Community programs like the AACI Senior Wellness Programs (SWP) play a vital role in enhancing quality of life for older adults, helping them stay connected, active, and engaged. For Po, an immigrant from Taiwan, this sense of community that AACI’s SWP offers came naturally. In the 1980s, Po settled into a home that soon became the heart of his new life in America. Joined by his family, the house bustled with sounds of his children growing up, doing homework at the kitchen table, laughter echoing through the hallways, and the constant motion of a family. But as his three children grew into adults and moved away to raise families of their own, that same house grew quiet. Now, Po spends most of his afternoons alone, cooking meals for one and taking isolated walks around his neighborhood.

At 76, with an empty nest and his family spread across the state, his days had become lonely. While Po was able to indulge in self-made meals and listen to the radio, he never complained about doing things alone. However, the distance from his family meant sharing many of life’s simple joys happened less often than he’d like.

Po wasn’t the only one who noticed. A friend, knowing what it was like to navigate life as an older adult, suggested AACI’s Senior Wellness Program (SWP). Po was intrigued and decided to visit. When he arrived, he connected with Eunice Cheng, SWP manager, who took the time to understand what he was looking for. The warmth and welcoming atmosphere immediately drew him in. That first day was three years ago, and it changed Po’s daily routine completely.

“Everyone is great, kind, and helpful. If you have any questions, you can ask them, and they’ll help find a solution.” Po reflects warmly.  

From the beginning, Po threw himself into everything the SWP had to offer. Eunice helped him sign up for classes that matched his interests, and Po eagerly embraced each opportunity. Soon, he was attending exercise classes twice a week, never missing a session. “I joined classes like Tai Chi; it has made me stronger and more active,” Po shared with pride. But it wasn’t just about the exercise. Po found joy in every movement, connecting with his peers and discovering new passions. His enthusiasm became contagious. One staff member even mentioned that Po enjoys dancing so much that he didn’t just participate, he led a dance for the SWP team during last year’s Lunar New Year event, bringing everyone together with his energy and spirit. Po had found more than just a way to stay healthy; he’d found a fun way to thrive, dancing with his friends and fully immersing himself in the community.

Po also joined AACI’s Senior Nutrition Program (SNP), where he found more than a meal, he found a community. The SNP provides freshly cooked meals for older adults three times a week. The lunch program has become a cornerstone of his weekly routine: “The lunch program makes my life easier. I don’t need to cook so often. I feel healthier. A bit more active, and I make more friends too!”

Now, Po’s days overflow with laughter, movement, and shared stories over delicious meals. He’s found a community at AACI that provides both health and happiness, a place where he can lean on others for support and simply enjoy life together. Po no longer walks alone, and he’s made sure others don’t have to either. He now encourages his own friends and family to join him at AACI, excited to share the sense of belonging he’s discovered.

To learn more about AACI Senior Wellness Program, please visit www.aaci.org/wellness/senior.