SENIOR LIVING TRUTH SERIES

 

Candid conversations concerning today’s senior living issues and options.

Providing education and resources designed to help people live empowered lives and make informed decisions.

EDUCATE. EQUIP. EMPOWER.

The Truth about Choosing Your Forever Home: Staying Put or Moving On

January  12, 2023

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Maybe you’ve decided to stay in your current home and “make it work” or is it possible you’ve decided to sell your current home and buy another one in preparation for getting older. Some people call this next home their “Forever Home.” Either way, you’ve made a choice to avoid moving into a retirement community.

The question is, do you know what you will need to equip your current home (or the next one) for the long haul?

Learn the TRUTH about what sociologists call “Aging in place.” Gain insight into why it’s talked about regularly by politicians, marketers, and healthcare agencies and why most people do a lousy job at preparing for it!

Thursday January 12, 2023 at 10:00 – 11:30 am

Atrium at Crossings Community Church

14600 N Portland

Oklahoma City, OK 73134

Smart and “Not so Smart” Accessibility Ideas for Your Home (Library Series)

January 24, 2023

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Planning to stay in your current home for the long haul? If so, you’ll want to know the most up to date accessibility features designed to make your life easier. Our panel of experts and education partners will share gadgets, tools, and strategies for helping you live safely and comfortably.

We also want to help you make wise decisions when it comes to advertisements targeting older homeowners.

Tuesday January 24, 2023 10:00-11:30 am

Northwest Library
5600 NW 122nd St
Oklahoma City, OK 73120

The Truth about Retirement Living: What to expect in the next decade

February 9, 2023

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As the demographics change in our country (and around the world), namely more people who are over 65 than under, a lot of changes are on the horizon. Residential living arrangements will need to evolve; employers will be required to adapt; the healthcare system will likely undergo a major overhaul; and families will have to rethink the caregiving role, to name a few.

There are already questions being posed such as:

● Will there be adequate housing (accessible, affordable, and suitable) to meet the increasing demand?
● How will the current healthcare system change to meet the needs of the growing number of older people?
● Who will care for those without family support and/or financial resources?
● Should people retire at 65-70 or is it better to keep working longer?
● Are local cities equipped to deal with the transportation needs of an aging community?
● How will families adapt to better care for aging parents and relatives?

The goal of this talk is to help attendees think ahead about ways to prepare for potential changes and to ensure they have adequate support if needed changes don’t come soon enough!

Thursday February 9, 2023 10:00-11:30 am 

Atrium at Crossings Community Church
14600 N Portland
Oklahoma City, OK 73134

Planning for long-term care costs: Resources and Benefits (Library Series)

February  14, 2023

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According to statistics, most of us (90%) will require care (beyond what our family can provide) as we age. For some it will be temporary and for others it may be a permanent need. Join us to learn what programs and benefits might be available to help offset the costs of such care.

We will have expert panelists on Medicare, Medicaid, Veteran Benefits, Tribal Benefits, and Longterm Care Insurance.

Tuesday February 14, 2023 10:00 – 11:30 am 

NW Library
5600 NW 122nd St
Oklahoma City, OK 73120

The Truth about Senior Living Care and Costs: Why so expensive? 

March 9, 2023

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While most agree that our current home is where our heart is, we must also consider the fact that our hearts (and our stuff) may require new living arrangements to suit our changing lifestyle and healthcare needs over time. As people living well into their 80’s, 90’s and even 100’s, it’s statistically likely residential care will be necessary – maybe for months, or maybe for years. This may not be good news, but it is the truth.

The biggest question people have is, “How will I afford this care?”
The second question often asked is, “Why is it so expensive?”

In this seminar we are going to explore the answers to BOTH of these questions. Learn the truth about various senior living options, their associated costs, and what factors contribute to costs that might be higher than most of us would prefer.

Thursday March 9, 2023 10:00 – 11:30 am

Atrium at Crossings Community Church
14600 N Portland
Oklahoma City, OK 73134

Introduction to Continuing Care Retirement Communities (Library Series)

March 14, 2023

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You may have seen advertisements for 55+ retirement communities referred to as CCRC’s or Continuing Care Retirement Communities. Or, maybe you have heard or read the phrase “Life Care Contract” when it comes to such places.

What does this all mean?
What do they offer?
Why do some people choose this particular retirement living option?

Join us for a panel of professionals and residents from various local Continuing Care Retirement Communities who will help answer your questions about pricing, services, amenities, and more.

