معرفی
Professor Kate Laver is a leading researcher at Flinders University in the College of Nursing and Health Sciences and a key member of the Caring Futures Institute. She holds the academic rank of Professor (Research) and is an experienced occupational therapist with over 15 years of clinical experience. Her work focuses on maximizing independence and quality of life for older people and individuals with disabilities, particularly those living with dementia or stroke.
Her research expertise lies in co-designing, developing, and evaluating rehabilitation interventions and innovative models of care, with a strong emphasis on knowledge translation and implementation science. She has led national trials and contributed to clinical practice guidelines, working closely with health professionals, consumers, and non-government aged care organizations. She is particularly interested in leveraging technology—such as telehealth, virtual reality, and digital platforms—to improve access and efficiency in health services.
- B App Sc (OT)
- M Clin Rehab
- Certificate in Implementation Science (UCSF)
- PhD
Her recent publications reflect a consistent focus on dementia care, occupational therapy, rehabilitation technologies, and implementation challenges in aged care. The articles span systematic reviews, clinical trials, and qualitative studies, highlighting interdisciplinary collaboration and real-world application. Themes include telehealth efficacy, caregiver support, inclusive practice, and policy-relevant research in dementia and stroke rehabilitation.
Scientific Awards and Honors:
- Fellow of the Occupational Therapy Australia Research Academy
- ARC Discovery Early Career Research Fellowship (DECRA), 2020
- NHMRC-ARC Dementia Research Development Fellowship, 2016
- Norington Lecture Award, 2019
- Flinders University Vice Chancellor's Early Career Research Prize, 2015
- AICD - Foundations of Directorship, 2020
- National Stroke Foundation New Investigator Award, 2011
Professor Laver actively supervises higher degree research students and leads large-scale translational research projects, including an ARC-funded study on a culturally tailored iSupport model for dementia caregivers and a project on home modifications for healthy aging. She is committed to community engagement, public presentations, and media outreach on topics such as healthy ageing, dementia, and rehabilitation. As Associate Editor for the Australian Occupational Therapy Journal and former Co-Chair of the FHMRI Consumer Advisory Board, she plays a significant role in shaping research and policy in her field.
She is involved in national collaborations through the NHMRC Cognitive Decline Partnership Centre and maintains strong ties with clinical and aged care sectors. Her research aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals related to healthy ageing and quality healthcare.
