Cataracts are the leading cause of vision impairment, accounting for 47.8% of cases, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). In Vietnam, the Ministry of Health reports that cataracts are the primary cause of blindness (66.1%), mainly affecting people over 50.

Cataracts cause blurred vision and can lead to complications like glaucoma, pain, and irreversible vision loss, significantly impacting the lives of older adults. Many Vietnamese parents dismiss blurred vision, difficulty reading, or slow movement as typical signs of aging. Others, reluctant to burden their children, endure these inconveniences until symptoms worsen before seeking help.

An elderly person undergoes an eye exam and cataract treatment at Sai Gon Ngo Gia Tu Eye Hospital. Photo: Hospital provided

An elderly person undergoes an eye exam and cataract treatment at Sai Gon Ngo Gia Tu Eye Hospital. Photo: Hospital provided

In Vietnamese culture, expressions of love between parents and children are often shown through actions rather than words. Supporting aging parents during health challenges becomes a powerful way to express unspoken love.

This support can begin with regular eye checkups for parents. Learning about common eye conditions can help families identify early signs and take appropriate preventive measures. Financial assistance and emotional support during treatment can also reassure parents and strengthen family bonds.

When parents struggle with new technologies or medical advancements, children can help by researching modern treatments. Cataract treatment has seen significant progress with the introduction of bladeless phacoemulsification. This technology uses laser waves to break down cataracts and incorporates AI for incision planning and image diagnosis, resulting in a nearly painless procedure. Recovery is faster, and post-surgery vision is significantly improved. Bladeless phacoemulsification has received approval from international organizations like the FDA (US) and CE (Europe), and many specialized medical facilities, including Sai Gon Eye Hospital, have successfully implemented it.

Doctors at Sai Gon Eye Hospital use bladeless phacoemulsification for cataract treatment. Photo: Hospital provided

Doctors at Sai Gon Eye Hospital use bladeless phacoemulsification for cataract treatment. Photo: Hospital provided

Cam Lua recently brought her 56-year-old mother to Sai Gon Ngo Gia Tu Eye Hospital for bladeless phacoemulsification surgery. Her mother, born with hearing and speech impairments, relied solely on her sight to connect with the world. Cataracts and corneal scarring had nearly extinguished her ability to see light. "Thanks to the doctors' dedication and advanced technology, the surgery exceeded our expectations," Lua shared.

Sai Gon Eye Hospital System reports increased inquiries about bladeless phacoemulsification during this Vu Lan season (a Buddhist holiday honoring parents). Many people are scheduling procedures to restore their parents' sight. Each checkup, word of encouragement, and treatment decision from children helps maintain their parents' quality of life.

Sai Gon Eye Hospital provided partial financial support for Cam Lua's mother's treatment. Photo: Hospital provided

Sai Gon Eye Hospital provided partial financial support for Cam Lua's mother's treatment. Photo: Hospital provided

Many readers emphasize that caring for parents is a year-round responsibility, but Vu Lan offers a special opportunity to express gratitude and filial piety.

Kim Anh

Established in 2004, Sai Gon Eye Hospital, a member of the World Association of Eye Hospitals (WAEH), is a trusted provider of eye care. Sai Gon Eye Hospital has performed over 600,000 successful surgeries and has been recognized as the "Specialized Hospital of the Year across Vietnam" for three consecutive years (2023, 2024, and 2025) by the Healthcare Asia Awards.

From 1/8 to 31/9, Sai Gon Eye Hospital offers special promotions every Wednesday:

: Four free upgrades (daily) to specialist phaco consultations for patients over 55 at hospitals offering this service.

: An additional 400,000 VND discount for consultations and surgery bookings on the same day.

: Health insurance is accepted, regardless of residency, without referral paperwork.

Patients and their families can also attend eye care workshops and receive gifts. For details about promotions and surgery scheduling, call 1900 555 554 or visit the website.