Dr Kylie Wales

Dr Kylie Wales

Honorary Senior Lecturer

School of Health Sciences

Career Summary

Biography

Kylie started working with the University of Newcastle in 2017 as a lecturer and course coordinator for practice education in occupational therapy, roles that bring together her firm love for teaching and zest for research and discovery. Kylie’s research explores health economics, ageing and psychometrics. Together with her team, she seeks to understand how occupational therapists can assess their clients’ situation and needs so they can provide the most effective—and cost-effective—treatments that improve people’s quality of life. 

Kylie completed her undergraduate degree with the University of Western Sydney, graduating with first class honours and Dean’s merit list credit. After graduation, Kylie worked in Western Sydney as a community occupational therapist for young adults with lifelong conditions. The role predominately focused on equipment prescription, home modifications and life skills. A year later, Kylie’s growing interest in research propelled her into a project manager position for a research study funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council. The study’s investigations highlighted serious gaps in our understanding of occupational therapists’ role in discharge planning.

Determined to investigate these knowledge gaps, Kylie commenced a PhD in 2011 with the University of Sydney, supported by an Australian Post-Graduate Scholarship. Kylie’s research focused specifically on understanding clients’ needs and outcomes in the hospital setting and the cost-effectiveness of discharge planning practice. Kylie combined her research studies with a post-graduate teaching fellowship, gaining valuable experience in teaching both undergraduate and masters students about equipment prescription, home modifications, falls prevention, ageing, and evidence-based practice.

For her PhD, Kylie ran a study at John Hunter Hospital, evaluating the application of assessment tools on older adults who were admitted to acute hospital care. She then moved into clinical work with Vision Australia, becoming the Regional Practice Lead for the Central Coast and Hunter Regions. Kylie was core to leading the allied health team through the change in service delivery under My Aged Care and National Disability Insurance Scheme.



Qualifications

  • Doctor of Philosophy, University of Sydney
  • Bachelor of Applied Science (Occupational Therapy), University of Western Sydney

Keywords

  • Ageing
  • Cost-effectiveness
  • Measurement
  • Occupational Therapy

Fields of Research

Code Description Percentage
420301 Aged health care 100

Professional Experience

UON Appointment

Title Organisation / Department
Senior Lecturer University of Newcastle
School of Health Sciences
Australia

Awards

Prize

Year Award
2021 Early Career Researcher
Australian Occupational Therapy Association

Teaching

Code Course Role Duration
OCCT2254 Beginning Occupational Therapy Professional Practice
The Faculty of Health Science / The University of Newcastle / Australia
Course Coordinator 1/1/0001 - 31/12/2020
OCCT4273 Advanced Occupational Therapy Practice
The Faculty of Health Science / The University of Newcastle / Australia
Course Coordinator 1/1/0001 - 31/12/2021
OCCT3161 Intermediate Occupational Therapy Professional Practice
The Faculty of Health Science / The University of Newcastle / Australia
Course Coordinator 1/1/0001 - 31/7/2021
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Publications

For publications that are currently unpublished or in-press, details are shown in italics.


Chapter (3 outputs)

Year Citation Altmetrics Link
2021 Awuviry-Newton K, Tavener M, Wales K, Byles J, 'Towards a better understanding of the long-term care needs of older people in Ghana', 117-142 (2021) [B1]
Co-authors Meredith Tavener, Julie Byles, Kofi Awuvirynewton Uon
2021 Cordier R, Joosten A, Wales K, Clemson L, 'The development of occupations across the lifespan', 288-304 (2021)
2017 Cordier R, Joosten A, Clemson L, Wales K, 'The development of occupations across the lifespan', Occupational Therapy in Australia Professional and Practice Issues, Allen & Unwin, Crows Nest 244-259 (2017)

Conference (33 outputs)

