The Vietnamese government is taking significant steps to improve the welfare of its senior citizens through the recent announcement of the national strategy for elderly citizens, detailed under Decision 383/QD-TTg, approved on February 21, 2025.
This initiative highlights the government's commitment to create more inclusive and supportive environments for older adults, aiming to improve their life quality significantly by 2035, with measurable targets set for 2030.
A key facet of this strategy focuses on employment opportunities for seniors, with plans to support at least 50% of older persons capable of working by providing them meaningful job placements. The goal is to empower at least 100,000 elderly individuals to receive vocational training and career guidance through dedicated programs at educational and supportive institutions.
The Vietnamese government is also addressing the pressing need for social assistance for the elderly, particularly those aged 80 and above. This demographic, vulnerable due to potential financial precarity, will have new options for social assistance based on local economic conditions as outlined by the Ministry of Labor, Invalids, and Social Affairs. According to their regulations, "All elderly people are to receive social assistance and insurance coverage under the current laws.” This will be especially focused on those without pensions or adequate support from family.
Another significant change revolves around how financial assistance is distributed. Currently, the streamlining of social assistance payments is set to transition from cash payments to non-cash delivery mechanisms, making the use of bank accounts more prevalent among seniors. Provincial governments are cooperating closely with local banks to set up systems beneficial to senior citizens. They are promoting access to bank accounts to facilitate the receipt of social benefits, particularly emphasizing choices relevant to those unable to visit bank branches themselves.
To implement these non-cash payment methods effectively, provinces like An Giang are gearing up to pilot new payment systems. For example, social assistance will be offered directly to eligible individuals at home for those who require it, including seniors and disabled persons unable to travel. This measure addresses the difficulties some seniors face with utilizing modern banking systems, as highlighted by local authority statements, stating, “Payment through bank accounts is being promoted to streamline social insurance benefits delivery.”
Health care services for older adults are also set for enhancement. The government has outlined plans targeting 100% health insurance coverage for the elderly, with immediate access to primary health care services and regular health checks to monitor their well-being. Specific expectations have been set—by 2030, hospitals will need to provide separate care areas for older patients, ensuring their health needs are prioritized. Alongside this, 80% of elderly persons with severe health challenges will be supported by diverse health care methods.
Community engagement is another significant element of this strategy. The government aims to create at least 60% of localities with cultural and social clubs where seniors can engage recreationally, promoting physical activity and cultural involvement. These sites will not only help the elderly find social interaction but also help them stay active and mentally engaged, fostering community living. The vision includes ensuring 100% of seniors live free from housing insecurity, with plans to remove temporary or unsafe living conditions.
The Vision 2035 outlined by the Vietnamese government marks tremendous progress, pushing for the full integration of older citizens within society. It covers the need for assistance for vulnerable individuals, emphasizing legal aid services, healthcare access, and programs targeting the socio-economic barriers faced by older adults. The government aims to provide specialized care solutions to at least 10,000 older individuals lacking families and financial support.
Through decisions like the approval of national strategies and reforms on the ground, Vietnam's authorities are striving to create and implement frameworks for older citizens to live healthier, more dignified lives. This not only reflects the respect for their contributions but also addresses their needs, ensuring they have access to the necessary resources to thrive within their communities.
The initiative showcases Vietnam’s recognition of the importance of caring for its aging population, paving the way for future development policies aligned with the well-being of all citizens regardless of age. With these promising strategies, the country is setting the foundation for significant improvements, correlatively enhancing the well-being and quality of life for its senior demographics.