Hanoi, Dec 28.- Vietnam promotes a greater attention to the elderly, who now represent almost 11 percent of the total population, showing a rapid aging.
Deputy Prime Minister Vu Duc Dam emphasized the need to provide a better health service to this population group equivalent to more than 10 million, which 18.6 percent are 80 or older, while 65.7 percent live in rural areas and about 22 percent in poor households, according to official data.
During a conference of the National Committee of Elders of Vietnam (CNAV), carried out here yesterday, it was clear the need for the development of a standardized system in health centers and in the community, especially in rural and mountainous areas, the media stresses.
In addition, it was pointed out that the Ministry of Health and Social Security work together in the preparation of health records of the population, which will benefit the elderly and children in the first place.
On the other hand, the Ministry of Education and Training, as well as the relevant agencies, to develop apprenticeship programs for the elderly and to design public buildings that are friendly to them.
As part of efforts to support this age group, many localities in the country apply policies in their favor, such as transportation tariffs discounts, including a 15 percent reduction in train and plane tickets, it was known in the conference.
Meanwhile, CNAV members proposed a number of recommendations in this regard, especially for the elderly from poor localities and ethnic minorities.
It was also encouraged the movement among the elderly to perform physical exercises and to honor companies, organizations and individuals with outstanding achievements in the implementation of policies to support these people.
They also requested more resources for the implementation of projects and programs related to this sector.