The program was launched to commemorate the 85th anniversary of the Traditional Day of Vietnamese Elderly People (June 6, 1941/June 6, 2026), aiming to promote the dissemination of the Party's guidelines and the State's policies and laws on caring for, protecting, and promoting the role of the elderly; and at the same time, to raise awareness among all levels, sectors, and society as a whole about healthcare in general and eye health in particular for the elderly.

Medical statistics show that in Vietnam, there are currently about 2 million people who are blind, with 70% due to cataracts – a treatable disease if detected early. Notably, the majority of blindness cases occur among the elderly, directly affecting their quality of life and ability to care for themselves. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that there are more than 43 million blind people and 295 million people with moderate to severe vision impairment, with about 80% of the causes being preventable or treatable. This further emphasizes the urgent need for eye care for the elderly in the context of Vietnam's rapidly aging population.

At the event, approximately 200 elderly people received free eye examinations.

Through close coordination between the Vietnam Association of the Elderly and the health sector, specialized eye hospitals, organizations, businesses, and philanthropists, millions of elderly people have received information, advice, and screening for eye diseases; many elderly people in difficult circumstances have received support for treatment, cataract surgery, and vision restoration, regaining their sight and joy in life. The program not only contributes to reducing the rate of vision loss and blindness among the elderly but also helps many elderly people continue to work, live, and participate in social activities, reducing the burden on their families and communities.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Nguyen Thanh Binh, Vice Chairman of the National Committee on the Elderly of Vietnam and President of the Vietnam Association of the Elderly, emphasized: “The humanitarian program 'Bright Eyes for the Elderly' for the period 2025-2028 demonstrates the profound concern of the Party, the State, and the entire society for the elderly generation. This is not only a practical activity to care for the health and spiritual life of the elderly, but also a concrete action to promote the wisdom, experience, and role of the elderly in the new development stage of the country.”

Mr. Ly Minh Tuan, representing the Thien Tam Foundation of Vingroup , stated that the Foundation has implemented numerous social welfare activities nationwide, particularly in the healthcare sector. Since 2019, the Foundation has collaborated with specialized eye hospitals to organize free cataract screenings and surgeries for the elderly, the poor, and those in difficult circumstances. By the end of 2025, the program aims to have successfully supported 25,000 surgeries. In 2026, the Foundation is committed to providing 20 billion VND in funding for the "Bright Eyes for the Elderly" program nationwide, contributing to restoring sight and improving the quality of life for disadvantaged people.

At the event, approximately 200 elderly people received free eye examinations and consultations. Notably, 50 cases will receive free cataract surgery. This is a deeply meaningful humanitarian activity, aimed at caring for the eyesight and improving the quality of life for the elderly.

    Source: https://www.qdnd.vn/y-te/tin-tuc/200-nguoi-cao-tuoi-duoc-kham-tu-van-mien-phi-cac-benh-ve-mat-1042437