Year Citation Altmetrics Link
2022 Ashton C, Wales K, Wolfgang R, Roper A, Skilton H, 'Impact of home modifications on rural dwelling older adults' function and independence.', Melbourne, VIC & Virtual Conference (2022)
2022 Janssen H, Ellicott B, Marquez J, Wales K, Simpson D, Sweetapple A, Colvin D, McIntosh M, Pickering R, Catchpole C, Marsden D, Alston M, Barker D, Oldmeadow C, Pollack M, Levi C, Quinn R, Cadilhac D, 'Master Stroke: Evaluation of a health service delivered group program combing self-management and secondary prevention for people living with stroke', INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF STROKE, 17, 16-16 (2022)
Co-authors Dawn Simpson, Heidi Janssen, Christopher Levi, Christopher Oldmeadow, Daniel Barker, Jodie Marquez
2022 Philpott-Robinson K, Wales K, Wakely K, Mason E, Lane A, 'Occupational therapy students: An asset to embedded occupational therapy services', Melbourne, VIC (2022)
2022 Awuviry-Newton K, Tavener M, Wales K, Byles J, 'Using ethics of care as the theoretical lens to understand lived experiences of caregivers of older adults experiencing functional difficulties', PLOS ONE, 17 (2022)
DOI 10.1371/journal.pone.0267658
Citations Scopus - 4Web of Science - 4
Co-authors Kofi Awuvirynewton Uon, Julie Byles, Meredith Tavener
2022 Philpott-Robinson K, Wales K, Wakely K, Lane A, 'Embedding occupational therapy services in educational settings in Hunter NSW [Poster Presentation]', Melbourne, Australia (2022)
2022 Philpott-Robinson K, Blackwell D, Mallise C, Leonard C, Lane A, Wales K, 'Teacher and therapist perspectives of self-regulation for children aged 4-12 years', Melbourne, Australia (2022)
Co-authors Carly Mallise, Carl Leonard
2021 Wales K, Potts J, Roberts E, 'The Canadian occupational performance measure: A systematic review of psychometric properties', Virtual Conference and engagement hubs (2021)
Co-authors Elysa Roberts
2021 Wales K, Corbett B, Frith J, 'The role of allied health assistants in occupational therapy services in acute and sub-acute care: A scoping review', Virtual (2021)
2021 Philpott-Robinson K, Wales K, Leonard C, Lane A, 'Self-regulation difficulties in school-aged children: A scoping review', Virtual Conference and engagement hubs (2021)
Co-authors Carl Leonard
2020 Pomroy R, Killey N, Wales K, 'Developing a student led Telehealth service in residential aged care during COVID-19', Online (2020)
Co-authors Ricky Pomroy, Nicole Killey
2020 Awuviry-Newton K, Tavener M, Wales K, Byles W, 'Using Ethics of Care as the theoretical lens to understand the lived experiences of caregivers of older adults with functional difficulties' (2020)
Co-authors Meredith Tavener, Kofi Awuvirynewton Uon, Julie Byles
2019 Awuviry-Newton K, Tavener M, Wales K, Kowal P, Byles J, 'ACTIVITIES OF DAILY LIVING DIFFICULTIES AND TOILETING AMONG OLDER GHANAIANS: AN APPLICATION OF WHO-ICF FRAMEWORK', Innovation in Aging, Austin Texas (2019)
DOI 10.1093/geroni/igz038.1916
Co-authors Meredith Tavener, Kofi Awuvirynewton Uon, Julie Byles, Paul Kowal
2019 Awuviry-Newton K, Tavener M, Wales K, Bylie J, 'Interpretative Phenomenological analysis of the lived experiences of older adults in functional activities', Sydney, Australia (2019)
Co-authors Kofi Awuvirynewton Uon, Meredith Tavener
2019 Awuviry-Newton K, Wales K, Meredith T, Kowal P, Byles J, 'Activities of daily living difficulties and toileting among older people in Ghana: an application of World Health Organisation International Classification of Functioning (ICF) framework', Moncton, Canada (2019)
Co-authors Kofi Awuvirynewton Uon, Paul Kowal, Julie Byles
2019 Awuviry-Newton K, Wales K, Tavener M, Kowal P, Byles J, 'Activities of daily living difficulties and toileting among older people in Ghana: an application of World Health Organisation International Classification of Functioning (ICF) framework', Austin-Texas, United States of America (2019)
Co-authors Kofi Awuvirynewton Uon, Meredith Tavener, Paul Kowal, Julie Byles
2019 Ashby S, Wales K, 'McGlashon, J., Ashby, S., Watkins, K., & Wales, K. (2019). The professional resilience strategies utilised by Australian occupational therapists to combat occupational stressors. Australian Occupational Therapy Journal, 66(S1), 45. doi:10.1111/1440-1630.12585', Sydney, Australia (2019)
DOI 10.1111/1440-1630.12585
Co-authors Samantha Ashby
2019 Ashby S, Wales K, 'Watkins, K., Ashby, S., & Wales, K. (2019). An international study of the professional resilience strategies utilised by occupational therapists to combat occupational stressors. Australian Occupational Therapy Journal, 66(S1), 107.doi:10.1111/1440-1630.12586', Sydney, Australia (2019)
DOI 10.1111/1440-1630.12586
Co-authors Samantha Ashby
2017 Cameron L, Casey A, Wales K, Pike S, Lannin NA, 'A systematic review of instruments used to measure the self-reported quality of life of stroke survivors' (2017)
2017 Pike S, Lannin NA, Cusick A, Wales K, 'A systematic review of the psychometric properties of the upper-limb motor assessment scale and its ability to measure everyday activity performance' (2017)
2017 Pike S, Lannin N, Cusick A, Wales K, 'Measuring everyday activity performance and life participation: A systematic review of the psychometric properties of the nine-hole peg test' (2017)
2017 Wales K, Clemson L, Lannin NA, 'Economic analysis in occupational therapy: The role of research in ensuring our continued funding' (2017)
2017 Wales K, Wesson J, Clemson L, Lannin NA, 'Occupational therapy measurement with older adults: What are we doing and why? [Poster]' (2017)
2015 Pike S, Lannin NA, Cusick A, Wales K, Ashford S, Turner-Stokes L, 'A systematic review of measurement properties of functional assessment including their validity as measures of everyday activity performance and life participation' (2015)
2015 Wales K, Clemson L, Lannin NA, Cameron I, 'Selecting psychometrically robust functional assessment for use with older adults: A systematic review' (2015)
2015 Coulter M, Lannin NA, Eyres L, Stevenson M, Wales K, Willman A, Clemson L, 'Do our acute occupational therapy functional assessments predict home performance in older Australians?' (2015)
2015 Clemson L, Lannin N, Wales K, Gitlin L, Rubenstein L, Barris S, et al., 'Occupational therapy discharge planning to facilitate transition from hospital to home: The HOME trial' (2015)
2015 Wales K, Lannin NA, Clemson L, 'Measuring functional ability inacute hospitalised older adults: A validation and reliability study' (2015)
2015 Clemson LM, Lannin N, Wales K, Gitlin LN, Rubenstein L, Cameron ID, 'DISCHARGE PLANNING UTILIZING HOME VISITS COMPARED TO IN-HOSPITAL CONSULTATION, EFFECTS ON COST UTILIZATION, FUNCTION AND PARTICIPATION: THE AUSTRALIAN HOME TRIAL', GERONTOLOGIST (2015)
2014 Wales K, Clemson L, Lannin NA, Cameron I, 'A systematic review of measurement properties of the Assessment of Motor and Process Skills' (2014)
2014 Wales K, Clemson L, Lannin NA, Cameron I, 'Occupational therapy HOME discharge planning for older adults: Is this a cost effective practice?' (2014)
2013 Wales K, Clemson L, Lannin NA, Cameron ID, 'Measuring activity and participation limitations in older adults: A systematic review and evaluation of measurement properties' (2013)
2013 Clemson L, Davies C, Wales K, Lannin NA, Jang H, 'Collaborative goal setting as core to occupational therapy discharge planning for at-risk older adults: A content analysis explores the goals' (2013)
2013 Clemson LM, Lannin N, Wales K, Gitlin LN, Cameron ID, Rubenstein L, 'PREPARING OLDER ADULTS FOR SSFE DISCHARGE AND RESUMPTION OF MEANINGFUL DAILY ACTIVITIES: THE HOME INTERVENTION', GERONTOLOGIST (2013)
Show 30 more conferences