As always … no sales pitch, just great information!

Tuesday March 14, 2023 10:00 – 11:30 am

NW Library
5600 NW 122nd St
Oklahoma City, OK 73120

The Truth about Letting Go of Stuff: Downsize or Declutter?

April 13, 2023

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If you’re moving from a bigger place to a smaller one, you know you’ll need to downsize. When you realize your things have taken over your life, you may be ready to simplify, so decluttering could be the answer. Simple, right?

Unfortunately, letting go may not always be as easy as it may seem. Regardless of your reason for letting go of excess stuff, emotional considerations and logistical challenges can slow you down. Where to donate gently used items, how to pass along family heirlooms, and ways to get some extra cash for once high ticket furniture can hamper the romantic notion of a simple weekend project.

In this seminar we will be discussing the differences between the declutter mindset and the downsizing mindset and will share strategies for each process. We will uncover both the psychological and societal phenomenons at play when it comes to the disposition of household goods. And, we will share the current and future realities of estate liquidation services and antique dealers.

Thursday April 13, 2023 10am – 11:30am

Atrium at Crossings Community Church
14600 N Portland
Oklahoma City, OK 73134

Trash or Treasure? Get the real value of classic collectibles (Library Series)

April 25, 2023

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Do you have collections you have been holding onto for decades and expect to sell for big money? Maybe you have Kachina dolls, model cars, train sets, Hummel figurines, beanie babies, or sets of fine china dishes. These treasures have been purchased on trips, gifted to you on special occasions, or you have sought them out as a hobby over the years. Now, it’s time to let them go. What is the best strategy and what can you expect to get for them?

Join us for a candid conversation about the value of household items, antiques, and other collectibles at this month’s Truth Series program. Ask the pros about what you might expect when selling items you have been hanging onto and the best way to go about saying goodbye.

Tuesday April 25, 2023 10:00 – 11:30 am

Northwest Library

5600 NW 122nd Street, OKC

  The Truth about Selling the Family Home: Value or convenience?

May  11, 2023

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Whether you’re considering selling your own home of many decades, or you’re tasked by your family with selling the home you grew up in, you probably have questions about the best way to proceed.

  • Do I empty the home first? If so, how?
  • Should we update, renovate, or make repairs? If so, to what extent and at what cost?
  • Is it possible to simply sell it “as is?”
  • What if we let the grandson move in temporarily?

And the list goes on.

In the midst of conflicting information, competing marketing messages, and a changing real estate market and landscape, it’s hard to know what and who to believe. What is a fair offer? How is market value determined? What costs are involved in selling and who pays them? Are there legal or tax implications to be aware of? How do I get family members to agree?

Get the answers to these questions and more at this month’s seminar.

 

Thursday May 11, 2023 10:00 – 11:30 am

ATRIUM at the Crossings Community Church
14600 N Portland, Oklahoma City, OK

(Follow the purple signs leading to the NE side of the campus)

Smart and “Not so Smart” Accessibility Ideas for Your Home 

May 23, 2023

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Planning to stay in your current home for the long haul? If so, you’ll want to know the most up to date accessibility features designed to make your life easier. Our panel of experts and education partners will share gadgets, tools, and strategies for helping you live safely and comfortably.

We also want to help you make wise decisions when it comes to advertisements targeting older homeowners.

Tuesday May 23rd @ 10am

NW Library
5600 NW 122nd St
Oklahoma City, OK 73142

The Truth about Estate Planning: Trusts, Wills, and Guardianships

June 8, 2023

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Times have certainly changed regarding the way estates are handled after someone passes away. It’s not as simple as one may think, especially when the wishes of the deceased were never specified in writing.

But what documents are necessary and most appropriate?

How do these instruments work within the probate process?

Expert panelists will discuss the TRUTH regarding differences between trusts and wills, as well as how these documents can impact both the living and the dead.

Another important issue concerning legal guardianships will also be discussed. In particular, how guardianships can be necessary in cases when individuals become incapacitated. In other words, the TRUTH about ensuring your wishes are followed and needs are met should you become dependent upon others.

Moderator: Nikki Buckelew

Panel: Jennifer Wright, Attorney; Arvest Bank Trust and Wealth Mgmt, Shannon (attorney)

Thursday June 8, 2023 10:00 – 11:30am

Atrium at Crossings Community Church
14600 N Portland
Oklahoma City, OK 73134

 

Who am I now? Creating Community & Purpose as We Age 

June 13, 2023

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Choosing to live a life with purpose and meaning as we get older is sometimes easier said than done. This panel of senior adults will share ways they have found to embrace life and create a sense of community. If you are looking for inspiration, motivation, or helpful resources, this is the seminar for you.

