People with pensions have the opportunity to live longer
According to the General Statistics Office, in recent years, the average life expectancy of Vietnamese people has increased rapidly from 65.5 years old in 1993 to 74.5 years old in 2023.
This number is a good thing and besides, there is a reality that not everyone knows, that is, the majority of people with pensions are living longer than those without pensions.
According to previous statistics from the Ministry of Labor, War Invalids and Social Affairs, the average life expectancy of pensioners is about 78 years, 4-5 years higher than the average life expectancy of the whole country.
This shows that pensioners have a better quality of life, better health care, and do not have to work hard to make a living when they are old, so they often have a longer life expectancy.
This difference not only reflects the difference in income or living conditions, but also shows the role and effectiveness of social insurance policies, especially pensions, in prolonging life and improving the quality of life for the elderly.
Many reports also show that pensions ensure a stable source of income for the elderly, do not have to depend on children or grandchildren, and do not fall into difficult circumstances. The factor of economic stability is the foundation for maintaining a positive mental state, reducing anxiety and stress - factors that directly affect the health of the elderly.
reality also proves that pensioners have easier access to health care services, screening for chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, high blood pressure - which are common diseases in the elderly and have a great impact on human life expectancy.
For the elderly with pensions to make ends meet, they do not need to make a living when they are old and have the conditions to participate in community activities, light sports, senior clubs, ... helping to improve mental health and have a happy and true old age.
The report of the Ministry of Health in 2024 shows that about 65% of elderly people in Vietnam have not yet enjoyed the State's social assistance policy.
As a result, many people have no choice but to continue working until they are exhausted or depend completely on their children and grandchildren, greatly affecting both physical and mental health.
Many elderly people do not have a pension, so they still have to pick up scrap metal, sell lottery tickets or do heavy work even though they are old.
The role of pensions in the health and happiness of the elderly
Ensuring financial security and reducing stress
Pensions provide a stable source of income, helping the elderly cover basic living expenses such as food, other living expenses without having to depend entirely on their children or continue to work hard. Financial security significantly reduces stress and anxiety - factors that often have a negative impact on the health of the cardiovascular and immune systems of the elderly.
Better access to healthcare
People with pensions are granted free health insurance cards, so they have better conditions to access health care services, paid by the health insurance fund for medical examination and treatment, and treatment of chronic diseases and terminal diseases if they are unfortunately sick. No need to worry about the economy when you are unfortunately sick or ill.
Nutritional quality is guaranteed
With a monthly pension, the elderly have a stable source of income to maintain a more nutritious and scientific diet. They can buy fresh, diverse food that suits the health needs of the elderly, instead of having to eat comfortably and lacking in nutrients.
Better living conditions
Pensions can help the elderly improve living conditions, such as repairing their homes, creating a safer and more comfortable living environment. This is especially important in preventing accidents and falls - one of the leading risks to the health of the elderly.
A more active lifestyle and a richer spiritual life
When there is no longer a burden of making a living, pensioners have more time and more opportunities to participate in social activities, culture, sports, ... helping to improve their mental health. They can join senior clubs, travel, learn new skills, and meet friends.
These activities not only help maintain physical health but also significantly improve spiritual life, reducing the risk of diseases such as depression or dementia.
Less hardship in old age
People without pensions often have to continue working to make a living, even when their health has declined. Overwork, especially in heavy work, can exhaust health and shorten life expectancy.
For those with pensions, most of them do not need to continue working, because pensions have basically met all the minimum living needs of the elderly.