Dr. Claire Donnellan

Dr. Claire Donnellan

Adjunct Associate Professor, School of Nursing & Midwifery

http://peoplefinder.tcd.ie/cdonnel

Biography

Professor Claire Donnellan is the Founder and Executive Director of New Generation Ageing, an independent research and innovation enterprise based in Australia, focused on advancing gerontological research and health professions education. A distinguished academic leader with 30+ years' experience in nursing, health psychology, and gerontological research, she combines deep expertise in research leadership and health professions education with entrepreneurial vision for advancing evidence-based innovation in ageing services and care. The founding of New Generation Ageing in 2025 represents Professor Donnellan's commitment to translating decades of research into real-world ageing innovation and practice. This enterprise focuses on research-informed solutions for older adults' health, well-being, and social engagement. In parallel, She is an Adjunct Associate Professor at Trinity College Dublin and a Graduate Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD). She continues as a core team member of the Australian Association of Gerontology - Western Australia Executive Team, Australasian Institute of Digital Health, Australian Society for Medical Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Australian & New Zealand Mental Health Association and the Global Observatory of Long-Term Care. She previously served as Facilitator and Teaching Staff on the CHARM-EU Consortium (Challenge-driven, Accessible, Research-based Mobile European University), a €5+ million Erasmus+ funded initiative across nine universities (https://charm-eu.eu/learning/international-mobility-opportunities/student-mobility-opportunities/charm-eu-institutions/), where she led curriculum design and teaching and learning strategy for the Life and Health KCT (2020-2025). Prior to founding New Generation Ageing, Professor Donnellan held leadership positions in academic institutions across Ireland, the United Kingdom, Middle East, and Australia. She served as Professor of Nursing Research at Edith Cowan University, Perth (2023-2025); Director for International Initiatives and Global Relations at Trinity College Dublin School of Nursing and Midwifery (2016-2018); and Programme Subject Lead for Psychology at Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Bahrain (2013-2016). She has completed formal governance training (GAICD, Australian Institute of Company Directors) and brings strategic experience in institutional development, international partnerships, research-informed curriculum innovation, and entrepreneurial leadership. Her scientific interests include examining and understanding the consequences of large and small cerebral vessel disease and neurodegeneration on the behavioural and cognitive health of older adults, with particular emphasis on translating research into practical solutions for aged care and health professions education. Her research programme is characterised by a translational approach, connecting basic neuroscience findings (neuroimaging biomarkers, cognitive assessment) with clinical practice, health systems implementation, and now enterprise innovation. Key research themes include: (1) Cognitive and psychological outcomes in cerebrovascular disease and neurodegeneration (2) Implementation science and knowledge translation, how research evidence is adopted in healthcare practice (3) Healthy ageing and reablement frameworks for older adults with chronic conditions (4) Gerontology research and health professions education (5) Research-informed innovation in aged care services and models. This work has generated 50+ peer-reviewed publications with significant scholarly impact (4,000+ cumulative citations; 165+ citations on lead-author publications), demonstrated leadership of interdisciplinary research teams, contributions to international research initiatives (cardiovascular and movement disorders" trials, stroke research networks, EU consortia), and now enterprise development focused on ageing innovation and practice translation.

Publications and Further Research Outputs

  • O'Neill D, Moss H, Donnellan C, Aesthetic health, hospitals and older people, Gerontologist, Gerontological Society of America, Orlando, Florida, USA, 18-22 Nov 2015, 55, (Suppl 2), 2015, pp545-546Meeting Abstract, 2015
  • Marhoon Z, Borgan S, Kamel C, Maddison W, Donnellan C, , Depression, anxiety and subjective well-being among medical students in Bahrain, Academic Psychiatry, 42, (1), 2018, p31 - 40Journal Article, 2018, DOI
  • Donnellan C, Al Banna M, Redha N, AlSharoqi I, Al-Jishi A, Bakhiet M, Taha S, Abdulla F , Association between metacognition and mood symptoms post stroke, Journal of geriatric psychiatry and Neurology, 29, (4), 2016, p212 - 220Journal Article, 2016, DOI
  • Donnellan C, Walsh P, Association of Apolipoprotein E and other biomarkers with cognitive impairment post stroke: A systematic review of the literature, Neurobiology of Aging, 2021Journal Article, 2021
  • Donnellan C, The Baltes' model of successful aging and its considerations for geriatric care management, , Journal of Aging Life Care, Fall, 2015Journal Article, 2015
  • Donnellan C, Al Banna M, Redha N, Al Sharoqi I, Al-Jishi A, Bakhiet M, Taha S, Abdulla F. , Metacognition versus global cognition determining mood symptoms post stroke,, International Journal of Stroke, European Stroke Organisation Conference, 10, (Suppl. 2), 2015, pp186-Meeting Abstract, 2015
  • Donnellan C, Explaining the concept healthy ageing for health professionals, Journal of Population Ageing, 2022Journal Article, 2022
  • Donnellan C,Sprakel J, 'RCSI Bahrain stroke awareness video', https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tZfaOoVEG9g, 2016, -Film production, 2016
  • Donnellan C, Associations between metacognition and global cognition with mood symptoms post stroke. , International Psychology Conference , Dubai, 30th October, 2015Invited Talk, 2015
  • Donnellan C, Successful ageing, The Ageing Summit 2015, The O2 Complex, London, 11-12 Feb 2015, 2015Invited Talk, 2015
