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.

2022 SEMINARS

Click “more information” for event details and to register online or call 405-563-7501

The Truth about Aging in America: Changing the narrative

January  13, 2022

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The world is changing at a rapid pace and if you don’t keep up, you’ll be left behind. This means flexing the muscles of adaptability, resilience, and curiosity. Gone are the days when elder family members were the only sources of knowledge, history, and wisdom. The internet has taken over. As a result, those currently tasked with writing the narrative about getting older are young, mis-informed, and often simply winging it! At this month’s seminar we will discuss how aging is portrayed and the ways in which today’s generation of mature Americans can change the narrative for the better.

Thursday January 13, 2022 at 10:00 – 11:30 am

Quail Creek Golf and Country Club

3501 Quail Creek Rd

Oklahoma City, OK 73120

The Truth about Retirement Community Living: Get the inside scoop

February  10, 2022

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More and more people are choosing to downsize, rightsize, or otherwise simplify their lives after retirement by moving to retirement communities. The decision about which community is the best fit isn’t always easy to make.

With so many to choose from – all of them having different amenities and pricing structures – how does one know which one is right for them? At this month’s seminar, we’ll talk with people who have “been there and done that.” Through live interviews with residents of local senior living communities, you will get the inside scoop on what it’s like to locate, relocate to, and live in a retirement community.

Thursday February 10, 2021 10:00-11:30 am

Quail Creek Golf and Country Club
3501 Quail Creek Rd
Oklahoma City, OK 73120

The Truth about Downsizing and Decluttering: Why start now?

March  10, 2022

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Chances are if you are like most Americans, you have more stuff than you need, want, or know what to do with. This is especially true if you have lived in the same house for over 25 years. So, if you are planning a future move or simply want to simplify life a bit, what do you do with all the excess?

Our topic this month addresses strategies for reducing the amount of clutter using methods like estate sales, donations, and online marketplaces. We will cover the costs for such services and the pro’s and con’s of each.

Thursday March 10, 2022 10:00-11:30 am 

Quail Creek Golf and Country Club
3501 Quail Creek Rd
Oklahoma City, OK 73120

The Truth about Getting Your Affairs in Order: Bad blood and blended families

April  14, 2022

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Estate planning is no longer as simple as having a last will and testament. Virtually every state has different laws on matters such as probate and inheritance, making who gets what a very complicated issue. This is especially true for blended families and those with otherwise ‘complicated’ relationships.

At this month’s seminar you will learn from local legal and financial services professionals as they discuss the pitfalls of poorly executed estate plans and best practices for ensuring your estate is handled according to your wishes.

Guest panelists include:

  • Jennifer Wright, Attorney, Ball, Morse & Lowe LLP
  • Kendra Barnes, Trust Officer, Arvest Trust and Wealth Management
  • John Branscum, Professional Guardian, Guardian Angel Eldercare Services

Thursday April 14, 2022 10:00 – 11:30 am 

Quail Creek Golf and Country Club
3501 Quail Creek Rd
Oklahoma City, OK 73120

The Truth about Paying for Senior Living: Understanding Medicare, Medicaid, Longterm care insurance, Veteran Benefits, life care and more

May 12, 2022

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This topic always attracts a completely full house and for good reason. It’s so confusing! The goal of this month’s seminar is to help attendees understand the differences in what each type of benefit covers (or doesn’t).

Not only will we have experts on Medicare and Medicaid (state health insurance), but we will also have guest panelists with expertise in longterm care insurance, veteran benefits, and life care options. Bring your questions and get ready to take a lot of notes.

Thursday May 12, 2022 10:00 – 11:30 am

Quail Creek Golf and Country Club
3501 Quail Creek Rd
Oklahoma City, OK 73120

The Truth about Scams: How con-artists use psychology against you

June  9, 2022

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Every time we think we have it figured out, a new scam appears. Yes, con-artists have been around forever, but with the advent of the internet, cellular phones, and email, they are becoming even more sophisticated. Add this level of sophistication to an aging society and you have a perfect storm. A scam storm.

This month’s seminar will certainly cover the most common scams impacting today’s mature adults, but it will go one step further. We will discuss the psychology behind the most effective scams and how you can protect yourself and those you care about from becoming the next victim.

