Since 2011, Vietnam has officially entered the aging phase, with one of the fastest rates globally, according to the General Statistics Office.
By 2030, the country is projected to have approximately 18 million people aged 60 and above, accounting for about 18% of the population. Recently, in discussing Resolution 72, Party and State leaders emphasized the need for healthcare and “loneliness prevention” for the elderly, particularly those aged 70–80.
How Are the Elderly Cared for in Other Countries?
In Vietnam, there are currently only about 400 elderly care facilities, half of which are operated by the state or charitable organizations. This number is quite modest compared to the rapid aging population and the growing demand for a comprehensive living environment for the elderly.
Studies show that the need for a senior-friendly environment is crucial. In Japan, the elderly prioritize a healthy lifestyle: maintaining a balanced diet, staying optimistic, connecting with nature, and actively engaging with the community. This is the secret behind Japan’s consistently high life expectancy and healthy aging rates globally.
In the U.S., the “Continuing Care Retirement Community” (CCRC) model has emerged, offering multi-tiered services from independent living with medical supervision to specialized care for chronic illnesses.
In Europe, aging nations like Germany, Sweden, and Australia have developed comprehensive living ecosystems. These spaces go beyond sturdy homes, integrating healthcare, community activities, and emotional support for a safe and connected environment.
Vietnam is beginning to establish similar retirement centers, attracting many overseas Vietnamese returning to their roots. According to Peter Hồng, Vice Chairman of the Association of Vietnamese Entrepreneurs Abroad, about 5.5 million Vietnamese live globally, with over 20% at or nearing retirement age. Most express a desire to return to Vietnam to live, invest, and reconnect with their heritage. In Australia, an internal survey by the Association found that 170,000 out of 350,000 Vietnamese expatriates wish to return home in their later years.
This is attributed to affordable retirement costs, especially healthcare, and a close-knit community. However, not all retirement models succeed. International experience highlights the importance of building retirement centers within a comprehensive ecosystem, rather than isolated projects.
Multi-Utility Urban Development – Peaceful Retirement for the Elderly
Just under an hour’s drive south of Hanoi, Sun Group is pioneering an eco-friendly living space with Sun Urban City. Spanning 420 hectares but with only 18% construction density, the project meets the essential criteria for a nature-connected, community-focused environment ideal for retirement.
Nature-connected living at Sun Urban City in Hà Nam. (Photo: Minh Khánh)
The developer demonstrates a sustainable vision by designing amenities catering to all ages, from children to seniors. Each subdivision features 2–3 inner gardens, forming a network of mini-parks within the living space. The five major parks are designed with distinct functions, ranging from sports and entertainment to water parks, eco-spaces, and cultural-artistic venues.
At the 22-hectare Sports Park, alongside modern facilities like tennis courts, football fields, volleyball courts, basketball courts, yoga spaces, artificial rock climbing, colorful running tracks, and a four-season pool, there’s also a dedicated sports club for seniors. Here, they can exercise, join qigong or yoga classes, or participate in group activities.
Eco-friendly and sports amenities for a healthy lifestyle. (Photo: Sun Property)
Another major advantage is the accessibility to comprehensive public and private healthcare within a few kilometers. The second branches of Bach Mai and Viet Duc hospitals, expected to open by late 2025, along with the 24/7 Sun Family Clinic developed by Sun Group, create a complete healthcare ecosystem. This meets all needs, from basic care to specialized treatment, serving all ages, especially seniors retiring in place.
Within the metropolis, a modern senior care center offers diverse services: nursing homes, daytime care, and in-home services. These centers ensure health and safety while easing worries for children working remotely.
Modern healthcare system for peaceful retirement at Sun Urban City. (Photo: Ánh Dương)
Especially, in line with East Asian values emphasizing intergenerational bonds, the living environment at Sun Urban City is designed for every family member to find joy and peace. In the coming decade, millions of Vietnamese seniors will need safe, comfortable spaces with integrated healthcare and community amenities. Sun Urban City fully meets these needs.