  • Donnellan C, Redha N, Al Banna M, Al Sharoqi I, Al-Jishi A, Bakhiet M, Taha S, Walsh P, Abdulla F,, Associations between ApoE genotype and psychological consequences post stroke in a Bahraini cohort, Asian Journal of Psychiatry, 39, 2019, p135 - 142Journal Article, 2019, DOI
  • Hayes, S., Donnellan, C., Stokes, E., Executive dysfunction and balance function post-stroke: A cross-sectional study, Physiotherapy (United Kingdom), 102, (1), 2016, p64-70Journal Article, 2016, DOI
  • Hayes, S., Donnellan, C., Stokes, E., The measurement and impairment of executive function after stroke and concepts for physiotherapy | Pomiar i zaburzenie funkcji wykonawczej po udarze mózgu a stosowanie fizjoterapii, Rehabilitacja Medyczna, 16, (2), 2012, p34-46Journal Article, 2012
  • Donnellan C, Approaches to healthy ageing, Seminar for Older People, Accountant's House, Dublin, 13th October , 2016Invited Talk, 2016
  • Donnellan C, Successful (Healthy) ageing: Is it the solution for nursing in response to population ageing? , International Conference on Nursing, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 5th - 7th December, 2016Invited Talk, 2016
  • Donnellan C, Al Banna M, Redha N, Al Sharooqi I, Al Jishi A, Bakhiet M, Taha S, Abdulla F, Metacognition versus global cognition and executive function determining mood symptoms post stroke, International Conference for Nursing, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 5th - 7th December, 2016Invited Talk, 2016
  • Donnellan C, Psychological comorbidity and biological factors post stroke in a Middle-Eastern cohort , 2nd International Conference on Central Nervous System Disorders and Therapeutics, Dubai, UAE, 7th December , 2016Invited Talk, 2016
  • Al Banna M, Redha NA, Abdulla F, Donnellan C, Memory Complaints and Memory Function in a Stroke Population, International Association of Geriatrics and Gerontology - European Region , Dublin, Ireland , 23rd - 26th April , 2016Poster, 2016
  • Redha N, Al Banna M, Taha S, Donnellan C, Apolipoprotein E and other serum biomarkers for cognitive impairmentin post-post-stroke: A review of the evidence , International Association of Geriatrics and Gerontology - European Region , Dublin, Ireland , 23rd - 26th April , 2016Poster, 2016
  • O'Byrne S, Zacharowski K, Donnellan C, Johnston A, Gray PA, Vojnovic I, Forte P, Del Soldato P, Benjamin N, The Absorption, Distribution and Metabolism of Nitroflurbiprofen (HCT 1026) in Healthy Volunteers, Proceedings of the Western Pharmacology Society, Proceedings of the Western Pharmacology Society, 44, Seattle, Wash.: The Society, 2001, pp213 - 213Meeting Abstract, 2001
  • Claire Donnellan, Mona Al Banna, Noor Redha, Adel Al Jishi, Isa Al Sharoqi, Safa Taha, Moiz Bakhiet, Fatema Abdulla, Patrick Walsh, Predictors of Vascular Cognitive Impairment Poststroke in a Middle Eastern (Bahrain) Cohort: A Proposed Case-Control Comparison, JMIR Research Protocols, 5, (4), 2016, pe223Journal Article, 2016, DOI
  • C Donnellan , Adaptation to stroke and a model of successful ageing, Trinity College Dublin , 2008Thesis, 2008
  • Donnellan C , Psychological comorbidity and biological factors post stroke in a Middle-Eastern cohort, Journal of Neurology and Neurophysiology , 2nd International Conference on Central Nervous System Disorders and Therapeutics , Dubai, UAE, 5th-7th December 201, 7, (5), 2016Conference Paper, 2016, DOI , URL
  • Donnellan C, Redha N, Al Banna M Al Jishi A, Al Sharoqi I, Bakhiet M,Abdulla F, Associations between ApoE genotype and psychological consequences post stroke, Innovations in Aging, 1, (1), 2017, p1154-Journal Article, 2017, DOI
  • Hayes S, Donnellan C, Stokes E, Response to Letter to the Editor re: 'Executive dysfunction and balance function post-stroke: a cross-sectional study', Physiotherapy , 2016Journal Article, 2016, DOI
  • Donnellan C, Mind the gap: Health disparity and equity, The Irish Psychologist, 47th Annual Conference of the Psychological Society of Ireland, Limerick , 08-11 November 2017, 44, (1), 2017, ppS5 - S5Conference Paper, 2017
  • Donnellan C and Werring D , Cognitive impairment before and after intracerebral haemorrhage: a systematic review. , Neurological Sciences , 41, 2020, p509 - 527Journal Article, 2020, DOI , TARA - Full Text
  • Donnellan C and Werring D , Neuropsychological assessment of cognitive impairment before and after spontaneous intracerebral haemorrhage: a systematic review, European Journal of Stroke, European Stroke Organisation, Milan , 22nd -24th May , 4, (1), 2019, pp282 - 283Conference Paper, 2019
  • Estupinan Artiles C, Regan J, Donnellan C, Dysphagia Screening in Residential Care Settings: A Scoping Review, International Journal of Nursing Studies, 114, 2021, p103813Journal Article, 2021, DOI
  • Estupinan Artiles C, Regan J, Donnellan C, Dysphagia screening for post stroke patients living in residential care settings: a scoping review, International Journal of Stroke, European Stroke Organisation/World Stroke Organisation Conference 2020, Online , 7th-9th November , 15, (1 (Suppl)), 2020, pp353-Conference Paper, 2020, DOI
  • Donnellan C, Identifying levels and scope of nurse specialist practice in the pathway of stroke care: An International Perspective, International Journal of Stroke, European Stroke Organisation/World Stroke Organisation Conference 2020, Online , 7th-9th November , 15, (1 (Suppl)), 2020, pp160-Conference Paper, 2020
  • Donnellan C, Cohen H, Werring D, Systematic review of associations between antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), cognition and neuroimaging biomarkers, International Journal of Stroke, European Stroke Organisation/World Stroke Organisation Conference 2020, Online , 7th-9th November , 15, (1 (Suppl)), 2020, pp645-Conference Paper, 2020
  • Donnellan C, Cohen H, Werring D, Cognitive dysfunction and associated neuroimaging biomarkers in antiphospholipid syndrome: a systematic review, Rheumatology, 16, (1), 2022, p24 - 41Journal Article, 2022, DOI
  • Journal of Clinical Nursing Studies, US, Sciedu Press, [eds.], 2013Editorial Board, 2013
