Vientiane: Ho Chi Minh City: Ho Chi Minh City is entering a period of rapid population ageing, creating an urgent need to strengthen and expand its long-term care system for the elderly. As of November 30, the city had around 1.6 million residents aged 60 and above, accounting for 11% of its population - the highest number of elderly nationwide. The pace of ageing has been faster than projected, placing growing pressure on the healthcare system and social welfare services. The Department of Health plans to work with relevant agencies to develop a master plan for the city's elderly care system for the 2025-2030 period and beyond, aiming to build a connected, multi-tier long-term care ecosystem centred on the needs of older people in response to rapid population ageing and in support of the city's sustainable development goals.
According to Vietnam News Agency, the city is focused on creating a comprehensive plan that will address the multifaceted needs of its ageing population. The proposed multi-tier system is intended to ensure that services are not only accessible but also tailored to the varying levels of care required by the elderly. This plan will incorporate health management, social support, and community involvement to create a robust support network for older residents.
The Department of Health is collaborating with various stakeholders to ensure that all aspects of elderly care are covered. This includes enhancing healthcare services, improving infrastructure, and facilitating community programs that encourage active ageing. The initiative is also aimed at integrating technology to better monitor and support the elderly, thereby optimizing resource allocation and service delivery.
The city recognizes the importance of addressing this demographic shift promptly to maintain its socio-economic stability. By establishing a well-coordinated elderly care ecosystem, Ho Chi Minh City aims to not only meet the immediate needs of its senior citizens but also set a precedent for other regions facing similar challenges in the future.