settings. High quality intermediate care is important in dementia, may prevent caregiver burnout and also lead to optimal care for people with dementia. However, very little is known about the point of intermediate care for persons with dementia in Europe.Research questionsWhat intermediate care services exist and how are they utilized in the care of people with dementia in Europe?ObjectiveThis study aims at describing the point of view of General Practitioners on intermediate care services for people with dementia across Europe.MethodsKey informant survey was sent to GPs via a self-developed questionnaire with space for open ended comments. 16 European countries participated to this cross-sectional mixed method study. Given the volunteer nature of the study, no minimum sample size requirements were applied to participation. Convenience sampling technique was used to address variations due to regional variations and regulations within the same country. Descriptive analyses of all intermediate care facilities groups by countries were performed. Qualitative analyses approach was used for the optional-free text to exemplify and/or complete the reasons contained in the closed response categories.ResultsThe questionnaire was sent to 16 European countries. 583 questionnaires were analyzed. The responding physicians were 48 (± 11) years old on average and they had been in practice for an average of 18 (+ /11) years. The types of intermediate care considered were integrated at-home services, respite and relief services, day care centers and nursing homes. Their availability was considered very inhomogeneous by the majority of respondents. The main benefits of intermediate care cited were better medical care for the patient (78%), better quality of life for the caregiver (67%), prevention of the caregiver burden (73%) and a break for the caregiver (59%). The reported difficulties were: accessing these facilities due to limited financial support (76%) and cumbersome administrative procedures (67%). Many other facets of our findings were captured in the qualitative themes that emerged.ConclusionIntermediate care in Europe is diverse and heterogeneous. Major concerns of GPs are about the cost issues and the cumbersome administrative procedures to access them.

Aged Care Software Market size was valued at USD 3.1 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 6.3 Billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 9.4% during the forecast period 2026 to 2032.Global Aged Care Software Market Drivers:The market drivers for the aged care software market can be influenced by various factors. These may include:Growing Aging Population: The global elderly population is growing significantly, particularly in affluent countries. This growing generation needs considerable healthcare, pushing the use of aged care software to effectively manage care plans, medications, and daily health routines in real-time situations.Rising Prevalence of Chronic Diseases: Chronic illnesses such as diabetes, dementia, and cardiovascular disease are more prevalent among the elderly. Aged care software assists in constantly monitoring these conditions, ensuring prompt interventions, and lowering hospital readmissions, consequently promoting software adoption throughout care facilities.

BackgroundHealth and social care systems in many countries have begun to trial and adopt “integrated” approaches. Yet, the significant role care homes play within the health and social care system is often understated. A key first step to identifying the care home integration interventions that are most (cost-)effective is the ability to precisely identify and record what has been implemented, where, and when—a “policy map.”MethodsTo address gaps relating to the identification and recording of (cost-)effective integrated care home interventions, we developed a new typology tool. We conducted a policy mapping exercise in a devolved region of England—Greater Manchester (GM). Specifically, we carried out systematic policy documentary searches and extracted a range of qualitative data relating to integrated health and social care initiatives in the GM region for care homes. The data were then classified according to existing national ambitions for England as well as a generic health systems framework to illustrate gaps in existing recording tools and to iteratively develop a novel approach.ResultsA combined total of 124 policy documents were identified and screened, in which 131 specific care home integration initiatives were identified. Current initiatives emphasized monitoring quality in care homes, workforce training, and service delivery changes (such as multi-disciplinary teams). There was comparatively little emphasis on financing or other incentive changes to stimulate provider behavior for the care home setting. We present a novel typology for capturing and comparing care home integration policy initiatives, largely conceptualizing which part of the system or specific transition point the care home integration is targeting, or whether there is a broader cross-cutting system intervention being enacted, such as digital or financial interventions.ConclusionsOur typology builds on the gaps in current frameworks, including previous lack of specificity to care homes and lack of adaptability to new and evolving initiatives internationally. It could provide a useful tool for policymakers to identify gaps in the implementation of initiatives within their own areas, while also allowing researchers to evaluate what works most effectively and efficiently in future research based on a comprehensive policy map.

According to Cognitive Market Research, the Global elder care service Market Size was USD XX Billion in 2023 and is set to achieve a market size of USD XX Billion by the end of 2031 growing at a CAGR of XX% from 2024 to 2031.