  • Donnellan C , Perspectives on respite care services and recreation activities for individuals with a physical disability, Disability and Rehabilitation , 2020Journal Article, 2020
  • Vind, A. B., Andersen, H. E., Schwarz, P., Skalska, A., Salakowski, A., Dubiel, M., . . . Pellerito, S. , Oral and Poster Papers Submitted for Presentation at the 5th Congress of the EUGMS, The Journal of Nutrition, Health & Aging, 12, (8), 2008, p545 - 593Journal Article, 2008, DOI
  • Donnellan C, Cohen H, Werring D, Cognitive impairment and associated neuroimaging biomarkers in antiphospholipid syndrome: A systematic review, Rheumatology, 2021Journal Article, 2021, DOI
  • Donnellan C. , Peer Review Report For: Stress in nurses' caring for stroke patients and families: a mixed-method study [version 1; peer review: 2 approved with reservations]. HRB Open Res 2020, 3:51 (https://doi.org/10.21956/hrbopenres.14177.r28532), 3: 51, 2020Report, 2020, DOI
  • Estupinan Artiles C, Regan J, Donnellan C, Physiological Mechanisms and Associated Pathophysiology of Dysphagia in Older Adults, Nurse Education Today , 2022Journal Article, 2022
  • Estupinan Artiles C, Regan J, Donnellan C, Establishing content validity of a survey determining dysphagia prevalence and practices in residential long-term care settings, Age and Ageing , Irish Gerontological Society Annual and Scientific Meeting New Frontiers in Gerontology , 2022Poster, 2022
  • C. Estupiñán Artiles, C. Donnellan, , J. Regan , M. Mooney 1, Referral patterns and access to speech and language therapy dysphagia services in residential long-term care settings in the Republic of Ireland: A cross-sectional survey, European Society for Swallowing Disorders, European Society of Swallowing Disorders, Toulouse, November 28th, essd2023.org, 2023, ppessd2023.orgConference Paper, 2023
  • Tadhg Stapleton, S Moriarty, Tara Cusack, Breon White, M. Casey, Keith M. Smart, Ashley R. Poynton, Catherine Doody, Patricia Gillivan"Murphy, Paul Carding, Nick Miller, Aoife Stephenson, Catherine Blake, Malachi McKenna, Susan van der Kamp, Caitríona Cunningham, Oliver FitzGerald, Ulrik McCarthy Persson, Marie Guidon, Hannah McGee, Kieran O"Sullivan, Peter O"Sullivan, Leonard O"Sullivan, Wim Dankaerts, Sara Hayes, Claire Donnellan, Emma Stokes, Sophie Doyle, Deirdre Hurley-Osing, Xiaoli Huang, Helen French, Caitríona Fingleton, Catherine Doody, Gillian McHugh, Alison Warren, Amanda M. Clifford, Cillan Condon, Katie Cremin, Edel Cronin, Katherine Doyle, Hayley A. Hamilton, Sue O"Sullivan, Siobhan Gilligan, Fiona Rothwell, Keith O"Connor, Louise O"Leary, Klara Anderson, A. Egan, Roisin O"Grady, Julia A. O"Rourke, Rónán Collins, Brian Condon, David Twoomey, Sinéad E. Delahunty, Eamonn Delahunt, Catherine Blake, Lynn O"Toole, Deirdre Connolly, Susan M. Smith, A Curley, Fiachra Macleid, Edwenia O"Malley, Siobhan Magner, John Murphy, Catherine Blake, Claire Hickey, Eamonn Delahunt, Michael Walsh, Timothy O"Brien, Diarmaid Fitzgerald, Marcin Uszynski, Aidan Larkin, David C. Sands, Sheila Sheridan, Marie T. Killeen, Carmel Burke, Susan Coote, Rachel Collins, Gemma Garvey, Deirdre Connolly, Jamie Sheehy, Clare O"Sullivan, Olukayode Balogun, Maura Moran, Carole Murphy, Peter Ward, Eileen Reilly, Mairead Traynor, Melissa Chavira, Eimear Ring, Miriam Mullaney, Siobhan Twomey, Claire E. Trotter, Lucinda Edge, Mohammed Atham, Laura Fitzharris, Conor Mc Nally, Michelle J. S. Spencer, Barry Kehoe, Joanne Dowds, Abstracts of the Rehabilitation and Therapy Research Society Eighth Annual Conference, Physical Therapy Reviews, 18, (1), 2013, p58 - 77, p58-77Journal Article, 2013, DOI
  • Donnellan C, Hevey D, Hickey A, O'Neill D , Defining and quantifying coping after stroke: a review, Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Psychiatry, 77, (11), 2006, p1208 - 1218Journal Article, 2006, DOI
  • Zacharowski P, Zacharowski K, Donnellan C, Johnston A, Forte P, Del Soldato P, Benjamin N and O'Byrne S , The metabolic fate of nitroflurbiprofen (HCT 1026) in healthy volunteers, Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics, 76, 2004, p350 - 358Journal Article, 2004, DOI
  • Donnellan C, Hickey A, Hevey D, O'Neill D , Stroke and well-being: Implications of initial stroke severity and strategies of adaptation, Psychology and Health, European Health Psychology Conference, Galway , 20, 2005, pp29-Conference Paper, 2005
  • Donnellan C, Hevey D, Hickey A, O'Neill D , Defining and quantifying coping after stroke, Irish Journal of Medical Science, 53rd Annual Scientific Meeting of the Irish Gerontological Society, Limerick, 174 , (Suppl 2), 2005, pp59-Conference Paper, 2005
  • Donnellan C, Hevey D, Hickey A, O'Neill D , Coping with stroke: A review of measurement, Cerebrovascular Diseases , 14th European Stroke Conference, Bologna, Italy, 19, (suppl 2), 2005, pp130-Conference Paper, 2005
  • Donnellan C, Hevey D, Hickey A, O'Neill D , Adaptive strategies in the acute phase following a stroke, Cerebrovascular Diseases, 15th European Stroke Conference, Brussels, Belgium, 21, (suppl 4), 2006, pp20-Conference Paper, 2006
  • Donnellan C, Hickey A, Hevey D, O'Neill D , Adaptive strategies in acute stroke, Psychology and Health, 20th European Health Psychology Symposium, Warsaw, Poland, 21 , (suppl 1), 2006, pp42-Conference Paper, 2006
  • Donnellan C , O'Neill D , Hevey D , Hickey A , Dinsmore J , Crawford V and Stout R , Use of SOC adaptive strategies in the acute phase following stroke, 4th Congress of the European Union Geriatric Medicine Society, Geneva, Switzerland, 2006Conference Paper, 2006
  • Donnellan C, Hickey A, Hevey D, O'Neill D, Psychological and clinical predictors of depression in acute stroke, Irish Journal of Medical Science, , 54th Annual Scientific Meeting of the Irish Gerontological Society, Galway, 175, (3 (Suppl 2)), 2006, pp68-Conference Paper, 2006
  • Donnellan C, Hickey A, Hevey D, O'Neill D , Personal factors as determinants of functional activity and quality of life after stroke, Irish Journal of Medical Science, 55th Annual Scientific Meeting of the Irish Gerontological Society, Dublin, 176, (3 (Suppl 6)), 2007, ppS247-Conference Paper, 2007