Tuesday June 13, 2023 10:00 – 11:30am

NW Library
5600 NW 122nd St
Oklahoma City, OK 73142

The Truth about Staying in Control: Communicating with Adult Children

July 20, 2023

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Are you finding that your kids who are now grown adults are beginning to assert control into your life? Do you welcome this engagement, or do you find it frustrating and unnecessary? For those who would like to have a healthy collaboration with their offspring as they get older, it’s important to have an open line of communication. Join us for a conversation about how to create healthy and mutually beneficial alliances with your adult children as you get older.

Thursday July 20, 2023 10:00 – 11:30am

Atrium at Crossings Community Church
14600 N Portland
Oklahoma City, OK 73134

 

The Truth about Holding a Family Meeting

July 25, 2023

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You know it’s time to have a serious talk with your kids, family members, or friends about what’s important, but you aren’t sure how. Now’s the time to learn.

In this class you will receive a sample outline for holding a family meeting, example invitation, talking points, and strategies for broaching the tough topics. You owe it to yourself to have your wishes known and your family will thank you for it!

Tuesday July 25th 10am – 11:30am

Northwest Metro Library

5600 NW 122nd St

Oklahoma City, OK 73120

The Truth about Buying after Retirement

August 2, 2023

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Considering buying a home after retirement? Learn what you need to know about 55+ and low maintenance options, neighborhood associations, condo requirements, mortgages versus cash, VA financing and more!

Tuesday August 2nd

10am – 11:30am

Northwest Metro Library

5600 NW 122nd St

Oklahoma City, OK 73120

The Truth about Retirement Community Moves: Downsizers tell all

August 10, 2023

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What is it like moving to a retirement community? These active seniors will share their experiences of finding, moving to, and living in 55+ senior communities in and around the Oklahoma City metro area. They will answer questions like these and more:
● How long did you think about moving before you did it?
● How did you decide what community to move to?
● What are the pro’s and con’s of downsizing to a smaller place?
● What were the biggest challenges with relocating and how did you handle them?
● What do I do if my spouse doesn’t want to move?

Audience members will also get a chance to ask questions of the panelists. Write down what you are curious about and get registered today.

Thursday August 10, 2023 10:00 – 11:30am

Atrium at Crossings Community Church
14600 N Portland
Oklahoma City, OK 73134

The Truth about Later-in-Life Moves: Prioritizing what matters most 

August 22, 2023

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Leaving a home of many years and moving into a smaller home, apartment, or other residence can seem like an overwhelming task. And while it’s a significant undertaking, it can be easily managed when you have a proven plan, a capable and qualified support team in place, and a positive “can-do” attitude.

So, if you’ll bring your can-do spirit, we will bring the rest!

Tuesday, August 22, 2023

10am – 11:30am

Northwest Library

5600 NW 122nd St

Oklahoma City, OK

The Truth about Advertising: How marketers use psychology to make you buy

September 14, 2023

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Presented by Dr. Nikki Buckelew and Deputy Tara Hardin, OK County Sheriff’s office

Every time we think we have it figured out, a new scam or marketing scheme shows up. While con-artists have been around forever, they aren’t the only ones trying to get into your bank account or pocket. The level of sophistication in advertising combined with an ever-increasing transactional style of doing business makes it hard to tell the difference between a scam or just “smart” marketing for otherwise worthless products.

This month’s seminar will cover both current scams and misleading marketing campaigns that can eat into the savings accounts of even the most intelligent and savvy consumer. We will also discuss the psychology behind these tactics and how to best protect yourself AND your bank account.

Thursday September 14th, 2023 10:00 – 11:30am

Atrium at Crossings Community Church
14600 N Portland
Oklahoma City, OK 73134

The Truth about Choosing an Advocate: Who they are and what they do 

September 19, 2023

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The Truth about Choosing an Advocate: Who they are and what they do

 

The word advocate comes from Latin advocare, to “add” a “voice.” To advocate is to add a voice of support to a cause or person. Everyone needs an advocate!  Whether it’s a family member or a family friend, we all benefit from having another set of eyes and/or ears when we are stressed, ill, or physically recuperating from disease or disability. We may also need an advocate when in the hospital, have legal challenges, or have been wronged. So, who can we turn to? Who are some trusted advocates you might turn to in the absence of a friend or family member, or when you need more than they can provide. 