• The global elder care market will expand significantly by XX% CAGR between 2024 and 2031. • The home care type segment accounts for the largest market share and is anticipated to a healthy growth over the approaching years. • The pharmaceutical sector holds the largest share and is expected to grow in the coming years as well. • Heart disease application is the market's largest contributor and is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of XX% during the projected period. • The North America region dominated the market and accounted for the highest revenue of XX% in 2022 and it is projected that it will grow at a CAGR of XX% in the future

Market Dynamics: Elder Care Service

Key Drivers for Elderly Care Services Market

The rising elderly population and advancements in assistive devices drive the market for elder care services: The increasing number of retirement communities boosts the market of elder care services globally. The growing demand for home care services is a driving factor for the growth of elder care services. As per WHO, the elderly population is predicted to reach nearly over 1 billion by 2050 across emerging economies and this rise will translate into huge demand for elder care services, thereby enlarging the scope of the market soon. Also, the elderly population is prone to diabetes, arthritis, and renal insufficiency along with other chronic diseases this factor drives the market.

Key Restraints for Elderly Care Services Market

Financial Constraints are a major challenge for elder care service: The emerging economies along with the low availability of skilled personnel can inhibit the expansion of the elderly care services market across the globe. Developing countries often struggle with limited healthcare infrastructure, making it challenging to establish specialized elder care services. Affordability issues for families in providing long-term care solutions, including assisted living or nursing home care may challenge the market growth for elder care services. The ongoing assistance and supportive lifestyle provided to senior citizens have many attributes that can contribute to low profit margins. Low refunds are generated by government funds and some insurance companies, which significantly restrains the market's growth. The financial aspects cannot meet the home services' premium quality services, hindering the market's growth. As the medical costs are increasing, the service providers cannot meet the health care cost of the elderly care services.

Key Trends for Elderly Care Services Market

The Adoption of Technology and Smart Care Solutions: Wearable health monitors, telemedicine, and AI-driven diagnostics are revolutionizing elderly care by facilitating remote health monitoring. Smart home devices, such as fall detection sensors and voice assistants, enhance safety and promote independence. Additionally, robotics is being utilized for companionship and physical support.

Opportunity

Rising demand for healthcare services and facilities: An increase in disposable income creates awareness for better lifestyles and healthcare facilities. This will shift the preference of aged people from an independent lifestyle to well-serviced residents with better care and facilities. Numerous facilities provided to these elderly populations enhance opportunities for the growth of elder care services. Elder care services mean serving the needs of old adults. It encompasses assisted living, adult daycare, long-term care, nursing homes (often called residential care), hospice care, and home care. Due to the wide variety of elderly care needs and cultural perspectives on the elderly, there is a broad range of practices and institutions across different parts of the world. Also, the market for elder care services is growing due to the increasing number of retirement communities. Retirement communities are privately owned and operated, representing a shift from a ‘care as service’ to a ‘care as business’ model. Additionally, Elderly care includes a broad range of practi...

Energy-efficient Elderly Care Facilities Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global energy-efficient elderly care facilities market size reached USD 13.7 billion in 2024, driven by rising demand for sustainable infrastructure in senior living environments. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 9.4% from 2025 to 2033, reaching a forecasted value of USD 31.1 billion by 2033. This robust growth is primarily attributed to an aging global population, stringent energy regulations, and increasing awareness around the operational cost savings and environmental impact of energy-efficient solutions in elderly care settings.

A significant growth factor for the energy-efficient elderly care facilities market is the accelerating demographic shift toward an older population worldwide. As per the United Nations, the number of people aged 65 years or above is expected to double by 2050, creating unprecedented demand for residential care solutions tailored to seniors. This demographic trend is compelling care facility operators to invest in modern, energy-efficient buildings that not only ensure resident comfort but also reduce long-term operational expenditures. The integration of advanced HVAC systems, smart lighting, and renewable energy sources is becoming standard practice, facilitating both regulatory compliance and improved quality of life for residents.

Another key driver is the increasing implementation of government policies and incentives aimed at promoting green buildings and sustainable healthcare infrastructure. Governments in North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific are introducing stricter energy codes and offering financial incentives for retrofitting or constructing energy-efficient elderly care facilities. These policy measures are fostering innovation in building technologies, encouraging the adoption of high-performance building envelopes, smart controls, and on-site renewable energy generation. As a result, facility operators are finding it economically viable to invest in energy-efficient upgrades, further propelling market growth.

The market is also being shaped by the growing awareness among facility owners and investors about the long-term benefits of energy-efficient solutions. Beyond regulatory compliance, energy-efficient elderly care facilities offer significant reductions in utility costs, improved indoor air quality, and enhanced resident satisfaction. The rising cost of energy and the need for resilient infrastructure in the face of climate change are prompting both new construction and retrofit projects to prioritize sustainability. Additionally, the adoption of digital technologies and smart building management systems is enabling real-time monitoring and optimization of energy use, driving operational efficiency and fostering a culture of sustainability within the sector.

