Objective

To foster a national dialogue on addressing dementia as an emerging public health problem and formulating a strategy for developing Vietnam's national dementia plan.

Methods

In September 2018, the Vietnamese National Geriatric Hospital supported by University staff in Australia and the United States organised the first Vietnam National Dementia Conference in Hanoi.

Results

Over 270 Vietnamese dementia stakeholders and international dementia experts participated in the conference. The participants agreed dementia was a public health priority in Vietnam and identified the need for the development of Vietnam's national dementia plan. Policymakers supported positioning dementia as a priority in the national health agenda. Research institutions created collaboration to generate scientific information for policymaking process. Funding and international supports were obtained to develop Vietnam's national dementia plan.

Conclusion

Strong leadership, stakeholder engagement and international support are critical in raising awareness and advocating for the development of Vietnam's national dementia plan.