“2026 Seniors’ Joy Program (Phase 1)” — First Activity Brief

By Jennifer Zhang

On January 10, 2026, while winter rain poured outside, the atmosphere indoors was warm and welcoming. The Chinese American Community Health Services (CACHS) officially launched the first session of its 2026 “Happy Seniors” program at Jiayuan Adult Day Care Center as scheduled. Despite the inconveniences caused by the rainy weather, the seniors who registered for this session overcame transportation challenges and arrived at the venue early. We were deeply touched. Together, we celebrated a strong and successful opening for the new season of “Happy Seniors”.

The first health lecture was delivered by pharmacist Dr. Diane Yang, who presented on “Medication Safety Use at Home.” This topic is closely related to seniors’ daily lives. Drawing on his extensive professional knowledge and clinical experience, Dr. Yang began by discussing the serious consequences that can result from improper medication use. He then explained in detail different methods of taking medications—such as swallowing, dissolving under the tongue, chewing, and taking with water—as well as appropriate dosages and timing. He repeatedly emphasized the importance of consulting pharmacists and physicians thoroughly about all aspects of medication use.

Most practically, Dr. Yang highlighted common mistakes seniors make when taking medications at home and offered corresponding corrective measures. He also recommended a very useful website, https://www.drugs.com/drug_interactions.html,

which explains interactions among medications, foods, and drugs, as well as what to do in cases of incorrect medication use. Dr. Yang pointed out that storage temperature, humidity, and duration can all affect a medication’s effectiveness, reminding seniors to store medications properly. He stressed that medication duration should always follow medical advice and encouraged everyone to develop good medication-taking habits.

During the Q&A session, Dr. Yang patiently addressed questions one-on-one, helping many seniors resolve their everyday concerns and difficulties related to home medication use. The lecture lasted over an hour; the expert spoke with passion, and the seniors listened with great interest. Dr. Yang’s presentation received unanimous praise from the participants.

During the break, youth volunteers served delicious refreshments and tea. Their thoughtful and attentive service made the seniors feel truly at home.

After the short break, travel expert Mr. Bin Fang introduced several important historical sites and attractions in the greater Washington, D.C. area. Many of these landmarks are not widely known, and the presentation was both enlightening and inspiring for the audience.

Before the event concluded, Dr. Ningping Feng, Executive Director of CACHS, introduced the organization and highlighted its public service programs. These include the Chinese-language help hotline, free transportation services, free health screenings and medical consultations, online lecture series on senior health care and public medical benefits and health resources, as well as programs closely related to senior health and social engagement such as Happy Seniors and the English Club, senior health mutual-support WeChat groups, youth mental health initiatives, and community education on Alzheimer’s disease. Using a rich collection of photos documenting CACHS’s work in community health services, COVID-era vaccination efforts, and health service days over the years, Dr. Feng vividly demonstrated the organization’s tremendous efforts and outstanding contributions to community health.