Away from Poverty

It seems nearly impossible to eliminate poverty but it is always good news when the level of poverty decreases. This is the recent case in Vietnam! In fact, "the poverty rate in ethnic-inhabited areas decreased from 47 percent in 2006 to 28.8 percent in 2010." Such change is due to Programme 135 (Phase 2) implemented with the goal of improving the quality of life in rural areas. In Phase 1, the program has helped reduce the country's overall poverty rate from 47% in 2005 to 35% in 2008. Now, the country is in Phase 3.

Additionally, Vietnam is no longer considered a low-income country, but a middle-income country. Just two decades ago, Vietnam was still one of the world's poorest countries. Even though the country struggles with other financial issues, the recent change shows that businesses are improving, suggesting that Vietnam is economically expanding and people's lives are much better. This is because of increased GDP (growth domestic product), which is often tied to the standard of living.

With positive changes away from high poverty rates and low incomes, people's lives are much better. This shows that programs have been implemented effectively, though there are always room for improvements. A better quality of life for the working class means a better quality of life for the elders. Traditionally, Vietnamese emphasizes filial piety. And so, it is expected for the children to care for their aging parents. With more people swaying from poverty and having the financial means to take care of themselves, they will more able to take care of the elderly. This also means that the elders will more likely accept assistance from their children. Though filial piety and reciprocation are emphasized in the culture, some elders don't want to burden their children and choose to live independently, preferring to deal with the situations themselves even when they are not competent. There are elders who are forced to rely on their children, even when their children are in financial troubles. This brings about emotional disturbance and guilt. Nevertheless, improved conditions provide the opportunities for children to offer a helping hand.

Note that this post is not meant to say that Vietnam is without poverty issues. It is still facing problems especially in the two major urban areas of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Nevertheless, plans and implementations are works in process.

Population Expansion

Vietnam is a Socialist Republic located in Southeast Asia. Though small in size, it is the 13th most populated country in the world, with over 89 million inhabitants. According to a 2010 estimation, about 26% are 0-14 years of age, ~68% are 15-64 years old, and ~6% are 65 years and over. Though the "elders" make up only a small percentage of the population, most of the population is in the aging process. The children make up one-third of Vietnam's population. That is about 23 millions children, which is a tremendously large number. However, with the nation expanding and transitioning into a developing country, health will be a major concern. Very much like the United States, Vietnam will have a problem when then the baby boom generation ages. Health policies and solutions in Vietnam is different from those in the U.S., but when coupled with the developments in the country, it raises a warning flag. People will demand more as Vietnam gains more. Several political, economical, and social issues be will critical in understanding what the current and future elderly will face.