Investing proactively in the future

Vietnam is facing one of the world’s fastest rates of population aging. Yet, regrettably, many people still adopt a “wait until the last minute” mindset, only paying attention to old age when illness and declining health are already looming.

The consequences of this lack of preparation are evident in many families. Many older people, having overworked themselves when they were young, neglected proper nutrition, paid little attention to physical exercise and failed to build up financial savings, face numerous chronic diseases in later life. Poor health coupled with financial hardship can place a heavy burden on their children. Intergenerational conflicts, economic pressures on younger family members, and the loneliness and vulnerability experienced by older people can create a painful vicious cycle.

In response to this challenge, the Ministry of Health’s Circular guiding the implementation of a number of contents under the National Target Program on healthcare, population and development for the 2026-2035 period has set out timely orientations. The Circular clearly states that preparation for old age should begin while people are still young, with a focus on equipping those aged 40 and above with the necessary knowledge and skills. This marks a strategic shift from passively responding to aging to proactively preparing for it.

Comprehensive preparation requires three core pillars. First, in terms of healthcare and lifestyle, giving up unhealthy habits, maintaining regular physical activity and undergoing routine health check-ups from an early age can help reduce chronic diseases and future treatment costs. Second, in terms of finance and social security, participating in social and health insurance schemes and building savings early can provide a strong safety net, helping older people maintain financial independence. Third, the State is gradually strengthening the capacity of the social care network and investing in and expanding facilities for older people.

Old age is a natural stage of life that no one can avoid. Instead of waiting until old age arrives before struggling to find a way forward, young people today should regard investing in their health and financial security as the most valuable investment they can make in themselves. Proactive and thorough preparation from an early stage is not only a practical gift to oneself but also an effective way to ease the burden on future generations.

Chuc Huyen