Việt Nam's elderly care crisis sparks a $2.21 billion industry transformation

Việt Nam's elderly care sector is expanding rapidly as demand for professional services grows. With the market valued at US$2.21 billion in 2023, companies are now partnering with hospitals to improve care standards. One family's struggle highlights the need for trained support in a country where millions will soon require assistance. Nguyễn Thị Trang, a resident of Bàn Cờ Ward in HCM City, faced daily challenges caring for her 82-year-old father after his stroke. He needed help with basic tasks, but Trang lacked medical training and felt overwhelmed. Hiring an untrained caregiver led to complications, including bedsores from improper care.

Professional services eventually stepped in, providing daily visits for hygiene, tube feeding, and rehabilitation. Over time, Trang's father regained movement and could remain at home with his family. His recovery came after structured support replaced unreliable care. The sector is evolving as major firms collaborate with medical institutions. bTaskee has teamed up with the University of Medicine and Pharmacy in HCM City to launch bCare, a professional home care service. NovaGroup is also working with the same university to build a network of high-quality general clinics. Other providers are raising standards too. Bluecare follows Dutch sterilisation and care protocols, while eDoctor has partnered with Việt Nam-Australia Family Health Services to adopt a one-doctor-one-nurse model. WeCare 247, managing 1,800 to 1,900 caregivers, now integrates its services into hospitals nationwide. Demand is set to surge. The United Nations Population Fund estimates 20 million potential elderly care customers in Việt Nam by 2035. Market projections suggest growth from $2.21 billion in 2023 to nearly $4.8 billion by 2031, at an annual rate of 7.7 percent.

For families like Trang's, professional care has made a measurable difference in recovery and daily life. As partnerships between companies and hospitals strengthen, more elderly residents will access trained support. The sector's expansion reflects both rising demand and efforts to improve service quality across the country.