Journal article (31 outputs)

Year Citation Altmetrics Link
2025 Ashby S, Watkins K, Wales K, 'An Investigation of the Professional Resilience Strategies Used by Experienced Occupational Therapists', OTJR-OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY JOURNAL OF RESEARCH, 45, 131-139 (2025) [C1]
DOI 10.1177/15394492241237740
Co-authors Samantha Ashby
2025 Carey ML, Kelly M, Pond D, Nair BR, Attia J, Jeon Y-H, Deeming S, Rhee JJ, Wales K, Khaing K, Williams A, White J, Harden M, Ford C, Ward J, Lithgow S, Oldmeadow C, Jalewa J, Smart E, Wood K, Bartczak A, Fakes K, 'Randomised controlled trial of a nurse coordination intervention for people living with dementia and their carers: study protocol.', BMJ Open, 15 (2025)

Introduction The multifaceted impact of dementia means that people living with dementia require multidisciplinary care across different services and settings; however, these care ... [more]

Introduction The multifaceted impact of dementia means that people living with dementia require multidisciplinary care across different services and settings; however, these care transitions pose a risk of fragmented care. Models that improve integration and coordination of care in the community are needed. Methods and analysis This randomised control trial will test the effectiveness and cost effectiveness of a dementia nurse-led intervention to: (1) increase days lived in the community at 12-month follow-up (primary outcome) among people living with dementia and (2) improve quality of life for people living with dementia and their carers, compared with usual care. Participants are recruited from several sources including private and public geriatric medicine clinics, carer support groups and self-referral. People living with dementia and their carers are randomised as a dyad to (1) usual care or (2) dementia nurse-led care-coordination. The dementia nurse will provide care coordination and direct support through a tailored, integrated and patient-centred approach. The needs of people living with dementia will be identified and addressed, with a focus on improving the management of comorbidities, risk reduction and symptoms. Carers will also receive support. The model for people living with dementia will focus on days lived in their community as the outcome variable. Differences between groups in quality of life at 12-month follow-up will be assessed using linear mixed effects regression. Analysis will follow the intention to treat principles. People living with dementia and carers' data will be analysed separately and collectively for the economic study. Ethics and dissemination The trial has been approved by the Hunter New England Research Ethics Committee (2023/ETH01221) and the University of Newcastle Ethics Committee (R-2024-0021). Trial findings will be disseminated via peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations. If the intervention is effective, the research team aims to further implement the intervention as usual care within the participating services and beyond.

DOI 10.1136/bmjopen-2024-095473
Co-authors Jwhite1, Kristy Fakes, Michelle Kelly, Mariko Carey, John Attia, Kichu Nair, Christopher Oldmeadow
2025 Philpott-Robinson K, Blackwell D, Regan C, Leonard C, Haracz K, Lane AE, Wales K, 'Conflicting Definitions of Self-Regulation in Occupational Therapy: A Scoping Review', PHYSICAL & OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY IN PEDIATRICS [C1]
DOI 10.1080/01942638.2024.2434468
Co-authors Casey Regan, Carl Leonard, Kirsti Haracz
2025 Ray K, Colyvas K, Evans R, Langlois C, Blackwell D, Johnson T, Wales K, Lane AE, 'Preliminary Psychometric Properties of the Letter Form Assessment Version 2 (LFA–2) Scale', American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 79 (2025) [C1]
DOI 10.5014/ajot.2025.050893
Co-authors Karen Ray, Kim Colyvas
2025 Kelly M, Mierendorff S, Wales K, Voeste J, Allen J, Mcdonald S, 'Telehealth-based assessment of cognition, social cognition, mood, and functional independence in older adults', Brain Impairment, 26 (2025)
DOI 10.1071/IB24114
Co-authors Michelle Kelly
2025 Grant T, Jolliffe L, Wales K, Schneider E, Drummond AE, Lannin NA, 'Activity-based interventions to increase independence after stroke within the hospital setting: Protocol for a systematic review (Preprint)', JMIR Research Protocols
DOI 10.2196/73133
2024 Unwin K, Wales K, Johnson T, Leonard C, Dixon G, English L, Lane A, 'Evidence Synthesis and Clinical Recommendations for Supporting School Students With Sensory Processing Challenges: A Rapid Review', AMERICAN JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY, 78 [C1]

