The challenge of an aging population

Vietnam is entering a period of rapid population aging, posing a challenge to its healthcare and social security systems. According to the General Statistics Office, about 60% of older adults in Vietnam have poor to very poor health. With age, the body gradually declines, showing common signs like muscle mass loss, reduced mobility, and a weakened immune system, which directly impacts quality of life.

These signs are evident in daily life. Le Thi Thao, 60, from Hanoi, finds familiar activities like climbing stairs or cleaning her home more difficult, leading to prolonged aches and fatigue. Dong Thi Huong, just over 50, also experiences declining stamina and more frequent minor illnesses. Experts state that these everyday experiences highlight the need for a comprehensive, proactive, and early-start model of care for older adults, rather than focusing solely on treatment once a disease has progressed. Proactive healthcare models also offer older adults the opportunity to maintain mobility, live independently, and actively participate in family and community life.

At the "National Health Day" launch rally (7/4) on the morning of 5/4 in Hanoi, Minister of Health Dao Hong Lan emphasized that the health sector faces many challenges: increasing non-communicable diseases, population aging, climate change, the risk of new epidemics, and issues of mental health and nutrition. This requires the participation of society, with each individual playing a central role in proactively monitoring, maintaining, and improving their health. Healthcare should not only occur when problems arise but must be continuous throughout the lifespan.

To realize the goal of universal healthcare, Vietnam is promoting specific actions. Resolution 282, a government action program, aims to ensure regular health check-ups for citizens, working towards free annual examinations and screenings for everyone.

Health check-up activities at the National Health Day launch rally on the morning of 5/4 in Hanoi. Photo: Manh Thang

Abbott partners for healthy aging

For over 30 years in Vietnam, global healthcare company Abbott has actively participated in improving public health through comprehensive solutions, ranging from nutrition and pharmaceuticals to diagnostic technology and medical devices.

Healthy aging is a cornerstone of the strategic partnership between Abbott and the Vietnam Young Physicians' Association. Since early 2026, the two parties have collaborated to implement the initiative "Elderly healthcare - for a healthier Vietnam" in Hanoi, providing general check-ups, early disease risk screening, and muscle mass health assessments for over 1,000 older adults.

Abbott collaborated with the Vietnam Young Physicians' Association to implement the initiative "Elderly healthcare - for a healthier Vietnam" in January in Hanoi. Photo: Manh Thang

The program facilitates early detection of health issues and raises awareness about the role of nutrition and a healthy lifestyle in maintaining physical condition and quality of life in old age. According to medical experts, nutrition is fundamental for maintaining and restoring muscle mass, a crucial factor for older adults to retain mobility, boost immunity, and live independently longer.

In response to National Health Day on 7/4, themed "Proactive disease prevention - for a healthier Vietnam", Abbott continues to partner with the Vietnam Young Physicians' Association to provide free health check-ups, consultations, and screenings for thousands of people, helping to spread the spirit of proactive healthcare in the community.

"Previously, I only focused on exercise, but through this program, I realized nutrition is equally important, and both need to be balanced," shared Tran Anh Tuan, 65, from Hanoi, after his health check and consultation.

Older adults at the National Health Day rally. Photo: Manh Thang

Douglas Kuo, Vice President and General Manager of Abbott Vietnam, stated that programs under the "for a healthier Vietnam" framework, in collaboration with the Vietnam Young Physicians' Association, demonstrate Abbott's long-term commitment to partnering with Vietnam to improve public health, especially in elderly care. "Healthy aging is a crucial foundation, and Abbott is proud to join hands in helping older adults live healthier and more fulfilling lives through proactive healthcare and scientific nutrition," he affirmed.

Kim Anh