Ho Chi Minh City promotes day-care centers for elderly as population ages rapidly

The department said population aging is becoming a major challenge for the city’s healthcare and social welfare systems.

Ho Chi Minh City had an estimated 1.7 million residents aged 60 and older as of June 30, making up more than 12 percent of the population, according to the department.

The city has the fastest rate of population aging in Vietnam, exceeding earlier projections.

The growing and diverse needs of residents aged 60 and older require flexible care models adapted to the metropolis’ urban and cultural conditions.

As of October 30, the city had 27 public and private social care centers serving more than 1,500 elderly residents, including one public and 26 private facilities.

Most follow traditional residential models, and officials said there is a shortage of specialized geriatric staff, high-quality centers, and support for low-income seniors who do not qualify for social welfare.

Authorities are promoting day-care facilities where seniors attend during the day and return home in the evening to diversify services, support physical and mental health, and reduce the burden on families.

The city will continue to expand regular health screenings for elderly residents, ensure full and continuous medical record management, and detect non-communicable diseases early.

Officials are finalizing a draft plan for nursing-home development through 2030, with day-care centers as a key component.

The plan aims to provide safe, high-quality, and accessible services while attracting investment, training staff, and planning facility locations.

The Department of Health has said it will consult experts, agencies, and social organizations through workshops to complete the plan.