  • Donnellan C, Hevey D, Hickey A, O'Neill , Coping with stroke: a review of measurement , 8th Annual Stroke Conference, Irish Heart Foundation Council on Stroke, Dublin, 2005Conference Paper, 2005
  • Donnellan C, Hevey D, Hickey A, O'Neill D , Adaptive strategies in the acute phase following a stroke, Book of Abstracts, PO04, Royal College of Surgeons Research Day , Dublin, 2006Conference Paper, 2006
  • Donnellan C, Hickey A, Hevey D, O'Neill D , Personal factors as determinants of activity and participation following stroke: A longitudinal study , 10th Annual Stroke Conference, Irish Heart Foundation Council on Stroke, Dublin , 2007Meeting Abstract, 2007
  • Donnellan C, Hickey A, Hevey D, O'Neill D , Personal Factors as determinants of activity and participation following stroke, Conference proceedings , 8th Annual Interdisciplinary Research Conference: Transforming healthcare through research, education and technology, University of Dublin, Trinity College , 7th -9th November, 2007Conference Paper, 2007
  • Donnellan C, Hickey A, Hevey D, O'Neill D , Personal factors as predictors of health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and depression after stroke, Cerebrovascular Diseases, 17th European Stroke Conference, Nice, France, May 13-16, 2008, 25, (suppl 2), Karger, 2008, pp11-Meeting Abstract, 2008
  • Donnellan C, Hickey A, Hevey D, O'Neill D, Personal factors and predictors of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and depression after stroke, J Nutrition Health Ageing, European Union Geriatric Medicine Society, Copenhagen, 3-6 Oct 2008, 12, (8), 2008, pp551Meeting Abstract, 2008
  • Crawford V, Dinsmore J, Stout R, Donnellan C, O'Neill D and McGee H , Stroke presentation and hospital management: comparison of neighbouring healthcare systems with differing policies., Stroke , 40, (6), 2009, p2143 - 2148Journal Article, 2009, DOI
  • Hickey A, McGee H, Donnellan C, Shelley E, Horgan F, O'Hanlon A and O'Neill D., Stroke awareness in the general population: knowledge of stroke risk factors and warning signs in older adults, BMC Geriatrics , 9, (35), 2009Journal Article, 2009, DOI , URL , TARA - Full Text
  • Walsh J, Feeney C, Hussey J, Donnellan C, Sources of stress and psychological morbidity among Irish undergraduate physiotherapy students , Journal of Physiotherapy , 96, 2010, p206 - 212Journal Article, 2010, DOI
  • Hickey A, Donnellan C, McGee H, Horgan F, O'Neill D, Stroke severity and illness perceptions during acute post-stroke hospital care, Cerebrovascular Diseases, 18th European Stroke Conference, Stockholm, 26th-29th May , 27, (Suppl 6), Karger, 2009, pp87-Meeting Abstract, 2009
  • O'Neill D, Crawford V, Dinsmore J, Stout RW, Donnellan C, McGee H, Stroke presentation and hospital management: comparison of neighbouring healthcare systems with differing health policies, Cerebrovascular diseases, 18th European Stroke Conference, Stockholm, 26th-29th May, 27, (Suppl 6), Karger, 2009, pp228-Meeting Abstract, 2009
  • Donnellan C, Hevey D, Hickey A, O'Neill D, Personal factors as predictors of health-related quality of life and depression after stroke, Psychology and Health, 22nd Annual Conference of the European Health Psychology Society, Bath, UK, 9th-12th September, 23, (Suppl 1), 2008, pp108-Meeting Abstract, 2008
  • Coughlan M, Keenan P, Porter M, Costello P and Donnellan C, A comparative study of MCQ and written biology question results in the assessment of undergraduate second year student nurses in an Irish university, Book of abstracts, 9th Annual Interdisciplinary Research Conference, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, 5th-7th November , 2008, pp63 - 64Meeting Abstract, 2008
  • Donnellan C, Hickey A, Hevey D, O'Neill D, Effect of acute depression and anxiety on stroke recovery, Cerebrovascular Diseases, 27, (Suppl 6), 2009, pp42 - 42Meeting Abstract, 2009
  • Donnellan C, Hickey A, McGee H, Do discrepancies in patient and carer perceptions of stroke predict recovery?, Psychology and Health, European Health Psychology, Pisa, 24, (suppl 1), 2009, pp40 - 41Meeting Abstract, 2009
  • Dinsmore J, Crawford V, Donnellan C, O'Neill D., Stroke, illness perception and quality of life, Irish Journal of Medical Science, 178, ((Suppl 8)), 2009, ppS292 - S292Meeting Abstract, 2009
  • Donnellan C, Conlon A, Collins DR, O'Neill D, Can patients' experiences inform patient-focused interventions in stroke rehabilitation?, Cerebrovascular Diseases, 19th European Stroke Conference, Barcelona, 25th-29th May , 29, (supp 2), 2010Meeting Abstract, 2010
  • Elliot N, Donnellan C, McLaren S, Mood assessment tools for healthcare professionals in stroke care: a review of clincal utility evidence and its implications, Cerebrovascular Diseases, 19th European Stroke Conference, Barcelona, 29, (supp 2), 2010Meeting Abstract, 2010
  • J. Dinsmore, C. Donnellan, D. O'Neill, V. Crawford, Stroke, illness perception and quality of life, European Geriatric Medicine, 6th Congress European Union Geriatric Medicine Society, Dublin, 2010, 1, 2010, ppB038 - B038Published Abstract, 2010
  • C. Donnellan, V. Andrews, R. Collins, D. O'Neill, Mapping patients' experiences after stroke onto a patientfocused intervention framework, European Geriatric Medicine, 6th Congress European Union Geriatric Medicine Society, Dublin, 2010, 1, 2010, ppB039 - B039Meeting Abstract, 2010
  • A. Hickey, C. Donnellan, H. McGee, F. Horgan, D. O'Neill, Do discrepancies in patient and carer perceptions of stroke predict recovery?, European Geriatric Medicine, 6th Congress European Union Geriatric Medicine Society, D, 2010, 1, 2010, ppB040 - B040Meeting Abstract, 2010
  • Hayes S, Donnellan C and Stokes E, The assoctaion between executive function impairment and physical performance after stroke, European Geriatric Medicine, European Union of Geriatric Medicine, 1, (Suppl 1), 2010, ppS95-Meeting Abstract, 2010
  • Hayes S, Donnellan C, Stokes E, The measurement and impairment of executive function after stroke and concepts for physiotherapy , Physical Therapy Reviews , 16, (3), 2011, p178 - 190Journal Article, 2011, DOI
