The Vietnamese government has unveiled its National Strategy for Elderly Care, aiming to revolutionize the support system for its growing elderly population by 2045. A significant focus of this initiative is to lay down comprehensive policies aimed at ensuring the dignity, health, and active involvement of seniors within society.
With projections indicating the elderly population rising substantially, the strategy sets forth ambitious goals between now and 2045 to provide not just basic support but also enable the elderly to live fulfilling lives. By the year 2030, the objective is for every older citizen to have health insurance (BHYT), with at least 90% receiving timely healthcare and regular check-ups as outlined by the government’s directive.
One of the standout features of this strategy is its pledge to create job opportunities for those elderly who can and wish to work. The government aims to have at least 50% of economically active seniors engaged in jobs by 2030. It also plans to provide vocational training for at least 100,000 seniors, ensuring they have the skills required for contemporary work environments. These initiatives are part of broader efforts to empower older citizens to become economically independent, thereby enhancing their quality of life.
Financial assistance also plays a central role within this strategy. Starting July 1, 2024, adjustments to the pension system will see the monthly allowance for the elderly raised to at least 500,000 VND, ensuring more support reaches those most vulnerable. This increase will be especially beneficial to disadvantaged groups, including those who are truly elderly without any retirement savings or social insurance perks.
"The government recognizes the importance of adapting our social policies to the changing demographics. The aim is to protect and uplift our elderly, allowing them to live with dignity and purpose," said Pham Truong Giang, Director of the Social Insurance Department at the Ministry of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs.
Another remarkable plan within the strategy promotes community engagement and cultural participation among the elderly. It sets goals to establish clubs for seniors, allowing them to partake in cultural, sports, and recreational activities—creating avenues for both social engagement and physical health. Aiming for at least 60% of towns and neighborhoods to feature such clubs, the government believes these initiatives will help seniors maintain their vitality and well-being.
Healthcare access is also greatly emphasized; according to the strategy, all elderly individuals should receive healthcare checks and support without any barriers by 2030. This includes specialized care facilities, where seniors can receive appropriate assistance, especially for chronic conditions or disabilities. Further, hospitals will be mandated to establish elderly care facilities within their premises, ensuring medical treatment and rehabilitation services meet their unique needs.
By 2030, the government aims to eradicate living conditions where elderly citizens reside in substandard housing. It is proposed as part of the overall welfare enhancements for seniors. The plan lays down provisions for those who live without sufficient resources, ensuring safe and secure living environments are accessible to all.
Such measures are seen as fundamental shifts not only within welfare spheres but also how society regards and integrates the elderly. By engaging local enterprises and community programs, the Vietnamese government intends to bridge gaps between the elderly and the younger generations, promoting intergenerational support and learning.
To achieve these objectives, set actions include crafting rigorous procedures for monitoring implementation. Annual assessments will be established to gauge the effectiveness of current welfare schemes, making adjustments as necessary to meet shifting demographics and needs.
On the legal front, the government is modifying social insurance laws to lower access age for pensions from 80 to 75, streamlining access for the most aged and impoverished groups, with certain populations being eligible for pensions as early as age 70.
The strategy also highlights the need for media engagement, necessitating publications to focus on and amplify elderly-related stories and successes weekly. This step is anticipated to change the narrative surrounding aging, fostering respect and inclusion for the elderly.
Overall, the National Strategy for Elderly Care aims to build on Vietnam's historical legacy of respecting its elders. With these policies scheduled for gradual rollout, the government is optimistic about carving out a supportive, dignified future for the nation's elderly population. By fostering both societal responsibility and individual resilience, Vietnam is positioning itself as a model for elderly care reform on the global stage.