Understanding Levels of Care at The Western Lights Residences

We accept residents assessed at Level 3 through Level 6. Below is a guide to what each care level typically involves, including key indicators and support needs. This helps families understand placement criteria, service intensity, and how our team tailors care to each resident’s well-being.

Levels 1 & 2 – Minimal Support (Not Accepted)

Levels 1 and 2 reflect minimal to mild care needs. These individuals are largely independent and may not require structured or continuous supervision. In a licensed Adult Residential Facility (ARF), full-time placement is intended for individuals with measurable impairments, safety risks, or support needs—criteria that Levels 1 and 2 typically do not meet.

Level 3 – Moderate Assistance

Residents at this level are partially independent but need predictable, consistent help to function safely throughout the day. They benefit from structure and caregiver involvement across several tasks, though they do not require 1:1 supervision.

Common indicators include:
– Assistance with at least 2 ADLs (e.g., bathing, dressing, toileting)
– Mild cognitive impairments or task incompletion
– Medication reminders or assistance due to forgetfulness or noncompliance
– Safety supervision to prevent minor risks (e.g., misusing appliances, forgetting hygiene)
– Occasional behavioral redirection or emotional support
– Mostly independent mobility, with standby support as needed

Level 4 – High Assistance

This level supports individuals who need frequent, hands-on help with most daily activities and present with moderate behavioral, cognitive, or physical limitations. Structured supervision is key to prevent decline or injury.

Common indicators include:
– Hands-on help with 3 or more ADLs
– Unsafe medication behavior (e.g., refusal, overuse, confusion)
– Incontinence and full toileting assistance
– Behavioral supervision (e.g., wandering, agitation)
– Help with transfers (bed-to-chair, toilet-to-chair)
– History of falls, noncompliance, or self-neglect

Level 5 – Extensive Care

Level 5 residents are highly dependent and require full assistance across all aspects of daily living. They often have significant medical or behavioral complexities and require continuous oversight.

Common indicators include:
– Total support with all ADLs, including eating and ambulation
– Absent or severely impaired safety awareness
– Use of two-person transfers or mechanical lift equipment
– Severe behaviors managed through a formal plan
– Chronic conditions requiring daily tracking
– Limited ability to communicate or advocate for needs

Note: Increased staff ratios and documentation may be required. Collaboration with nurses or behavioral specialists is common at this level.

Level 6 – Intensive / Hospice Care

This is the highest level of care, provided to residents who are medically fragile, enrolled in hospice, or approaching end-of-life. The focus is on comfort, dignity, and proactive symptom management.

Common indicators include:
– Hospice agency coordination and physician-guided plan of care
– Bed-bound or profoundly limited mobility
– High risk for aspiration, infections, or pressure ulcers
– Advanced pain management with PRN and scheduled medications
– Inconsistent ability to express discomfort or needs
– Complex medication routines (e.g., injectables, opioids)
– 24/7 staff preparedness for urgent medical needs

All care is directed by each resident’s advanced directives and hospice protocols to ensure peace, comfort, and respect in every moment.