  • Donnellan C, Hickey A, Hevey D, O'Neill D, Effect of mood symptoms on recovery one year after stroke., International journal of geriatric psychiatry, 25, (12), 2010, p1288 - 1295Journal Article, 2010, DOI
  • Bensimon G, Ludolph A, Agid Y, Vidailhet M, Payan C, Leigh PN; NNIPPS Study Group, Riluzole treatment, survival and diagnostic criteria in Parkinson plus disorders: the NNIPPS study., Brain. , 132, 2009, p156 - 171Journal Article, 2009
  • Hayes S, Donnellan C, Stokes E, The association between executive function impairment and exercise performance after stroke, Physiotherapy, World Physical Therapy , Amsterdam, 20-23 June 2011, 97, (Supplement 1), Elsevier , 2011Meeting Abstract, 2011
  • Donnellan, C, Collins, R, O'Neill, D, Mapping patients' experiences after stroke onto aperson-centred intervention framework, The Irish Psychologist, The Psychological Society of Ireland Annual Conference, 38, (1), 2011, pp30 - 31Meeting Abstract, 2011
  • Donnellan C, Sweetman S, Shelley E, Implementing stroke clinical guidelines: perceived facilitators and barriers, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin , November, 2011, 1-89Report, 2011
  • Donnellan, C., Hevey, D., Hickey, A., & O'Neill, D., Adaptation to stroke using a model of successful aging., Neuropsychology, development, and cognition, 19, (4), 2012, p530 - 547Journal Article, 2012, DOI
  • Donnellan C, Martins A, Conlon A, Coughlan T, O'Neill D, Collins DR, Mapping patients' experiences after stroke onto a patient-focused intervention framework., Disability and Rehabilitation, 35, (6), 2012, p483-91Journal Article, 2012, DOI
  • Hayes S, Donnellan C, Stokes E, Associations between executive function and physical function post- stroke: a pilot study, Physiotherapy, 99, (2), 2012, p165-71Journal Article, 2012, DOI
  • Donnellan C, Martins A, Conlon A, Coughlan T, O'Neill D, Collins DR, , Mapping patients' experiences after stroke onto a patient-focused intervention framework, Neurorehabilitation and Neural Repair, World Congress of NeuroRehabilitation, Melbourne, 16th-19th May, 2012, pp74 - 75Meeting Abstract, 2012, DOI
  • Donnellan C, Sweetman S, Shelley E, DonImplementing stroke clinical guidelines: perceived facilitators and barriers, Neurorehabilitation and Neural Repair, World Congress of NeuroRehabilitation, Melbourne, 16th-19th May , 2012, pp75 - 76Meeting Abstract, 2012, DOI
  • Hayes S, Donnellan C, Stokes E, The relationship between executive dysfunction and physical post stroke, Cerebrovascular Diseases, 21st European Stroke Conference, Lisbon, 22nd-26th May , 2012Meeting Abstract, 2012
  • Donnellan C, Sweetman S, Shelley E, Health professionals' adherence to stroke clinical guidelines: a review of the literature, Health Policy, 111, (3), 2013, p245-263Journal Article, 2013, DOI
  • Donnellan C, Sweetman S, Shelley E, Implementing clinical guidelines in stroke: a qualitative study of perceived facilitators and barriers, Health Policy, 111, (3), 2013, p234-244Journal Article, 2013, DOI
  • Moss H, Donnellan C, O'Neill D, A review of qualitative methodologies used to explore patient perceptions of arts and healthcare., Medical Humanities, 38, (2), 2012, p106-109Journal Article, 2012, DOI
  • Donnellan C, Hevey D, Hickey A, O'Neill D, Adaptation to stroke using a model of successful ageing, Aging, Neuropsychology and Cognition, 19, (4), 2012, p530 - 547Journal Article, 2012, DOI
  • Donnellan C, O'Neill D, The Baltes' SOC model of successful ageing as a potential framework for stroke rehabilitation, Disability and Rehabilitation, 36, (5), 2014, p424-429Journal Article, 2014, DOI
  • Donnellan C, Sweetman S, Shelley E, Facillitators and barriers for implementation of the Irish National Stroke Guidelines, Irish Journal of Medical Science, 60th Annual and Scientific Meeting of the Irish Gerontological Society, University College Cork, 14th and 15th Sept, 181, (Supplement 7), 2012, ppS242-Meeting Abstract, 2012
  • Hayes S, Donnellan C, Stokes E, Executive Dysfunction is independently associated with balance post stroke, Irish Journal of Medical Science, 60th Annual and Scientific Meeting of the Irish Gerontological Society, University College Cork, 14th and 15th Sept, 181, (Supplement 7), 2012, ppS245-Meeting Abstract, 2012
  • Walsh J, Feeney C, Hussey J, Donnellan C, Clinical placement: An evaluation of stressors and time demands for undergraduate physiotherapy students, Physiotherapy, World Physical Therapy, Amsterdam, 20th-23rd June , 97, (Supplement 1), 2011, pp1322 - 1323Oral Presentation, 2011, DOI , URL
  • Brown RG, Lacomblez L, Landwehrmeyer BG, Bak T, Uttner I, Dubois B; NNIPPS Study Group, Cognitive impairment in patients with multiple system atrophy and progressive supranuclear palsy, Brain, 133(Pt 8), 2010, p2382 - 2392Journal Article, 2010, DOI , TARA - Full Text
  • Donnellan C, Sweetman S, Shelley E, Health professionals' adherence to stroke clinical guidelines: A review of the literature, Program and abstract book, Australasian Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, Sydney , 17th -21st September, 2013, pp98 - 99Meeting Abstract, 2013
  • Donnellan C, REsources And LIfe Strategy Management (REALISM) After Stroke: A Proposed Rehabilitation Intervention  , Program and abstract book, Australasian Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, Sydney , 17th -21st September, 2013, pp98 - 99Meeting Abstract, 2013
  • Davies, A.*, Panzer, M.**, Alexandrova, A., Barker, M., Bellardita, L., Boehmer, S., et al, How to CREATE interventions: A comprehensive checklist to guide the development of, Psychology and Health, 21, 2006, 37Journal Article, 2006
  • Coyne I, Murphy M, Costello T, O'Neill C & Donellan C., A Survey of Nurses' Practices and Perceptions of Family Centered Care in Ireland. , Journal of Family Nursing, 19, (4), 2013, p469 - 488Journal Article, 2013, DOI
  • Moss H, Donnellan C, O'Neill D, Hospitalization and Aesthetic Health in Older Adults., Journal of the American Medical Directors Association, 16, (2), 2015, p173.e11-6Journal Article, 2015, DOI
