Dr. Novak is a Scientist with the KITE Research Institute at Toronto Rehab-UHN, and an Assistant Professor in the Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy and Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education, University of Toronto. Dr. Novak’s primary research focuses on understanding mobility in challenging indoor and outdoor environments (such as stairs, ramps, bathrooms). Her work aims to understand the impact of aging and environmental factors on safe mobility, to reduce the risk of falls and support aging-in-place strategies. In addition to important clinical partnerships with VHA Home HealthCare, Dr. Novak is actively involved with current changes to the National Building Code of Canada and Canadian accessibility standards to build an age-friendly and safe environment.

“The important partnership between our research team at KITE-UHN and a leading organization in community care such as VHA Home HealthCare ensures that research is relevant and impactful. Together we aim to improve the health and safety for individuals living in their homes.”

Projects:

Bathroom safety recommendations in homecare