The Vietnamese government recently unveiled the National Strategy for Senior Citizens, aiming to significantly improve the quality of life for the elderly by 2035, with far-reaching visions extending to 2045. This comprehensive strategy aligns with the growing recognition of the aging population's needs and the importance of ensuring their well-being across various aspects of life.
Approved on February 21, 2025, this initiative highlights the government's commitment to addressing pertinent issues faced by senior citizens, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds or suffering from illnesses. It addresses not only health care but also employment opportunities and social services, reflecting the government's desire to integrate senior citizens back actively within the societal framework.
According to the government, "The strategy aims to build and complete the system of policies for the elderly comprehensively and sustainably." The National Strategy sets out specific targets to be achieved by 2030. One ambitious goal is to have at least 100% of senior citizens covered by health insurance, ensuring they receive necessary medical care without financial burden.
To tackle employment empowerment, the plan aims for at least 50% of elderly citizens capable of work to have job placements by 2030. This includes the provision of vocational training and startup loans for at least 100,000 elderly families, creating avenues for financial independence. The government also plans to facilitate job opportunities through community engagement.
The strategy also emphasizes the importance of fostering cultural and recreational activities for senior citizens. The government aims to establish various social clubs within communities, with at least 60% of villages and towns offering activities like sports, arts, and other leisure pursuits to encourage social participation among the elderly. With these developments, there is at least one social club per locality dedicated to elder activities.
Healthcare improvements are central to the strategy. Reports indicate, "100% of elderly people will have health insurance by 2030," reflecting the administration's commitment to ensuring access to quality health services. This encompasses timely health checks, preventive care, and periodic health assessments to improve their health outcomes.
Legal protections are another important pillar of this strategy. Provision for legal assistance and safeguarding rights for at least 80% of financially challenged or abuse-affected elders has also been integrated. This initiative not only seeks to uplift the vulnerable but also aims to educate families on caring for those with conditions such as dementia or severe disabilities.
"Senior citizens play a significant role and should be supported and empowered by the entire political system and society," stated community leaders reflecting on the initiative's broader impact. This holistic approach ensures resources will also be allocated to enhancing the capacity of social care facilities dedicated to elder care.
Looking forward, the objective extends beyond mere welfare. By 2045, the government aims to refine and expand elder care policies, creating even more societal engagement avenues for senior citizens within Vietnam, strengthening their contributions to nation-building efforts. There is also the aspiration to develop the infrastructure necessary for long-term care and efficient service delivery throughout the country.
“With this strategy, we envision our elderly not just as dependents but as active contributors to our society,” commented governmental officials, indicating their resolve to make every effort toward comprehensive improvements for senior citizens.
The National Strategy for Senior Citizens signifies Vietnam’s commitment to modernizing its policies for the elderly, reinforcing the indispensable role they play within the family and society at large. By doing so, Vietnam aims to guarantee the health, welfare, and dignity of its aging population, thereby fulfilling the moral and social obligations to these individuals who have contributed significantly to the nation.