Abstract Background Dementia is a global public health priority. The World Health Organization adopted a Global Action Plan on Dementia, with dementia awareness a priority. This study examined the knowledge, attitudes, and self-confidence with skills required for providing dementia care among primary health care providers in Vietnam. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted with 405 primary health care providers who worked at commune health stations and district health centers in eight provinces across Vietnam. Results The results showed that primary health care providers had poor knowledge and little confidence but more positive attitudes toward dementia care and management. Conclusions The results suggest the training needs for building capacity amongst primary health care providers, which will be critical as Vietnam’s population ages.