Join us for this panel discussion and opportunity to share with one another about Oklahoma advocates! 

Tuesday, Sept. 19, 2023 @ 10am

Northwest Library

5600 NW 122nd Street

Oklahoma City, OK 73120

The Truth about Death, Dying, and Funerals: Navigating end-of-life decisions

October 5, 2023

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Despite the statistic that says 100% of us will die at some point, it’s not a subject that is openly discussed. Undoubtedly this reality is contemplated by some, accepted by a few, and avoided by most. Why is this? What is it about death and dying that makes people squeamish? Death and birth are bookends to a life cycle which has been true since the beginning of time – yet the end of one’s life is often met by surprise or astonishment. Me? Really? Surely not.

When people choose to avoid the reality of eventual death, they often leave behind a proverbial living hell for the ones left behind. Families find themselves struggling to make sense of legal, financial and business matters when their focus should be on emotional healing and supporting those in mourning.

Make the commitment to bring a loved one or friend and attend this 90-minute panel event featuring expert panelists who will share the most important things you need to know about living, dying, and leaving a legacy on your terms. This could quite possibly be one of the most important seminars of the year.

Thursday October 5th, 2023 10:00 – 11:30am

Atrium at Crossings Community Church
14600 N Portland
Oklahoma City, OK 73134

The Truth about Leaving your Legacy: Writing, recording, and sharing memoirs 

October 24, 2023

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With families spread out all over the globe and juggling home and career, quality time is at an all time low. It’s time we get creative about how we preserve our family histories and leave an intentional and meaningful legacy for the generations that follow. New technologies and innovations in publishing now make creating books and digital diaries easy, affordable, and most importantly, personalized.

Join us as we discuss new and innovative ways to keep your family history alive for generations to come. Get insight into what today’s generations want to know and the best way to share it with them.

Northwest Library

5600 NW 122nd Street, OKC

10:00am – 11:30am

The Truth about Taxes, utilities, and home repairs: Saving money for senior  homeowners 

Thurs. November 9, 2023

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Saving money is important, but especially on a fixed income. One of the perks to being over 65 is being able to take advantage of a few cost-saving programs designed especially for senior homeowners.

Learn from this panel of experts a few of the ways to save money on home repairs, utilities, taxes, and more.

Thursday November 9th, 2023 10:00 – 11:30am

Atrium at Crossings Community Church
14600 N Portland
Oklahoma City, OK 73134

The Truth about Dealing with Dementia: Unexpected Gifts

Tues. November 28, 2023

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A diagnosis of dementia or increasing problems with memory often result in a flurry of emotions, multiple complex questions, and the need for long term planning. One of the biggest questions tends to be how long can (or should) I live at home? Couples struggle to agree on whether to remain in place or relocate, when and who to hire for support, and how to have conversations with others about their plans. Gain important insights into these questions and more from this panel of professionals and laypersons.

Tuesday, November 28th at 10am-11:30am

Northwest Library, 5600 NW 122nd Street, OKC

The Truth about Memories and Legacy: Rethinking the Purpose of Possessions

December 14, 2023

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When you look around your home at all the things you have collected over the years, what do you see? How do you feel? Now, ask yourself what others see, feel, and experience as they look around your home. Do they feel the same way you do about your items, or might they see them differently?

A shift is occurring as it relates to the value of household goods, collectibles, furnishings, and other personal possessions. This shift certainly has something to do with changes in how people live today versus yesterday.

But could it be more significant than that? Could it be a reprioritization of what is truly important?

If so, what does this mean for the disposition of our treasures?

Thursday December 14th, 2023 10:00 – 11:30am

Atrium at Crossings Community Church
14600 N Portland
Oklahoma City, OK 73134

MEET THE EVENT TEAM

Nikki Buckelew image

Nikki Buckelew, Ph.D.

Co-Host / Moderator / Founder
Chris Buckelew, Senior Living Truth Series

Chris Buckelew

Co-Host / Operations / Founder
Danielle Erickson photo

Danielle Erickson

Attendee & Education Partner Relations
Jake Stover image

Jake Stover

Attendee Support & Operations

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING

EMPOWERMENT IN ACTION

2023 Education Partners

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

HOW LONG IS THE SEMINAR?

Most seminars are about 60 minutes followed by a 30 minute Q & A. Some run longer depending on the depth of the topic and the number of panelists. We begin promptly at 10am and finish at 11:30am.