Importance: Children with sensory processing challenges often need supports to access, participate in, and achieve at school. However, research on best practice is varied, present... [more]

Importance: Children with sensory processing challenges often need supports to access, participate in, and achieve at school. However, research on best practice is varied, presenting difficulty for practitioners to assess the appropriateness of each support. Objective: To provide evidence-informed recommendations regarding best practices in school-based supports for students with sensory processing challenges via a Rapid Evidence Assessment of current literature. Data Sources: Searches were run in CINAHL Complete, Education Research Complete, ERIC, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and Scopus (for articles published 2010 to 2023). Informed by a 2010 review, articles citing publications identified in the prior review were also included. Study Selection and Data Collection: A reviewer screened the title and abstract of each article for inclusion, and another screened the full texts, with 10% of each reviewer's articles assessed by the other. Interrater reliability was excellent. Findings: The review included 61 articles, with only 15% constituting good evidence (38% provided adequate evidence, 31% provided poor evidence, and 16% were reviews). No support could be wholly recommended without caveats, but there was some evidence that sound amplification systems, alternate seating, and multisensory environments may be beneficial in certain conditions or with certain populations. The use of weighted vests is not recommended. Conclusions and Relevance: Most research had small sample sizes and inconsistent protocols, highlighting the importance of ongoing research. Evidence-informed practitioners should review research findings carefully and integrate evidence from comprehensive clinical assessment and understanding of the child, school, and family contexts when assessing the appropriateness of a support for each student. Plain-Language Summary: Children with sensory processing challenges often need supports to access, participate in, and achieve at school. Occupational therapists provide school-based supports for children with sensory processing challenges with the goal of enabling access, participation, and achievement. It is difficult, however, for practitioners to assess the appropriateness of each support because research on best practice varies. This review of the current literature provides practitioners with evidence on supports for school children with sensory processing challenges to inform decision-making and the selection of appropriate supports for their clients. When assessing the appropriateness of a support for a student, practitioners should carefully review current research findings and integrate evidence from comprehensive clinical assessments along with an understanding of the student, school, and family contexts.

DOI 10.5014/ajot.2024.050766
Co-authors Carl Leonard
2024 Philpott-Robinson K, Haracz K, Blackwell D, Mallise C, Leonard C, Lane A, Wales K, 'The experiences of occupational therapists supporting children with self-regulation needs: A qualitative descriptive study', AUSTRALIAN OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY JOURNAL, 71, 1041-1058 (2024) [C1]
DOI 10.1111/1440-1630.12985
Citations Scopus - 1
Co-authors Carl Leonard, Carly Mallise, Kirsti Haracz
2024 Hassett J, Spencer L, Hewat S, Wales K, Webb G, 'Collaborative approaches with stakeholders in speech-language pathology: Narrative literature review', INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LANGUAGE & COMMUNICATION DISORDERS, 59, 2911-2925 (2024) [C1]
DOI 10.1111/1460-6984.13123
Citations Scopus - 1
Co-authors Gwendalyn Webb, Sally Hewat, Liz Spencer
2023 Awuviry-Newton K, Wales K, Tavener M, Kowal P, Byles J, 'Functional difficulties and toileting among older adults in Ghana: evidence from the World Health Organization Study on global AGEing and adult health (SAGE) Ghana Wave 1', AGEING & SOCIETY, 43, 53-75 (2023) [C1]
DOI 10.1017/S0144686X21000453
Citations Scopus - 1Web of Science - 14
Co-authors Meredith Tavener, Kofi Awuvirynewton Uon, Julie Byles, Paul Kowal
2023 Wesson J, Johanna du Toit SH, Wales K, Gresham M, Flavin T, Brodaty H, 'Australian National Aged Care Classification behaviour assessment and people living with dementia in residential aged care: Inclusive language for reform?', AUSTRALASIAN JOURNAL ON AGEING, 42 234-240 (2023) [C1]
DOI 10.1111/ajag.13142
Citations Scopus - 2Web of Science - 2
2023 Awuviry-Newton K, Tavener M, Wales K, Denham AMJ, Byles J, 'A meta-synthesis of care and support for older adults in Africa', JOURNAL OF FAMILY STUDIES, 29, 431-452 (2023) [C1]
DOI 10.1080/13229400.2021.1897031
Citations Scopus - 7Web of Science - 7
Co-authors Meredith Tavener, Kofi Awuvirynewton Uon, Julie Byles
2023 Philpott-Robinson K, Johnson T, Evans L, Wales K, Leonard C, Lane AE, 'Measurement of Self-regulation in Preschool and Elementary Children: A Scoping Review', PHYSICAL & OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY IN PEDIATRICS, 43, 403-429 (2023) [C1]
DOI 10.1080/01942638.2022.2158055
Citations Scopus - 5Web of Science - 3
Co-authors Carl Leonard
2022 Wales K, Lang D, Rahja M, Somerville L, Laver K, Lannin NA, 'Economic Effects of Occupational Therapy Services for Adults in Acute and Subacute Care Settings: A Systematic Review', AMERICAN JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY, 76 [C1]
DOI 10.5014/ajot.2022.049078
Citations Scopus - 7Web of Science - 5
Co-authors Danielle Lang
2022 Cameron LJ, Wales K, Casey A, Pike S, Jolliffe L, Schneider EJ, Christie LJ, Ratcliffe J, Lannin NA, 'Self-reported quality of life following stroke: a systematic review of instruments with a focus on their psychometric properties', QUALITY OF LIFE RESEARCH, 31, 329-342 (2022) [C1]
DOI 10.1007/s11136-021-02944-9
Citations Scopus - 2Web of Science - 22
2021 Cavanagh B, Haracz K, Lawry M, Wales K, James C, 'Changes in emotions and perceived stress following time spent in an artistically designed multisensory environment', Medical Humanities, 47 (2021) [C1]
DOI 10.1136/medhum-2020-011876
Citations Scopus - 3Web of Science - 3
Co-authors Kirsti Haracz, Miranda Lawry
2021 Pike S, Cusick A, Wales K, Cameron L, Turner-Stokes L, Ashford S, Lannin NA, 'Psychometric properties of measures of upper limb activity performance in adults with and without spasticity undergoing neurorehabilitation-A systematic review', PLOS ONE, 16 (2021) [C1]
DOI 10.1371/journal.pone.0246288
Citations Scopus - 4Web of Science - 3
2021 Awuviry-Newton K, Tavener M, Wales K, Byles J, 'The roles and capacities of social workers in the lives of older adults seeking healthcare and their caregivers in Ghana', HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY, 29, 877-888 (2021) [C1]

