Starkey MEA Champions Hearing Health for UAE’s Aging Population in Support of Preventive Care Vision
Starkey MEA FZCO, a leading name in hearing solutions, has reinforced its commitment to advancing hearing health among the UAE’s elderly as part of the nation’s broader preventive healthcare strategy. This initiative comes in response to rising concerns over the impact of untreated hearing loss on cognitive health and quality of life among older adults.
According to the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), the proportion of senior citizens in the UAE is expected to surge from 6% to 29% by 2050, underscoring the urgent need for age-inclusive healthcare strategies.
Aligning with National Elder Care Strategies
Starkey’s efforts are closely aligned with the UAE’s National Policy for Senior Emiratis, launched in 2018, which aims to keep senior citizens active, healthy, and socially engaged. The company also supports Dubai’s Elderly Happiness Strategy, which is part of the wider Dubai Happiness Agenda, aiming to enhance overall well-being for the city’s older residents.
“Hearing loss is one of the most underdiagnosed and undertreated conditions in the UAE’s elderly population. Yet it is also one of the most manageable—if diagnosed early and addressed with the right technology and professional care,” said Giscard Bechara, Regional Director of Starkey MEA FZCO, ahead of the company’s upcoming regional hearing awareness campaign.
The Health and Social Impact of Hearing Loss
Globally, over 1.5 billion people live with hearing loss, and nearly one-third of adults over 65 are affected, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). In the UAE, the challenge is intensifying with a rapidly aging population, emphasizing the need for proactive screening and early intervention.
Starkey’s second-half 2025 campaign will focus on early detection, public awareness, and accessibility. This will include free screening campaigns, collaborations with elder care facilities, and expanded outreach through community partnerships.
Advanced Technology for Holistic Well-being
“Good hearing is not just about communication—it’s about safety, mental health, and dignity,” said Bechara. “Our latest hearing solutions go beyond amplification. They connect users to their environment, track wellness, and empower independent living. Moreover, they provide families with tools to monitor hearing aid usage and ensure their loved ones are actively benefiting from them.”
Research supports Starkey’s mission. A 2023 JAMA study found that early hearing aid use can reduce cognitive decline by up to 48%, and the Lancet Commission on Dementia Prevention has identified hearing loss as a major modifiable risk factor for dementia.
A Vision for Aging with Dignity
Bechara stressed the importance of public-private collaboration in achieving national goals. “We share the UAE’s vision of aging with dignity, independence, and connection. In a society like the UAE, where families are deeply connected, ensuring optimal hearing care for the elderly strengthens family bonds and overall community well-being.”
With its latest campaign and innovations, Starkey MEA continues to be a vital partner in building a more inclusive and age-ready healthcare ecosystem across the UAE.