From a regional perspective, North America currently leads the energy-efficient elderly care facilities market, accounting for over 38% of global revenue in 2024. This dominance is supported by early adoption of green building standards, robust funding for elderly care, and the presence of major market players. Europe follows closely, driven by ambitious energy transition goals and a rapidly aging population. Meanwhile, the Asia Pacific region is witnessing the fastest growth, fueled by rising urbanization, expanding healthcare infrastructure, and government investments in sustainable development. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are also showing promising growth trajectories, albeit from a smaller base, as awareness of energy efficiency and elderly care needs continues to rise.

Facility Type Analysis

The facility type segment within the energy-efficient elderly care facilities market is highly diversified, encompassing assisted living, nursing homes, independent living, memory care, and other specialty care environments. Assisted living facilities are a major contributor, as they often cater to seniors who require some assistance with daily activities but still seek a degree of independence. These facilities are increasingly integrating energy-efficient HVAC systems, LED lighting, and high-performance insulation to ensure resident comfort while minimizing operational costs. The focus on sustainability is particularly pronounced in new developments, where energy-efficient design is incorporated from the outset, helping facilities comply with evolving building codes and attract environmentally conscious residents

The European Health Interview Survey (EHIS) aims at measuring on a harmonised basis and with a high degree of comparability among Member States (MS) the health status (including disability), health determinants (lifestyle) of the EU citizens and use of health care services and limitations in accessing it.

The general coverage of the survey is the population aged 15 or over living in private households residing in the territory of the country.

EHIS was developed between 2003 and 2006. It consists of four modules on health status, health determinants, health care, and background variables (socio-demographic characteristics of the population).

Three waves of EHIS have currently been implemented. The first wave of EHIS (EHIS wave 1 or EHIS round 2008) was conducted between 2006 and 2009 in 17 EU Member States as well as Switzerland and Turkey.

The second wave (EHIS wave 2 or EHIS round 2014) was conducted between 2013 and 2015 in all EU Member States, Iceland, Norway and Turkey according to the Commission Regulation 141/2013.

The third wave of EHIS was conducted in 2019. All Member States participated in the EHIS wave 3 in accordance with the Commission Regulation (EU) No. 2018/255. A derogation regarding the data collection period was granted for some countries: the data collection period was 2018 for Belgium, 2018-2020 for Austria and Germany, and 2019-2020 for Malta.

The questionnaire consists of the same four modules for all the EHIS waves and over the years, some changes to the questionnaire have been implemented to satisfy specific users’ needs. Also, countries are allowed to include additional questions in the specific submodules or even specific sub-modules in the survey if this does not have an impact on the results of the compulsory variable

EHIS includes the following topics:

Health status
This topic includes different dimensions of health status and health-related activity limitations:

• General health status (Minimum European health module): self-perceived health, chronic morbidity and disability (activity limitation)
• Disease-specific morbidity
• Accidents and injuries
• Health-related absenteeism from work
• Physical and sensory functional limitations (also cognitive limitations in wave 3)
• Difficulties in personal care activities / activities of daily living (such as eating and washing) and help received/needed
• Household activities / Instrumental activities of daily living (such as preparing meals and shopping) and help received/needed
• Pain
• Aspect of mental health (psychological distress and mental well-being in the first wave, depressive symptoms in the second and third waves)
• Work-related health problems (only in the first wave).

Health care
This topic covers the use of different types of medicines and formal and informal health and social care services, which are complemented by data on health-related expenditure, and limitations in access to and satisfaction with health care services:

• Hospitalisation (in-patient and day care)
• Consultations with doctors and dentists
• Visits to specific health professionals (such as physiotherapists or psychologists)
• Use of home care services
• Use of medicines (prescribed and non-prescribed)
• Healthcare preventive actions (such as influenza vaccination, breast examination, cervical smear test and blood tests)
• Unmet needs for health care
• Out-of-pocket payments for medical care (only in the first wave)
• Satisfaction with services provided by healthcare providers (only in the first wave)
• Visits to specific categories of alternative medicine practitioners (only in the first wave).

Health determinants
This topic includes various individual and environmental health determinants:

• Height and weight
• Physical activity/exercise
• Consumption of fruits, vegetables and juice
• Drinking sugar-sweetened soft drinks (only in the third wave)
• Tobacco smoking behaviour and exposure to tobacco smoke
• Use of e-cigarettes or similar electronic devices (only in the third wave)
• Alcohol consumption
• Social support
• Provision of informal care or assistance (only in the second and third waves)
• Illicit drug use (only in the first wave)
• Environment (home and workplace exposures, criminality exposure) (only in the first wave).

Background variables on demography and socio-economic characteristics.

All indicators are expressed as percentages within the population and statistics are broken down by age and sex and one other dimension such as educational attainment level, income quintile group, degree of urbanization, country of birth, country of citizenship, level of disability (activity limitation).