  • Donnellan C, Al Banna M, Ghuloom N, Al Sheroqi I, Al-Jishi A, Bakhiet M, Taha S, Walsh P, Whitford D, Abdulla F. , Predictors of vascular cognitive impairment post stroke in a Bahraini cohort: A case-control proposed comparison, International Journal of Stroke, World Stroke Congress, Istanbul, 22 October , 9, 2014, pp321-Published Abstract, 2014
  • Donnellan C, REsources And LIfe Strategy Management (REALISM) trial: Protocol for a stroke rehabilitation intervention using a goal setting and attainment framework, International Journal of Stroke, World Stroke Congress, Istanbul, 22nd October , 9, 2014, pp211-Published Abstract, 2014
  • Al Banna M, Ghuloom N, Abdulla F, Donnellan C, Metacognitive function post-stroke: A review of definition and assessment, International Journal of Stroke, World Stroke Congress, Istanbul, 22nd-25th October, 9, 2014, pp211-Published Abstract, 2014
  • Al Banna M, Redha N, Abdulla F, Donnellan C,, Metacognitive Function Post-Stroke: A Review of Definition and Assessment, Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Psychiatry, 87, (2), 2016, p161 - 166Journal Article, 2016, DOI
  • Hayes S, Donnellan C, Stokes E, Executive dysfunction post-stroke: an insight into the perspectives of physiotherapists, Disability and Rehabilitation, 37, (20), 2015, p1817 - 1824Journal Article, 2015, DOI
  • Hayes S, Donnellan C, Stokes E, , Executive dysfunction is independently associated with balance post- stroke, Physiotherapy, 102, (1), 2016, p64 - 70Journal Article, 2016, DOI
  • Donnellan C , Approaches to healthy ageing, University Brunei Darussalam , 5th December, 2018, University Brunei DarussalamInvited Talk
  • Donnellan, C, Stroke: A Multidisciplinary Dimension, 6th Annual Age-Related Nursing Conference, Adelaide and Meath Hospital incorporating the National Children's Hospital, Dublin, September , 2004Invited Talk
  • Donnellan, C, Mapping the research route in examining psychological adaptation following stroke, 8th Annual Age-Related Nursing Conference, Adelaide and Meath Hospital incorporating the National Children's Hospital, Dublin, September, 2006Invited Talk
  • Donnellan, C, Cognition and Mood Post Stroke, Stroke Study Day , St James's Hospital, 18th February , 2011Invited Talk
  • Donnellan C, Use of lifespan and other models for stroke rehabilitation, Lunchtime seminar, Rehabilitation Science, Auckland University of Technology, 21st April , 2012Invited Talk

Research Expertise

My research credentials and portfolio focus on advancing the health and wellbeing of older populations through integrated research spanning molecular, clinical, behavioural, and systemic dimensions of ageing. Foundational work examining cognitive and behavioural health following stroke and neurodegeneration has evolved to encompass broader aging challenges, including mental health systems transformation, health technology innovation, and climate-related health equity. My research themes encompass: (1) cognitive and psychological outcomes in cerebrovascular disease and neurodegeneration; (2) mental health systems transformation and health equity in aged care; (3) artificial intelligence and health technology innovation in geriatric care; (4) implementation science and knowledge translation in health systems; and (5) gerontological nursing workforce development and ageing services innovation. The vision directing my research is to continuously advocate for genuinely interdisciplinary approaches integrating molecular and clinical sciences, health psychology, implementation science, nursing expertise, social sciences, and community partnership. This systems-level perspective recognizes that contemporary aging challenges require research that bridges traditional disciplinary and sectoral boundaries. I have developed methodological expertise across quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods approaches; psychometric development and advanced statistical analysis; and implementation science frameworks. Through New Generation Ageing, I actively translate gerontological research into practice innovation with aged care services. In advancing my research agenda, I continue building established themes while engaging emerging priorities addressing global population aging"the most significant socio-demographic change of this century. This work aligns with TCD's CORE mission and United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 3 (Health and Wellbeing), 4 (Quality Education), and 10 (Reduced Inequalities).

  • Title
    The parallels between cognition and mood post stroke: a review of assessment evidence
    Summary
    Over the last decade, audits of stroke care in the UK and Ireland have identified the importance of formal assessment for cognition and mood post-stroke. Cognition and mood assessments are essential components for the planning and intervention of stroke care during the acute period and for long-term follow-up. Although there is a broad selection of cognition and mood assessment instruments including generic and stroke-specific measures in the literature, there is an under-utilisation of these instruments by clinicians. The aim of this project is to acknowledge the interface between cognitive and mood impairment post stroke i.e. correlational evidence as in cognitive impairment predictor of depression post stroke and to devise a collective method of assessment for these core functions.
    Funding Agency
    In progress
  • Title
    Strategic development of the Irish Gerontological Society
    Summary
    Aims of project are to: i. to strengthen and develop the society's activities ii. to harness in a more efficient and supportive way the energies and expertise of the members. iii. to bridge the gap between policy research and practice, as evidenced from the output of our consultation with members and older people's organisations throughout the country as part of our strategy development.
    Funding Agency
    Atlantic Philanthropies
  • Title
    Healthy Ageing Research Programme (HARP)
    Summary
    The first longitudinal study on ageing in Ireland, a joint research project between TCD, RCSI, ESRI and QUB.