Thursday June 9, 2022 10:00 – 11:30 am

Quail Creek Golf and Country Club
3501 Quail Creek Rd
Oklahoma City, OK 73120

 The Truth about Reverse Mortgage Loans

June  23, 2022

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Reverse mortgage loans have received a lot of media coverage and you have probably seen advertisements on the topic. Few people, however, truly understand how or why a reverse mortgage can be used in financial and estate planning. In this seminar we will answer these questions and more:

  • What is a reverse mortgage and who qualifies?
  • What are the costs associated with reverse mortgages?
  • How can a reverse mortgage be used to purchase a home?
  • What happens to my house if I move or pass away?
  • Who pays the taxes and insurance?
  • How is it possible to have a mortgage and no monthly payments?

If you are curious about the pro’s and con’s of reverse mortgages, join us for this FREE 90-minute educational seminar.

Thursday June 23, 2022 2:00 – 3:30 pm

Northwest Metropolitan Library
5600 NW 122nd Street
Oklahoma City, OK 74142

The Truth about Living with Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia:  Knowledge is power  

July  14, 2022

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The topic of dementia isn’t fun or sexy, but it is on the minds of people everywhere. As human beings, we love the fact that we are in control of our lives, so the idea of developing dementia can be terrifying. It’s also very confusing. There are many types of dementia, including Alzheimer’s Disease, so the information can be difficult to digest.

In this month’s seminar we will literally get a chance to “pick the brains” of experts in aging, neuro-science, and memory-care as they share the in’s and out’s of diagnosing, managing, and living with dementia.

Thursday July 14, 2022 10:00 – 11:30 am

Quail Creek Golf and Country Club
3501 Quail Creek Rd
Oklahoma City, OK 73120

The Truth about Driving after 80: Strategies for staying behind the wheel

August  11, 2022

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Having a car and our own set of keys ranks right up there with having air to breathe and fresh water to drink – it’s hard to imagine being without. That said, having a car and a license to drive (at any age) also come with a great deal of responsibility.

At this month’s seminar we will talk with healthcare, legal, and local law enforcement experts about the challenges associated with driving as we age, as well as strategies for safely remaining behind the wheel.

Thursday August 11, 2022 10:00 – 11:30 am

Quail Creek Golf and Country Club
3501 Quail Creek Rd
Oklahoma City, OK 73120

The Truth about Healthcare for Seniors: One size doesn’t fit all

September 8, 2022

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There are a plethora of treatments and medical breakthroughs allowing us to feel better and live longer, but how do we know which ones are right for us and where to access them?

Can we get the treatment we need in our hometown or must we go elsewhere?

Are hospitals all the same, or are some more equipped than others?

Are there medical professionals who specialize in treating older adults?

Get answers to these questions and more as we share what we have learned from medical experts, administrators, insurance providers, and marketing reps about navigating the rapidly changing healthcare system as we age.

Thursday September 8, 2022 10:00 – 11:30 am

Quail Creek Golf and Country Club
3501 Quail Creek Rd
Oklahoma City, OK 73120

The Truth about Moving to a Retirement Community (Library Series)

October 4, 2022

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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’s it like moving to an apartment with pets?
  • What do I do if my spouse doesn’t want to move?
  • If you had it to do over again, would you do anything differently?

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

Tuesday October 4, 2022 10:00 – 11:30am

Northwest Library
5600 NW 122nd
Oklahoma City, OK 73142

 

The Truth about Senior Living Options for People Who “Aren’t Ready Yet”

October 13, 2022

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While most agree that their current home is where their 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. When people retired at 65 and then only lived a few more years, staying put made perfect sense. Now, as people living well into their 80’s, 90’s and even 100’s, it’s simply not practical to assume one will live in the same place forever.

Learn about the many available options for mature adults including independent, assisted, and life care communities. Better to know it before you need it!

Thursday October 13, 2022 10:00 – 11:30am

Quail Creek Golf and Country Club
3501 Quail Creek Rd
Oklahoma City, OK 73120

 

The Truth about Touring Senior Living Communities (Library Series)

November 1, 2022

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Not sure where to start when it comes to researching senior living community options? This program will focus on helping attendees with these things and more:

  • What is the difference between an assisted living and independent living community?
  • How do I know where to begin when looking at the options?
  • What questions should I be asking when I look at various communities?
  • Why am I receiving so many marketing pieces and phone calls from retirement homes?
  • Why are the prices of different places unavailable online?

