The 2024 LSA Innovate Forum provided a unique opportunity to discuss the innovative research funded by the LSA to improve quality of life for current and future LSS participants.
Following the successful launch of the inaugural LSA Innovate Forum last year, tickets to the 2024 event were completely sold out. The Forum welcomed 70 researchers, academics, service providers, participants and key partners in road safety and road trauma to the Adelaide Town Hall on Tuesday 17 September 2024. Guests enjoyed canapes, drinks and networking before the official presentations kicked off.
Kylie Smith, Director, Services opened the Forum and introduced the LSA and the REP grant program. The LSA has a legislative obligation to fund research, education and programs (REP) that address road trauma recovery. The REP grant program is dedicated to supporting research and projects which advance the frontiers of spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injuries and other road trauma related outcomes. Through this program, researchers can investigate and develop cutting-edge strategies and approaches which could ultimately support the treatment, care and support of participants.
The quality and breadth of the formal presentations was a talking point as three researchers, funded by the LSA program and leaders in their field, showcased their work.
Associate Professor Zoe Adey-Wakeling explored how dance therapy can aid recovery for those with acquired brain injuries (ABI). Professor Adey-Wakeling’s presentation featured videos of study participants engaging in dance rehabilitation, adding a dynamic storytelling element that resonated with the audience. Learn more about this research by watching the Dance Rehabilitation Documentary Summary on the LSA YouTube channel.
Dr John Baranoff investigated combining the Progressive Goal Attainment Program (PGAP) and vocational rehabilitation. The participants of this study were exclusively LSS participants with an ABI. The findings offer important insights for vocational rehabilitation treatment practices for those living with an ABI.
Associate Professor Courtney Ryder highlighted the patient journey for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities following road traffic injuries. Her presentation was a powerful combination of statistics demonstrating the overrepresentation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in road trauma and sharing stories gathered from those communities through yarning sessions.
The Forum also featured a Q&A session with the three keynote speakers moderated by Kylie Smith, Director, Services. The session resonated with the audience with numerous guests raising questions covering a wide range of topics. The informative discussion delved deeper into each research project offering valuable insights.
Planning is already underway to make the 2025 LSA Innovate Forum even better. Stay tuned for details! If you would like to stay informed of Research, Education and Program news and events, please click here to subscribe to our mailing list.