    Funding Agency
    Health Research Board
    Date From
    2003
    Date To
    2007/2008
  • Title
    Facilitators and barriers to provision, delivery and impact of respite care services and recreation activities for individuals with a physical disability and their informal caregivers in the Republic
    Summary
    In the Republic of Ireland (ROI), over 5% per cent of the total population have a difficulty with basic physical activities and almost 60% report difficulty in participation in leisure and other activities as a result of physical disability. The substantial benefits of respite and recreation activity services for enhancing and improving the healthcare status of individuals with disabilities and informal caregivers have been well documented. However, national figures of services offered for individuals with a physical disability in terms of respite care and recreation activity are not available. In addition, the benefits of respite and recreation activity for adults 18 years and older with physical disability has been under researched. The overall aim is to determine facilitators and barriers regarding the provision, delivery and impact of respite care and recreation activity services for individuals with a physical disability and their informal carers in ROI. This research project will employ a participatory action research framework and will include a quantitative audit of respite services and recreation activity interventions available to individuals with a physical disability and their informal carers as part of Irish health and social services. Systematic reviews of published and web-accessed information concerning respite and recreation activity interventions, services and models for physical disability will be conducted. Subsequent qualitative individual interviews and focus groups will be carried out with relevant stakeholders including recipients of national health and social services from and from members of non-governmental organisations and not for profit organisations and charities. The research will strive to meet a national need in identifying available respite and recreation activity services for individuals with a physical disability and their informal caregivers. This will inform Irish health and social care policy regarding international best practice for respite care services and recreation activity intervention for this cohort of the population.
    Funding Agency
    Health Research Board
    Date From
    April 2019
  • Title
    CHARM-EU: Curriculum Innovation in Life and Health Sciences (Teaching & Learning Strategy Development)
    Summary
    As core team member and curriculum lead for the Life and Health Knowledge Creating Team, leading research-based curriculum development and teaching innovation for the CHARM-EU consortium spanning five European universities. Focus on evidence-based pedagogy, international student research experiences, mobile learning platforms, and scalable curriculum models for health professions education. Collaborating Institutions - Trinity College Dublin (lead) - Universitat de Barcelona - Utrecht University - Eötvös Loránd University - Université de Montpellier
    Funding Agency
    Erasmus+ Programme (European Commission)
    Date From
    September 2021
    Date To
    June 2026 (completion date)
  • Title
    Resources and Life Strategy Management (REALISM) Protocol for Care Coordination in Older Adults with Neurological Conditions (Stroke and Parkinson's disease)
    Summary
    Introduction: Some key considerations for a geriatric coordinated care intervention framework should accommodate for life management changes, alterations to self-regulation and acknowledge losses that older adults experience following age-related neurological conditions. One such framework that may be considered for use with a reablement orientation is the Baltes and Baltes Model of Selective Optimization with Compensation (SOC). A proposed intervention called REsources And LIfe Strategy Management (REALISM) was developed based on the SOC Model. The proposed aim is to determine if the REALISM intervention improves outcome in older adults with neurological deficits following stroke and Parkinson's disease. Methods: The research project will include feasibility research work in preparation for the intervention REALISM over 4 phases using the Medical Research Council framework. The aim of this intervention development is to provide older adults, their carers' and healthcare providers with a training programme on managing short- and long-term challenges as a result of neurological conditions (e.g. stroke and Parkinson's disease) using a goal setting and attainment care plan based on the adaptive strategies selection, optimization and compensation. The initial phases (1 and 2) will include protocol development through qualitative action research with stakeholders concerning reablement frameworks for aged care; and feasibility assessment using qualitative and quantitative arms regarding trajectory of conditions and the process of care from acute admission to ongoing care within the community. Phase 3 will involve piloting of the REALISM intervention in terms of training sessions and follow-ups required. The intervention study will be a single-blinded randomised control trial where the control group will receive standard care and the intervention group the REALISM training programme. Outcomes: Primary outcomes will determine improvements in physical, psychological and social functional abilities including health-related quality of life and mood. Secondary outcomes will include metacognition measured by the Meta-cognition Questionnaire 30, self-regulation measured by the Self-regulatory Interview and executive function using the Trial Making Test (A+B). Conclusions: Findings from this intervention study will establish if the use of the REALISM training programme for older adults with chronic neurological conditions and their carers' in using life management strategies will improve self-care, wellbeing and transferability of care, aiding discharge planning from acute to community settings.
    Date From
    September 2018
  • Title
    CareSavvy for Delirium: Optimising Geriatric Delirium Care with Artificial Intelligence
    Summary
    Major MRFF-funded research initiative ($2.9M) investigating artificial intelligence applications to improve delirium recognition, assessment, and care in older adults. As Co-Investigator, Professor Donnellan contributes research leadership to this innovative gerontological health services research combining neuroscience, AI/digital health, and clinical practice. Project addresses a critical gap in aged care: delirium detection and management in residential and acute care settings. This project was disqualified from initial submission due to administrative technical requirements; being revised for resubmission to demonstrate persistence and technical refinement. Represents significant research ambition and innovation in aging research. Project Status Under Review / Pending Resubmission (Administrative disqualification - technical requirements addressed for resubmission)
    Funding Agency
    MRFF 2023 Dementia, Ageing and Aged Care Mission
  • Title
    Implementing clinical guidelines in stroke: a qualitative study of perceived facilitators and barriers
    Summary
    This study aims to study how clinical guidelines are actually being implemented in clinical practice in Ireland, with a specific focus on stroke. It is important to understand how health professionals involved in stroke care view these new guidelines. Specifically, what factors do they identify as the most important in enabling the implementation of clinical guidelines? What factors do they identify as hindering implementation? The study has three main components: 1. A literature review to identify actual and perceived supports and hindrances to implementing clinical guidelines in general and for stroke care 2. Discussion with key informants to obtain their views on the factors which will influence the implementation of stroke care guidelines in Ireland 3. Based on the findings from components 1. and 2. above, to carry out focus groups with hospital professionals in Dublin, the Midlands and the Southeast to get their views on requirements to put the guidelines for stroke care into practice in Ireland. The findings from this study will inform the next step - planning and developing strategies and techniques to actually implement these important guidelines to improve stroke care in all acute hospitals.
    Funding Agency
    Irish Heart Foundation
    Date From
    September 2010
  • Title
    Mapping patients' experiences after stroke onto a patient-focused intervention framework
    Summary
    The main aim of this study was to examine the discourse given by patients after stroke indicating how they say they adjust to the associated consequences. In particular to identify and quantify categories of adaptive behaviours used by stroke patients.