As Ghana's older population increases in number and proportion, the social and healthcare needs of older adults and their caregivers become more critical highlighting the rel... [more]

As Ghana's older population increases in number and proportion, the social and healthcare needs of older adults and their caregivers become more critical highlighting the relevance of social workers' contribution in assisting older adults and their caregivers. The purpose of this study was to explore social workers' contributions, discussed against the International Federation of Social Workers (IFSW) Policy on Ageing and Older Person framework. The study employed a descriptive qualitative approach making use of semi-structured interviews to collect information from eight social workers at the Social Welfare Unit in Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in Ghana. Themes and codes were developed from the interviews using thematic analysis, employing In-vivo and descriptive coding, and N-Vivo v12 as a management tool. Analysis of interviews revealed three interrelated themes; (a) "We provide it accordingly": Talking about their contributions as systematic, (b) "I think we can do more": Talking about their contributions as insufficient, and (c) "Our efforts are being hampered": Complaints of inadequate resources for working with older adults and their caregivers. The study offers areas of opportunities for social workers per the IFSW policy framework to reflect and examine their current knowledge and skill to address the challenges population ageing presents in Ghana. While social workers contribute towards helping older adults seeking healthcare and their caregivers, their needs cannot be ignored. The findings draw attention to effective policies and programs that can provide social workers with the needed resources to be independent and be able to devise novel approaches unique to older adults and their caregivers.

DOI 10.1111/hsc.13121
Citations Scopus - 5Web of Science - 6
Co-authors Julie Byles, Kofi Awuvirynewton Uon, Meredith Tavener
2020 Provencher V, Clemson L, Wales K, Cameron ID, Gitlin LN, Grenier A, Lannin NA, 'Supporting at-risk older adults transitioning from hospital to home: who benefits from an evidence-based patient-centered discharge planning intervention? Post-hoc analysis from a randomized trial', BMC GERIATRICS, 20 (2020) [C1]
DOI 10.1186/s12877-020-1494-3
Citations Scopus - 2Web of Science - 15
2020 Awuviry-Newton K, Wales K, Tavener M, Byles J, 'Do factors across the World Health Organisation's International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health framework relate to caregiver availability for community-dwelling older adults in Ghana?', PLOS ONE, 15 (2020) [C1]
DOI 10.1371/journal.pone.0233541
Citations Scopus - 1Web of Science - 13
Co-authors Meredith Tavener, Julie Byles, Kofi Awuvirynewton Uon
2020 Awuviry-Newton K, Tavener M, Wales K, Byles J, 'Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis of the Lived Experiences of Older Adults Regarding Their Functional Activities in Ghana', Journal of Primary Care and Community Health, 11 (2020) [C1]
DOI 10.1177/2150132720931110
Citations Scopus - 1Web of Science - 1
Co-authors Meredith Tavener, Kofi Awuvirynewton Uon, Julie Byles
2018 Pike S, Lannin NA, Wales K, Cusick A, 'A systematic review of the psychometric properties of the Action Research Arm Test in neurorehabilitation', AUSTRALIAN OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY JOURNAL, 65, 449-471 (2018) [C1]
DOI 10.1111/1440-1630.12527
Citations Scopus - 3Web of Science - 31
2018 Wales K, Lannin NA, Clemson L, Cameron ID, 'Measuring functional ability in hospitalized older adults: a validation study', DISABILITY AND REHABILITATION, 40, 1972-1978 (2018) [C1]

Purpose: To examine the internal consistency, construct validity and responsiveness of functional assessments tools when used with hospitalized older adults. Materials and methods... [more]

