SOCIO-CULTURAL LIFE AND COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION OF URBAN OLDER ADULTS: A CASE STUDY OF PHU DINH WARD, HO CHI MINH CITY

Abstract

Based on survey data, this study examines the socio-cultural life of older adults in Phu Dinh Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, through their participation in community activities. The findings show that older adults primarily participate in community activities related to health care, the Association of the Elderly, and social interaction. The main barriers to participation are poor health, lack of companions, and distance to activity venues. Therefore, most older adults expressed a desire for a multifunctional “Cultural Space” that could meet their needs for health care, social interaction, learning, and personal development.