Researcher biography

Dr Theresa Scott is Senior Lecturer in Clinical Geropsychology and formerly NHMRC-ARC Dementia Research Development Fellow, experienced in research on functional outcomes for older persons and persons with dementia in community and residential aged care settings. Theresa's NHMRC-ARC Dementia Research Development Fellowship focused on the complex issues around dementia and driving. The aim of this research program was to translate a comprehensive support- and education-based driving cessation intervention for people with dementia and their carers, into clinical practice. The results of this research will enhance understanding of the issues for health professionals who monitor driving cessation in primary care settings; and inform the most effective strategies for primary care delivery of the intervention in metropolitan and regional areas.

Theresa is skilled in both qualitative and quantitative methods of research design and analyses, and in evaluation research. Her research to date has focused on ageing well programs, psychosocial interventions that support people with dementia and their carers, social and therapeutic horticulture to combat loneliness and depression for older people, clinical psychology postgraduate training and continuing professional development programs. Additional research interests include evidence-based complementary and expressive therapies for older adults; psychosocial interventions in long-term care environments; and attitudes to ageing and self-stereotypes.