Survey on rehabilitation needs and associated factors among older adults at Thong Nhat Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, in 2025

Abstract

Background: The aging population in Vietnam is increasing rapidly, leading to a growing burden of chronic diseases and a rising demand for rehabilitation services among older adults. However, this demand has not been fully assessed, particularly at tertiary hospitals. Objective: To determine the prevalence and associated factors of rehabilitation needs among older adults at Thong Nhat Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, in 2025. Subjects and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 427 older adults (≥60 years) who attended outpatient or inpatient services at Thong Nhat Hospital from September to November 2025. Results: The proportion of older adults with rehabilitation needs was 72.6%, with a mean score of 25.6 ± 3.3. The highest demand was recorded in mechanical therapy techniques, especially full-body exercise (69.4%) and assisted-device training (64.5%). Rehabilitation needs were significantly associated with female gender (OR = 1.78; p = 0.008), age group 60–69 (OR = 1; reference), and having three comorbidities (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Rehabilitation needs among older adults are common and influenced by various demographic and clinical factors. Appropriate rehabilitation programs should be implemented at tertiary hospitals to effectively meet the care needs of the aging population.