Purpose: To examine the internal consistency, construct validity and responsiveness of functional assessments tools when used with hospitalized older adults. Materials and methods: The functional ability of 66 patients was assessed using a semi-structured interview scale (n = 16 tools). The assessment of motor and process skills was administered during hospital admission and again at three months post-discharge. Results: Tools showed poor-to-excellent internal consistency (a = 0.27¿0.92). Of the tools that were internally consistent, only two demonstrated change: the Groningen activity restriction scale (GARS) (smallest detectable change [SDC] 11.68, effect size -1.59) and the modified reintegration to normal living scale (SDC 7.04, effect size -1.20). Validity was supported by strong correlations between the functional independence measure¿ (FIM¿) and the GARS, FIM¿ and Sunnaas activity daily living (ADL) index. Conclusions: Findings suggest that the GARS and the modified reintegration to normal living index (mRNLI) are internally consistent, valid and responsive to change over time when applied to a sample of hospitalized older adults. Further investigation of these tools in terms of inter and intra rater reliability in clinical practice is warranted.Implications for Rehabilitation Therapists and researchers need to choose standardized functional assessments carefully when working with hospitalized older adults, as not all assessments are reliable and valid in this population. The GARS and mRNLI are valid and responsive functional assessments for hospitalized older adults. Activity and participation have been viewed traditionally as only one component of function. Therapists and researchers can use standardized assessments of function that are activity or participation-based.

DOI 10.1080/09638288.2017.1323021
Citations Scopus - 1Web of Science - 12
2018 Unsworth CA, Timmer A, Wales K, 'Reliability of the Australian Therapy Outcome Measures for Occupational Therapy (AusTOMs-OT)', Australian Occupational Therapy Journal, 65, 376-386 (2018) [C1]
DOI 10.1111/1440-1630.12476
Citations Scopus - 7Web of Science - 7
2018 Wales K, Salkeld G, Clemson L, Lannin NA, Gitlin L, Rubenstein L, et al., 'A trial based economic evaluation of occupational therapy discharge planning for older adults: the HOME randomized trial', Clinical Rehabilitation, 32 919-929 (2018) [C1]

Objective: To compare the cost effectiveness of two occupational therapy¿led discharge planning interventions from the HOME trial. Design: An economic evaluation was conducted wit... [more]

Objective: To compare the cost effectiveness of two occupational therapy¿led discharge planning interventions from the HOME trial. Design: An economic evaluation was conducted within the superiority randomized HOME trial to assess the difference in costs and health-related outcomes associated with the enhanced program and the in-hospital consultation. Total costs of health and community service utilization were used to calculate incremental cost-effectiveness ratios, activities of daily living and quality-adjusted life years. Setting: Medical and acute care wards of Australian hospitals (n=5). Subjects: A total of 400 people = 70 years of age. Interventions: Participants were randomized to either (1) an enhanced program (HOME), involving pre/post discharge visits and two follow-up phone calls, or (2) an in-hospital consultation using the home and community environment assessment and the Lawton Instrumental Activities of Daily Living assessment. Main measures: Nottingham Extended Activities of Daily Living (global measure of activities of daily living) and SF-12V2, transformed into SF-6D (quality-adjusted life year) measured at baseline and three months post discharge. Results: The cost of the enhanced program was higher than that of the in-hospital consultation. However, a higher proportion of patients showed improvement in activities of daily living in the enhanced program with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of $61,906.00 per person with clinically meaningful improvement. Conclusion: Health services would not save money by implementing the enhanced program as a routine intervention in medical and acute care wards. Future research should incorporate longer time horizons and consider which patient groups would benefit from home visits.

DOI 10.1177/0269215518764249
Citations Scopus - 8Web of Science - 7
2016 Clemson L, Lannin NA, Wales K, Salkeld G, Rubenstein L, Gitlin L, Barris S, Mackenzie L, Cameron ID, 'Occupational Therapy Predischarge Home Visits in Acute Hospital Care: A Randomized Trial', JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN GERIATRICS SOCIETY, 64, 2019-2026 (2016) [C1]
DOI 10.1111/jgs.14287
Citations Scopus - 2Web of Science - 23
2016 Wales K, Clemson L, Lannin N, Cameron I, 'Functional Assessments Used by Occupational Therapists with Older Adults at Risk of Activity and Participation Limitations: A Systematic Review', PLOS ONE, 11 (2016) [C1]
DOI 10.1371/journal.pone.0147980
Citations Scopus - 5Web of Science - 43
2015 Pike S, Lannin NA, Cusick A, Wales K, Turner-Stokes L, Ashford S, 'A systematic review protocol to evaluate the psychometric properties of measures of function within adult neuro-rehabilitation', SYSTEMATIC REVIEWS, 4 (2015)

Background: Spasticity in the upper limb is common after acquired brain impairment and may have a significant impact on the ability to perform meaningful daily activities. Traditi... [more]

Background: Spasticity in the upper limb is common after acquired brain impairment and may have a significant impact on the ability to perform meaningful daily activities. Traditionally, outcome measurement in spasticity rehabilitation has focused on impairment, however, improvements in impairments do not necessarily translate to improvements in an individual's ability to perform activities or engage in life roles. There is an increasing need for outcome measures that capture change in activity performance and life participation. Methods/Design: We will conduct a systematic review of the psychometric properties of instruments used to measure upper limb functional outcomes (activity performance and participation) in patients with spasticity. Assessments (n = 27) will be identified from a recently published systematic review of assessments that measure upper limb function in neurological rehabilitation for adults with focal spasticity, and a systematic review of each assessment will then be conducted. The databases MEDLINE, CINAHL and EMBASE will be searched from inception. Search strategies will include the name of the assessment and the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health status Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) published search strategy for identifying studies of measurement properties. The methodological rigour of the testing of the psychometric quality of instruments will be undertaken using the Consensus-based Standards for the Selection of Health Measurement Instruments (COSMIN) checklist. International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) definitions of impairment, activity and participation will be used for content analysis of items to determine the extent to which assessments are valid measures of activity performance and life participation. We will present a narrative synthesis on the psychometric properties and utility of all instruments and make recommendations for assessment selection in practice. Discussion: This systematic review will present a narrative synthesis on the psychometric properties and utility of assessments used to evaluate function in adults with upper limb focal spasticity. Recommendations for assessment selection in practice will be made which will aid clinicians, managers and funding bodies to select an instrument fit for purpose. Importantly, appropriate assessment selection will provide a mechanism for capturing how applicable to everyday life the outcomes from individualised rehabilitation programs for the upper limb really are.