Marilyn Olson, Villages OKC, is the presenter.

Tuesday November 1, 2022 10:00 – 11:30am

Northwest Library
5600 NW 122nd
Oklahoma City, OK 73142

The Truth about Leaving a Legacy: Choosing how we are remembered

November 10, 2022

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We often associate the month of November with gratitude and giving thanks for the many blessings in our lives. It’s also a time for family gatherings and festivities, making it perfect for reminiscing and sharing family traditions. So, what happens to these traditions after you’re gone? Who will carry them forward into future generations?

During this month’s seminar we will discuss creative ways for equipping the next generation to tell our stories – now and after we’re gone.

Thursday November 10, 2022 10:00 – 11:30am

Quail Creek Golf and Country Club
3501 Quail Creek Rd
Oklahoma City, OK 73120

The Truth about Being a Friend to Those with Dementia (Library Series)

December  6, 2022

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What should I say? How should I act?

When someone is diagnosed with dementia, it can be hard to communicate this with those in your life. Friends and family mean well, but they may struggle to know what to say and how to react. As the disease progresses and symptoms are more pronounced, friends may stay away because they aren’t sure what to do, what to say, or how to be supportive. It’s during this time that family members and caregivers need friends the most. But what if people don’t know how to be a good friend with someone living with dementia?

In this program, guest presenters will share, from both personal and professional experience, the best way to continue being in relationship with those living with dementia.

Tuesday December 6th, 2022 10:00 – 11:30am

Northwest Library
5600 NW 122nd
Oklahoma City, OK 73142

The Truth about Living to 100: A new paradigm

December  8, 2022

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The most recent data indicates there are approximately 92,000 Centenarians living in the United States. This is up from 82,000 in 2016. While we may not “think” we will live this long, we certainly might. For some, this is exciting news, but for most, becoming a centenarian is not a rite of passage they ever considered. At this month’s seminar we will discuss the pro’s and con’s of living to be 100 or beyond, including money, housing, healthcare, purpose, and more.

Thursday December 8th, 2022 10:00 – 11:30am

Quail Creek Golf and Country Club
3501 Quail Creek Rd
Oklahoma City, OK 73120

MEET THE HOSTS

Nikki Buckelew, Ph.D.

Co-Host / Moderator

Chris Buckelew

Co-Host / Moderator

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING

EMPOWERMENT IN ACTION

2022 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. All seminars are live (both in person and online). We begin promptly at 10am and finish no later than 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. 

I AM A REAL ESTATE PRO. HOW CAN I LEARN MORE?

Seniors in every market across the country would love to have these seminars available. If you are a real estate professional specializing in the mature market and love to educate, empower, and equip others, check out the resources for offering seminars in your market at the Seniors Real Estate Institute.

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

Please feel free to contact us concerning questions you may have about downsizing, senior living options, 55+ neighborhoods, or other related topics. If our staff is unable to answer your questions, we will direct you to one of our many 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 more about serving mature homeowners. If you attend WITH a registered client, there is no fee for you to attend. The fee for business owners and aging services professionals not attending with a client is $25 payable upon registration. Due to limited seating, we reserve the right to provide priority seating to non-professionals at live seminars.

WHY IS THE EVENT FREE FOR SENIORS AND THEIR GUESTS?

As educators, we have strong convictions about ensuring that people are informed, empowered, and equipped as they research and prepare for senior living-related issues. Our education partners donate time and contribute toward event expenses so that ALL seniors are able to attend regardless of their financial situation.

IS THERE GOING TO BE A SALES PITCH?

Nope. No sales pitch. You will have an opportunity to get to know the presenters, panelists, and hosts and can decide for yourself if it makes sense to request their services or products. Presenters and speakers may have materials available for you to take home, but it’s up to you to pick them up if you want them.

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.

HOW DO I BECOME AN EDUCATION PARTNER?

Annual sponsorships are from January to December each year. The deadline for application is October 1st of the preceding year. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, please call 405.563.7501 to request a sponsorship packet or be placed on the waiting list for sponsorships as spaces are limited. Every sponsor must be fully vetted prior to being considered so please provide references and licensing information (if applicable) to expedite your application.

DO YOU OFFER SEMINARS OUTSIDE OKC?

We currently offer seminars in the Oklahoma City metro area. There are similar programs in other parts of the country as well, so just email or call us and we can direct you to the ones we know about.