Manulife Asia Care 2026 Survey: Vietnamese Prioritize Financial Independence in Old Age
Increased life expectancy not only extends life but also presents new challenges regarding dependency in later life. Results from the Manulife Asia Care 2026 Survey of 1,000 Vietnamese people reveal a notable trend: maintaining an independent and self-reliant lifestyle in old age is becoming a top priority for Vietnamese people.
Longer life expectancy means a period of dependency that is becoming increasingly pronounced—a reality that is reshaping how Vietnamese people view old age. According to the Manulife Asia Care 2026 survey, in old age, Vietnamese people are expected to require an average of 10 years of care from others and 13 years of financial support. For those over 60, the period requiring financial support is longer, extending to 15 years, while the period requiring care is 9 years.
Living expenses during this period are also a significant concern, averaging about VND 11.8 million per month, according to survey participants’ estimates, placing considerable additional pressure on individuals and families.
Given this reality, many people are paying closer attention to their ability to be self-reliant and do not want to depend on or become a burden to their families. The survey shows that as many as 89% of Vietnamese people believe that their own financial independence and self-sufficiency are the “legacy” they wish to leave their families, while 57% hope not to become a burden on their loved ones.
This trend is reshaping how finances are allocated within families. Rather than saving for their children, those surveyed plan to allocate the majority of their financial resources to providing for themselves in their later years. Specifically, about two-thirds of their assets are prioritized for maintaining their own standard of living, thereby reducing the burden on their families.
This shift is also clearly reflected in how Vietnamese people prepare financially for the future. As many as 81% of respondents said they would rely on their personal savings to cover expenses, while only 21% expect to receive support from their children—indicating a shift away from the traditional model of dependency. Notably, 86% believe that maintaining financial and health independence is more important than the value of assets left to future generations.
To achieve an independent and self-directed retirement, many Vietnamese are focusing on two key pillars: finances and health.
On the financial front, the trend toward proactivity is becoming increasingly clear. To ensure future financial security and stability, many have begun to diversify their financial resources through various means. Specifically, 51% are increasing their savings, 45% are purchasing health insurance and related insurance products, and 26% are investing in mutual funds.
When it comes to investing, although the needs are very clear—with 53% wanting to achieve financial independence and autonomy in their later years, 48% want a stable income to cover living expenses, and 46% are concerned with flexibility and liquidity in their investments—in reality, only about one in four people (27%) have shifted toward investments that generate cash flow. This gap indicates that existing needs have not yet been translated into commensurate action, particularly in building a source of income for later life.
Additionally, 69% expressed a desire to continue working past age 65, reflecting a new definition of retirement: one that is more active and proactive. This indicates a desire to maintain an active lifestyle and continue participating in economic activities during later life.
Regarding health literacy, the majority of survey participants have a high level of awareness about preventive health care, but there remains a gap between awareness and action. As many as 91% believe that early screening helps reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and 91% believe that regular health checkups help maintain the ability to care for oneself for longer. However, actual behavior does not yet match this awareness, as only about 40% maintain a regular exercise routine and 31% undergo regular screenings. This gap highlights the urgent need to translate awareness into action if we are to maintain a high quality of life in the long term.
In addition to financial and health preparations, proactively discussing retirement plans within the family plays a crucial role but is often overlooked. Survey results show that as many as 81% of Vietnamese people believe that open and early conversations about retirement needs will significantly improve their quality of life in the future.
However, many have not yet initiated these conversations because they find it difficult to broach the subject or are hesitant to discuss sensitive topics such as aging, illness, or financial responsibilities within the family. Given this reality, having the support of experienced financial and insurance advisors can help individuals feel more confident in initiating these necessary conversations, while also becoming more proactive in planning for the future.
Ms. Tina Nguyen, CEO of Manulife Vietnam, shared: “The survey shows that Vietnamese people are changing their perspective on aging—it is no longer seen as a phase of dependence but rather as a journey that requires proactive preparation. Independence—both financial and health-related—is increasingly viewed by many as a meaningful ‘legacy’ they leave for their families. This highlights a growing need for solutions that help customers proactively manage their future and reduce the burden on their loved ones.”