When it comes to supporting older adults, Vietnam’s capital Hanoi has come up with a simple yet powerful solution: get the community involved. In a city known for its rich history and bustling streets, Hanoi’s approach to aging is all about creating spaces where older adults can support one another, share resources, and stay actively engaged. The best part? It’s working.
The Power of Self-Help Clubs
In Hanoi, the real magic happens through something called “Intergenerational Self-Help Clubs.” Sounds impressive, right? These clubs were started by the NGO HelpAge International and quickly became the backbone of community support for older adults across the city. They’re run by older adults, for older adults—and that makes all the difference. (helpage.org/oldernotover)
These clubs do more than just provide a place to gather. They offer everything from healthcare and social activities to small loans that help older adults start their own businesses or improve their income. Think of it as a community-led support system where seniors are the key players, making decisions about what they need and how to run the show.
The Impact? It’s Big.
Over the span of just a few years, the self-help clubs in Hanoi have racked up some pretty impressive results: Members have raised over $17,000 to keep their operations running smoothly. They’ve provided small loans to nearly 400 older adults, helping them boost their incomes and maintain financial independence. On top of that, they’ve helped almost 100 community members access essential home care services.
And here’s the kicker—nearly every club member (99.5%, to be exact) says the clubs have made their communities stronger and more united. That’s what we call a win.
What Can We Learn?
The success of Hanoi’s Intergenerational Self-Help Clubs shows us that when older adults are given the tools and autonomy to help themselves and their neighbors, they thrive. These clubs not only foster a sense of purpose and connection, but they also provide practical support that helps seniors live more independently. Thanks to the McKinsey Health Institute (MHI), we are learning a great deal about this and other examples.
So, what can cities in the U.S. take from this? It’s simple: empowering older adults to take charge of their own communities isn’t just a feel-good move—it’s an effective way to improve well being, strengthen social bonds, and even stimulate the local economy. Programs like this could be a game-changer for cities looking to create more inclusive, age-friendly environments.