Residents of the integrated community living homes supported by JCFS Chicago are brushing up on their hygiene practices with guidance from JCFS Occupational Therapist Jamie Norris. Jamie has been meeting with residents from each home separately for three sessions, tailoring the lessons to the needs of each group.

The idea for the course grew from a consultation where the need for customized support was identified.

“After discussing how we could broaden that impact, we decided that a group hygiene class would be a fantastic way to provide everyone with consistent, practical information,” said Letícia Cardoso, Director of Residential Supports.

Residents bring their toiletry kits to the Elaine Kersten Children’s Center in Northbrook where they discuss the contents and the variety of tools everyone uses.

“It was great to give them an opportunity to really explore and talk about what they like or dislike about the hygiene routine,” Jamie said. “And then we talked about some of the sensory experiences related to it.”

They also practiced sequencing activities they called “dry runs,” such as pantomiming taking a shower, which led to discussions about how long to spend washing their hair. In conjunction with practicing each hygienic activity, the residents used cards to help put each step in the right order.

Residents were able to perform some activities fully—like brushing their teeth—which helped reinforce their abilities through hands-on practice. Residential staff members also attended the sessions, offering valuable insight into which skills each resident struggles with and where additional support may be needed.

“There are already a lot of amazing tools and strategies in place, and the residential staff are fantastic and know their residents so well,” Jamie said. “It’s amazing to see that dynamic.”

Jamie said that while reinforcing the skills residents already knew, but often relied on staff to complete, she was able to show them that they could do them on their own.

“It was a good way to work on these skills and give some strategies that aren’t necessarily specific to one person and their needs but can be used for all of them,” she said.

Jamie said the lessons for the next group of residents will focus on professional hygiene, including what residents may need to do before a job interview or work, with an emphasis on skills such as shaving and hair care.

“This type of course is vital because it’s about much more than just health and wellness; it’s about fostering independence and self-confidence,” Letícia said. “Providing individuals with the tools and knowledge to manage their own routines empowers them to take more ownership of their daily lives.”