DOI 10.1186/s13643-015-0076-5
Citations Scopus - 5Web of Science - 5
2013 Laver K, Wales K, Clemson L, 'Effectiveness of pre-discharge occupational therapy home visits has yet to be evaluated; a definitive trial is feasible and warranted', Australian Occupational Therapy Journal, 60 374-375 (2013)
DOI 10.1111/1440-1630.12086
2012 Wales K, Clemson L, Lannin NA, Cameron ID, Salked G, Gitlin L, et al., 'Occupational therapy discharge planning for older adults: A protocol for a randomised trial and economic evaluation', BMC GERIATRICS, 12 (2012)
DOI 10.1186/1471-2318-12-34
Citations Scopus - 13Web of Science - 11
2012 Wales K, Clemson L, Lannin NA, Cameron ID, 'Functional assessments used by occupational therapists with older adults at risk of activity and participation limitations: A systematic review and evaluation of measurement properties', Systematic Reviews, 1 (2012)

Background: Older adults experience activity and participation limitations that are associated with ageing. Activity and participation limitations affect an older adult's abi... [more]

Background: Older adults experience activity and participation limitations that are associated with ageing. Activity and participation limitations affect an older adult's ability to engage in meaningful daily activities and valued life roles. Occupational therapists provide interventions to reduce such limitations and monitor client change to ensure that interventions are effective. Client change should be measured through the use of valid and reliable assessments. Yet occupational therapists can favour the use of non-standardised assessments leading to inaccurate reflections of client change and difficulties in comparing the effectiveness of interventions. A number of reasons have been suggested as to why therapists may favour non-standardised assessments, including a lack of knowledge (of assessments and their properties) and lack of skill.Methods/design: This paper describes the systematic review protocol that will be used to identify functional assessments used in randomised trials of occupational therapy interventions for older adults (=70 years of age). Interventions will focus on enhancing functional independence for either older adults transitioning from hospital to home, or community dwelling older adults. We will search Medline, EBSCO and OTseeker using a pre-determined search strategy to identify Functional assessments. These assessments will be recorded and, in phase two, their measurement properties analysed.Discussion: This protocol provides a comprehensive guideline for conducting the proposed systematic review. The results of this systematic review will provide a thorough and unbiased identification and evaluation of measurement properties of functional assessment tools used in randomised trials to evaluate occupational therapy intervention. This information can be used to determine which assessment has superior measurement properties and will inform occupational therapy practice. © 2012 Wales et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.

DOI 10.1186/2046-4053-1-45
Citations Scopus - 7
Show 28 more journal articles

Preprint (3 outputs)

Year Citation Altmetrics Link
2025 Alves-Stein S, Lannin NA, Wales K, Kramer S, Jolliffe L, 'The effectiveness of rehabilitation interventions on improving leisure participation following stroke: Protocol for a systematic review (Preprint) (2025)
DOI 10.2196/preprints.71353
2025 Grant T, Jolliffe L, Wales K, Schneider E, Drummond AE, Lannin NA, 'Activity-based interventions to increase independence after stroke within the hospital setting: Protocol for a systematic review (Preprint) (2025)
DOI 10.2196/preprints.73133
2022 Ashby S, Wales K, Watkins K, 'Professional resilience strategies utilized by occupational therapists to combat occupational stressors in health and social care settings (2022)
DOI 10.21203/rs.3.rs-1980785/v1
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Grants and Funding

Summary

Number of grants 9
Total funding $100,865

Click on a grant title below to expand the full details for that specific grant.


20222 grants / $26,526

Project Best Practice Guidelines on Supports for Students with Sensory Processing Challenges$16,526

Funding body: Queensland Department of Education

Funding body Queensland Department of Education
Project Team Doctor Carl Leonard, Doctor Kylie Wales
Scheme Research Contract
Role Investigator
Funding Start 2022
Funding Finish 2022
GNo G2200259
Type Of Funding C2300 – Aust StateTerritoryLocal – Own Purpose
Category 2300
UON Y

Care transitions among women living with dementia$10,000

Funding body: 2021 Strategic Research Pilot Grant - College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle

Funding body 2021 Strategic Research Pilot Grant - College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle
Project Team

Mariko Carey; Michelle Kelly; Julie Byles; Jenni White.

