Talking to Lao Dong Newspaper, People's Artist Trinh Kim Chi - Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City Theater Association - said that the artists living at Thi Nghe Nursing Center do not have pensions.
The reason is that most stage artists of the previous generation were freelancers, did not work permanently in any unit and did not participate in social insurance for enough time to enjoy retirement benefits.
Although there is no monthly pension, artists are supported by Ho Chi Minh City with 2.65 million VND/person/month.
In addition to cash support, artists are provided with lifelong free care at Thi Nghe Nursing Center. Accommodation, living and health care are all taken care of by the center.
According to People's Artist Trinh Kim Chi, the center arranges a separate medical room, regularly monitoring the health of the elderly. Artists are checked monthly and supported in treatment when medical problems arise.
This is especially necessary because the artists are all old, have deteriorated health and suffer from many underlying diseases. Some people have difficulty walking, have to use wheelchairs or need staff support in daily life.
As of the end of July 2026, Thi Nghe Nursing Center is taking care of 5 veteran artists, including Meritorious Artist Dieu Hien, artist Ngoc Dang, artist Lam Son, artist Mac Can and artist Huynh Thanh Tra.
Among them, artist Ngoc Dang is the oldest, turning 99 years old. She was injured after a fall, her health and mobility were affected. Artist Mac Can, at the age of 81, also suffers from many old age diseases but still maintains an optimistic spirit and love for writing.
Previously, in February 2024, Ho Chi Minh City received 7 people from the Stage Artist Nursing Home and cases added to the Thi Nghe Nursing Center. The relocation is to ensure that artists have better living conditions, especially regular medical care.
After moving to a new residence, the two members passed away. Artist Ngoc Be, real name Le Thi Tam, passed away in 2024. Ms. Dang Thi Xuan - a backstage worker who was in charge of costumes for the Ho Chi Minh City Hat Boi Art Troupe - passed away in 2024, at the age of 78.
