Healthcare, psychological, and social needs of older adults in the United Arab Emirates

As population aging becomes a growing policy and service issue in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), evidence is needed on older adults’ self-reported needs. This study examined healthcare, psychological, and social needs among Emirati older adults and explored whether these needs varied across socio-demographic groups. A quantitative cross-sectional survey was conducted with 175 Emirati adults aged 60 years and above. Participants reported high levels of need related to respectful treatment, family stability, regular contact with family and friends, supportive living environments, and access to health-related information and services. Across most socio-demographic comparisons, no statistically significant differences were found. The only significant difference was observed for psychological needs, with men reporting higher scores than women. The findings underscore the importance of family relationships, social connectedness, and accessible support services in later life in the UAE. Although limited by a convenience sample, the study provides much-needed empirical evidence on a population that has rarely been directly investigated, and offers a useful foundation for family social work, service planning, and future aging research in the UAE.