Scheme College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing - 2021 Strategic Pilot Grant Scheme
Role Investigator
Funding Start 2022
Funding Finish 2022
GNo
Type Of Funding Internal
Category INTE
UON N

20212 grants / $23,172

Best Practice Guidelines on Supports for Students with Sensory Processing Challenges$18,179

Developing best practice guidelines related to sensory processing. This work formed a larger body of work with  Professor Alison Lane at the Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre

Funding body: Queensland Department of Education

Funding body Queensland Department of Education
Project Team

Dr Carl Leonard

Scheme Guidelines on supports for students with sensory processing challenges
Role Investigator
Funding Start 2021
Funding Finish 2023
GNo
Type Of Funding External
Category EXTE
UON N

Occupational Therapy Outcomes$4,994

Funding body: School of Health Sciences Strategic Pilot Funding

Funding body School of Health Sciences Strategic Pilot Funding
Project Team

Dr Kylie Wales & Karen Ray

Scheme School of Health Sciences Strategic Pilot Funding
Role Lead
Funding Start 2021
Funding Finish 2021
GNo
Type Of Funding Internal
Category INTE
UON N

20202 grants / $37,330

Delivering multidisciplinary healthcare services within disability and educational facilities in Fiji: Promoting sustainability through inter-professional clinical placements$33,000

Funding body: New Colombo Plan Student Mobility Project, Australian Government

Funding body New Colombo Plan Student Mobility Project, Australian Government
Project Team

Dr Kylie Wales, Dr Catherine Johnston, Joanne Walters, Judith Fogett

Scheme New Columbo Plan Mobility Grant
Role Lead
Funding Start 2020
Funding Finish 2021
GNo
Type Of Funding C1500 - Aust Competitive - Commonwealth Other
Category 1500
UON N

Enhancing client outcomes through the application of standardised assessments in occupational therapy practice - Part 2$4,330

Funding body: School of Health Sciences Strategic Pilot Funding

Funding body School of Health Sciences Strategic Pilot Funding
Project Team

Dr Kylie Wales & Professor Natasha Lannin

Scheme School of Health Sciences Strategic Pilot Funding
Role Lead
Funding Start 2020
Funding Finish 2020
GNo
Type Of Funding Internal
Category INTE
UON N

20191 grants / $4,974

Enhancing client outcomes through the application of standardised assessments in occupational therapy practice$4,974

Funding body: School of Health Sciences Strategic Pilot Funding

Funding body School of Health Sciences Strategic Pilot Funding
Project Team

Dr Kylie Wales and A/Professor Natasha Lannin

Scheme School of Health Sciences Strategic Pilot Funding
Role Lead
Funding Start 2019
Funding Finish 2019
GNo
Type Of Funding Internal
Category INTE
UON N

20182 grants / $8,863

Measurement in occupational therapy: Assessment of function and evaluation of outcomes$4,924

This funding will be used to design and implement a survey related to the use of standardised assessments in billable clinical environments including the NDIA.

Funding body: School of Health Sciences Strategic Pilot Funding

Funding body School of Health Sciences Strategic Pilot Funding
Project Team

Dr Kylie Wales, Dr Jacki Wesson & A/Professor Natasha Lannin

Scheme School of Health Sciences Strategic Pilot Funding
Role Lead
Funding Start 2018
Funding Finish 2018
GNo
Type Of Funding Internal
Category INTE
UON N

Systematic Review of economic evluations of occupational therapy services for adults within acute and sub-acute care$3,939

The aim of this systematic review is to determine the cost-effectiveness of occupational therapy services provided within acute and sub-acute care.

Funding body: School of Health Sciences Strategic Pilot Funding

Funding body School of Health Sciences Strategic Pilot Funding
Project Team

Dr Kylie Wales, Miia Rahja, Dr Kate Laver, Danielle Lang, Lisa Somerville & A/Professor Natasha Lannin

Scheme School of Health Sciences Strategic Pilot Funding
Role Lead
Funding Start 2018
Funding Finish 2018
GNo
Type Of Funding Internal
Category INTE
UON N
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Research Supervision

Number of supervisions

Completed7
Current2

Current Supervision

Commenced Level of Study Research Title Program Supervisor Type
2021 Honours Analysis of a stroke prevention program for community dwelling stroke survivors Occupational Therapy, School of Health Sciences Co-Supervisor
2020 Honours The impact of home modifications on clients’ function and independence in a rural setting. Occupational Therapy, School of Health Sciences Co-Supervisor

Past Supervision

Year Level of Study Research Title Program Supervisor Type
2023 PhD Self-regulation Practice in Occupational Therapy: A Conceptual Analysis PhD (Occupational Therapy), College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, The University of Newcastle Principal Supervisor
2021 Honours The Canadian occupational performance measure: A systematic review of psychometric properties Occupational Therapy, School of Health Sciences Principal Supervisor
2021 PhD Needing, Providing and Supporting Care: A Mixed-Methods Study of Older Adults' Functional Abilities and Care Needs, Caregivers' Lived Experiences, and Social Workers' Contributions in the Lives of Older Adults in Ghana PhD (Gerontology & Geriatrics), College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, The University of Newcastle Co-Supervisor
2020 Honours The role of allied health assistants in occupational therapy services in acute and subacute care: A scoping review. Occupational Therapy, School of Health Science, Faculty of Health & Medicine, The University of Newcastle Principal Supervisor
2019 Honours Remaining an Occupational Therapist: Investigating the professional resilience strategies used by Australian Occupational therapists. Occupational Therapy, School of Health Sciences Co-Supervisor
2018 Honours An Exploratory Study into the Factors Shaping Professional Resilience among Occupational Therapists Occupational Therapy, School of Health Sciences Co-Supervisor
2018 Honours Understanding the role of occupational therapists in women’s health: A scoping review Occupational Therapy, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle Principal Supervisor
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Dr Kylie Wales

Position

Honorary Senior Lecturer
School of Health Sciences
College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing

Contact Details

Email kylie.wales@newcastle.edu.au
Phone (02) 4913 8073

Office

Room ICT - 315
Building ICT
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