Meet Lincoln's Newest Bickford Family Member, Kayla Manley, joining us as Activities Director-- Hello, everyone, my name is Kayla! I was born and raised in Lincoln, Nebraska, and for the past 14 years, I’ve built my career in informal education and nonprofit work that truly matters to me. I spent nine of those years working directly with youth ages 2–18, creating engaging, supportive spaces where young people could learn, grow, and feel seen. Over the last five years, my focus shifted to supporting my team more behind the scenes—coaching, mentoring, and encouraging staff as they grew into confident, capable professionals. I am excited to step into the role of Montessori Engagement, as it feels both meaningful and full-circle. My passion for connection, compassion, and lifelong learning was shaped early on through a close relationship with my grandparents. They taught me the importance of being a steady, loving light—especially in moments that aren’t always easy. I bring warmth, energy, and a genuine love for people into everything I do, and I look forward to sharing my smile and my talents with the Bickford Family! If you see me while you are here, please say “Hello”! -Kayla

At Bickford Senior Living, we believe confidence, dignity, and self-care are important at every stage of life. When you feel good about how you look, it shows in your smile, your energy, and the way you approach each day. That’s why our residents love visiting our on-site Bee Hive Salon — a welcoming space where a fresh haircut, style, or little pampering helps them feel refreshed, confident, and truly themselves. These moments of care aren’t just about appearance; they’re about feeling uplifted and valued. #BickfordofLincoln #BickfordSeniorliving #AssistedLivingSalon

HigherPath works because it flips the script on traditional senior living. Instead of waiting for falls, hospitalizations, or health declines and then reacting, this model focuses on preventing those things in the first place. It’s proactive, intentional, and rooted in the belief that aging does not automatically mean decline. What makes it powerful is the coordination. Care teams are aligned. Communication is consistent. Small changes are caught early. Residents are supported holistically, physically, emotionally, and socially, rather than being treated as a list of diagnoses. When care is delivered this way, seniors stay stronger, safer, and more independent for longer. I’ve seen firsthand how proactive monitoring, early intervention, and real collaboration reduce unnecessary hospital visits and improve quality of life. HigherPath isn’t about doing more tasks, it’s about doing the right things at the right time with purpose. Senior living works best when leadership is present, care is intentional, and residents are truly known. That’s what HigherPath is built on, and that’s why it works. Aging well is possible when the system is designed to support it. #HigherPath #BickfordSeniorLiving #SeniorLivingDoneRight #ProactiveCare #AgingWell #HealthcareLeadership #ResidentCenteredCare #WellnessFocused #QualityOfLife #SeniorCareInnovation

Life sounds better together. Moments like these—live music, shared laughter, and familiar faces—are part of everyday life at Bickford of Lincoln. Our residents enjoy more than just a place to live; they enjoy connection, creativity, and a community that feels alive. If you’re beginning to explore senior living for yourself or someone you love, we invite you to come see it firsthand. Walk the halls, meet our residents, and experience the welcoming atmosphere that makes Bickford of Lincoln so special. Come for a tour and discover the joy, friendship, and moments that make our community feel like home. Contact Karryn at 402-429-0496 today.

Life sounds better together. Moments like these—live music, shared laughter, and familiar faces—are part of everyday life at Bickford of Lincoln. Our residents enjoy more than just a place to live; they enjoy connection, creativity, and a community that feels alive. If you’re beginning to explore senior living for yourself or someone you love, we invite you to come see it firsthand. Walk the halls, meet our residents, and experience the welcoming atmosphere that makes Bickford of Lincoln so special. Come for a tour and discover the joy, friendship, and moments that make our community feel like home. Contact Karryn at 402-429-0496 today.

Meet Our Director of Health and Wellness Framel M. Thompson Sr. (Mel), RN proudly serves as the Director of Health and Wellness at Bickford Senior Living. This role is more than a leadership position, it is a responsibility rooted in purpose, integrity, and a deep commitment to quality care. Mel brings years of hands-on clinical experience across multiple healthcare settings, including senior living leadership, hospice care, and regulatory oversight. He has been with Bickford since late 2025, spending that time intentionally training, learning the culture, and preparing for a role that would allow him to make a meaningful impact. Mel is now fully immersed in the position and in full swing, applying his experience and passion to elevate care and support both residents and team members. Mel’s background as a Registered Nurse has shaped a leadership style that prioritizes safety, dignity, accountability, and meaningful human connection. He believes strong clinical leadership is the foundation of exceptional resident outcomes and a confident, supported care team. Mel is a strong advocate for Bickford’s HigherPath Model and fully supports its proactive, collaborative, and resident-centered approach. The HigherPath philosophy aligns with Mel’s belief that care should focus on prevention, early intervention, and whole-person wellness rather than reactive treatment. By emphasizing coordination, consistency, and intentional care planning, this model helps residents maintain independence and quality of life. Mel’s leadership philosophy is simple: care should be intentional, teams should be supported, communication should be clear, and residents and families should always feel heard. He is committed to building strong relationships with residents, families, staff members, and healthcare partners to create an environment where everyone can thrive. With high standards, an open-door leadership style, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Mel looks forward to continuing the HigherPath mission and elevating the level of care for every resident served. #BickfordSeniorLiving #HigherPath #DirectorOfHealthAndWellness #MelRN #NurseLeadership #SeniorLivingCare #HealthcareExcellence #ProactiveCare #ResidentCentered #WellnessLeadership #TeamDriven #AgingWell

Today was one of those days that just felt right. Touring Bickford of Lincoln reminded me that “assisted living” isn’t about giving something up—it’s about gaining comfort, community, and peace of mind. From the warm smiles to the cozy spaces and thoughtful care, every detail felt intentional and welcoming. There’s something special about walking into a place and realizing, this could be home. A place where you’re supported, known, and truly cared for. A place where the next chapter feels safe, joyful, and full of life. If you or someone you love is searching for that “forever” assisted living home, call us today to schedule a tour (402)-420-6058 #BickfordofLincoln #Bickfordseniorliving #Tourtoday

It’s a beautiful day to step outside and enjoy the beautiful courtyard and soak up a fresh dose of Vitamin D ☀️

Start the New Year off Right! There's no better time to explore what vibrant senior living looks like. Give us a call and set up a tour of our community and discover a place where comfort, connection. and care come together for you and your loved one. *Beautiful, homelike spaces * Engaging activities and personalized care * A welcoming team ready to do whatever it takes Make 2026 the year of new beginnings! Schedule your tour today and see why so many families call our community home. Call today (402)-420-6073 #BickfordSeniorLiving #BickfordofLincoln #NewyearNewhome

New year, new chapter—let’s make it a great one together! Looking ahead to 2026 and want peace of mind for someone you love? Let Bickford of Lincoln help you kick off the year right with a cozy, family-friendly, and energized community where your loved one can feel right at home. From warm smiles to engaging activities and supportive care, we’re here to make every day feel meaningful (and fun!).