CAN ATTENDEES ASK QUESTIONS?

Yes! We want you to get your questions answered. Keep in mind that because we do our homework, many of your questions will likely be answered throughout the prepared panel discussion. If you still have an unanswered question at the end, you will have an opportunity to ask. We do request that if you have a specific question that is personal in nature (i.e. can’t be generalized to the group) that you request a consultation with one of our team members following the event.

CAN I ATTEND IF I’M NOT A SENIOR?

We welcome anyone who believes the information would be valuable to them. If you are not a senior, but you are seeking information to advise someone who is — or maybe you are planning ahead — please join us.

HOW CAN I SHARE THE RECORDED VERSION WITH FRIENDS?

Thank you for helping us share our messages with others who may be interested in certain topics. Please direct people to this website and let them know that recorded seminars are posted within a few days after the live event. Simply click on the Video Replay tab at the top of the page.

I WOULD LIKE TO START OFFERING SEMINARS IN MY AREA. HOW CAN I LEARN MORE?

We are often asked if these programs are being held outside OKC.  If you are a real estate agent or business professional passionate about serving the mature market and want to give back to your community by educating, empowering, and equipping others, you can learn more at Seniors Real Estate Institute.

WHAT IF I HAVE QUESTIONS AND CAN’T MAKE IT TO THE SEMINAR?

Please feel free to contact us concerning any questions you may have. If our event team is unable to answer your questions, we will direct you to one of our many education partners and subject matter experts who will be happy to assist you.

CAN I ATTEND FOR BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT PURPOSES?

We always welcome service providers and business owners seeking to learn. Due to limited seating, we reserve the right to provide priority seating to registered senior adults. We have a VERY STRICT no solicitation / marketing policy and if you pass out business cards, wear branded clothing, or attempt to network with education partners for personal gain, we will ask you to leave. All attendees must check in and provide contact information.

HOW IS THIS PROGRAM FUNDED?

Education partners donate time, money, space, and resources so that programming can be provided at no cost.

CAN I DONATE TO THE SERIES?

We are often asked by attendees if they can make a donation. While we appreciate the gesture, we are not currently set up to accept financial donations. If you would like to contribute to our efforts, please let us know and we can discuss ways in which you might do so.

WHY ARE SOME TOPICS REPEATED?

It’s important to note that even if a title seems repetitive, we can never duplicate any of our programs! With different panelists, new perspectives, and updated information, we work really hard to never do the same topic the same way twice. Even variations in audience questions make for a unique event. While the title may sound similar, the content is always fresh.

IS THERE GOING TO BE A SALES PITCH?

Nope. No sales pitch. You will have an opportunity to get to know the presenters, panelists, hosts, and education partners and can decide for yourself if it makes sense to request their services or products. Presenters and speakers will likely have materials available for you to take home, but it’s up to you to pick them up. From time to time we share opportunities for additional educational programs or workshops which may or may not have fees involved. These are only meant as learning opportunities – never an endorsement of services or advertisement for any specific business or organization.

CAN I REQUEST A TOPIC FOR THE NEXT SERIES?

Absolutely! We want to make the Senior Living Truth Series as meaningful and relevant as possible, so we welcome your suggestions and ideas. Naturally, we prepare the topics for the series well in advance, so be patient concerning time frames for your suggested topic to hit the calendar. In addition, if we are unable to incorporate a topic into this series, we may collaborate with education partners to offer it in another program or at another venue.

HOW DO I BECOME AN EDUCATION PARTNER?

Annual partnerships are limited and include a January to December commitment. The deadline for application is November 1st of the preceding year. Those interested in becoming an education partner can contact our event team at 405.563.7501 to request a sponsorship packet or to be placed on the waiting list. Every sponsor must be fully vetted prior to being considered so please provide references and licensing information (if applicable) to expedite your application. Those recommended by a regular attendee or current educational partner are given priority in the application process.

DO YOU OFFER SEMINARS IN OTHER AREAS?

We currently offer the Senior Living Truth Series® in the Oklahoma City metro area. Because Nikki and Chris Buckelew train and coach people all around North America, there are similar programs with different names in other parts of the country including cities in Nevada, Texas, Kansas, Missouri, Indiana, Iowa, California, Oregon, Maryland, District of Columbia, Michigan, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Florida, North Carolina, Colorado, and more are being added regularly, so just email or call us and we can direct you to those we know about.