Social Support of Religious Institutions for Older Adults from Difficult Families in Vietnam today: Situation and Challenges

Abstract

The paper studies the current situation and challenges faced by the Buddhist and Catholic religious organizations in providing social support for older adults from difficult families in Vietnam. A literature review and the analysis result of secondary data and their website content indicate that there are three primary forms of social support provided by religious organizations as follows: healthcare services for older adults, the establishment of social support facilities, and social assistance for older adults in the community. Among these, social support facilities have acquired some characteristics of social work activities. The paper also identifies challenges and proposes recommendations for religious organizations in offering social support for older adults in Vietnam today.