    Funding Agency
    TCD start-up fund
    Date From
    July 2009
    Date To
    Mar 2010
  • Title
    Using a reablement framework for organised age-related healthcare
    Summary
    Overall research protocol - Using a reablement framework for organised age-related healthcare One of the arms of this work includes an intervention development for use in the older population with neurological age-related conditions. Resources and Life Strategy Management (REALISM) Protocol for Care Coordination in Older Adults with Neurological Conditions (Stroke and Parkinson's disease - (CVAPD)) The main study aim is to determine the usefulness of a neurological rehabilitation intervention that includes improving health literacy and using a goal setting and attainment framework (REALISM) based on the Baltes SOC model for successful ageing. The specific study objectives are to compare standard care to using the REALISM intervention in a control group and intervention group in terms of improvements in functional ability, health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and mood; to establish if the use of REALISM improves transferability of care and aids discharge planning from acute to community settings; and to evaluate REALISM in terms of ease of use by all health professionals involved in rehabilitation care of older people. Other objectives will include an overview of current services and interventions for neurological rehabilitation in acute and community settings from the perspectives of stakeholders including patients and their families and health professionals involved in the provision of neurological care for older people; a review of neurological rehabilitation provision assessed from documentary evidence in patient records; to address how prepared are patients to engage in rehabilitation interventions prescribed to them by health professionals; and to establish how involved are patients in the clinical decision-making process of their rehabilitation. A National working group is being co-ordinated in order to scope out some of the wider aims of the overall reablement approach and developments for age-related healthcare.
    Funding Agency
    HRB
    Date From
    May 2016
    Date To
    ongoing
  • Title
    Mind Your Heart, Mind Your Head, Make It Happen (MIH): Mental Health and Cardiovascular Health Integration in Primary Care
    Summary
    ECU PhD Scholarship Award project investigating integrated mental health and cardiovascular health approaches in primary care settings. As Principal Supervisor and Co-Investigator Award holder, Professor Donnellan leads the research supervision and implementation strategy for this health systems innovation research. Focuses on practical translation of mental health intervention models into routine primary care practice in Western Australia. Collaborating Institutions: Edith Cowan University Primary care practices in Western Australia Research Focus: Integration of mental health and physical health in primary care Health systems implementation research Practice translation and sustainability
    Funding Agency
    ECU PhD Scholarship Award 2024
  • Title
    Mental Health Concerns for Older Adults Affected by Climate Change
    Summary
    International collaborative research examining mental health impacts of climate change on aging populations, with specific focus on Australia-Indonesia partnership. As Co-Investigator Award holder, Professor Donnellan leads research on psychological and health impacts of climate-related stress, displacement, and health challenges in older adults. This emerging research area addresses the intersection of gerontology, mental health, climate health, and international collaboration. Project was unsuccessful in first submission; being revised for 2026 resubmission to demonstrate persistence and strategic refinement. Focus Areas: Mental health impacts of climate change Vulnerable older adults Australia-Indonesia partnership Climate health equity Health adaptation and resilience Relevance: Extends gerontology research to emerging climate health area Demonstrates international collaboration capacity Addresses health equity and vulnerable populations Connects to mental health systems focus (ALIVE Consortium)
    Funding Agency
    Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Australia-Indonesia Institute Grants Program 2023-24 Unsucc
  • Title
    Neuroimaging and Cognition in Antiphospholipid Syndrome
    Summary
    Cognitive dysfunction is documented as a common neurological manifestation of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) with greater reference to secondary APS patient groups, with Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in particular. Evidence regarding neuroimaging biomarkers may contribute further to our understanding of cognitive dysfunction in patients with APS and antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL). The aim of this project was to determine the association between cognitive dysfunction and primary and secondary APS using neuroimaging modalities' evidence.
    Date From
    October 2018
    Date To
    December 2019
  • Title
    Transformation of Online Mental Health Services (TOMHS) for Use in Community Health Settings in Western Australia
    Summary
    ECU PhD Scholarship Award project examining the transformation and adaptation of online mental health services for community health settings. As Principal Supervisor and Co-Investigator Award holder, Professor Donnellan provides research leadership for this health services innovation research. Focuses on digital health solutions, accessibility, and equitable access to mental health services in Western Australia community settings.
    Funding Agency
    ECU PhD Scholarship Award 2024
  • Title
    Cognitive function and associated correlates in stroke patients and age-matched healthy volunteers
    Summary
    In the absence of rigorous neuropsychological assessments clinically after stroke, there may be undetected subtle cognitive deficits and impairments that will affect suitability for rehabilitation intervention. Therefore, examining impairments in metacognitive knowledge and self-regulation can identify some of the anticipated limitations patients will have in performing and executing tasks as part of their rehabilitation therapy and process of adjustment. This study will also identify the risk associated for vascular cognitive impairment post-acute stroke and associated biomakers.
    Funding Agency
    Royal College of Surgeons Ireland - Bahrain
    Date From
    May 2013
  • Title
    Third Age Time Capsule on One Health (TATCO-OH): Advancing Integrated Health Systems Research for Aging Populations
    Summary
    The TATCO-OH project represents innovative research at the intersection of gerontology, public health, and systems science, applying the "One Health" integrated framework to aging populations. As Co-Investigator Award holder, Professor Donnellan leads research on how systems-level thinking integrating human health, animal health, and environmental health can advance outcomes for older adults. The project addresses increasingly critical intersections of environmental change, pandemic preparedness, zoonotic health threats, and aging populations. Originally prepared for ARC Discovery submission; being strategically refined for 2026 Expression of Interest resubmission. Demonstrates ambitious systems-level thinking in gerontological research aligned with 21st-century health priorities.
    Funding Agency
    Australian Research Council (ARC) Discovery Program
  • Title
    Neuropsychological assessment of cognitive impairment and Intracerebral Haemorrhage
    Summary
    Date From
    January 2018
    Date To
    December 2018
  • Title
    An Evaluation of the Development and Implementation of an Integrated Care Pathway for the Management of Neurogenic Dysphagia in Residential and Primary Care Settings.
    Summary
    Developing an integrated care pathway (ICP) to support the management of neurogenic dysphagia can enhance quality of care received by improving patient outcomes, promoting patient safety, increasing patient satisfaction, optimising the use of resources and increasing adherence to evidence based standards and guidelines for dysphagia management. An ICP can offer an effective framework for interdisciplinary decision making, thereby acknowledging key aspects of care and variations in the management of neurogenic dysphagia.
    Funding Agency
    TCD School of Nursing and Midwifery PhD Scholarship Fund
    Date From
    September 2020
  • Title
    Casting the Net for What Matters: ALIVE National Consortium for Equitable Wellbeing and Mental Health Systems Transformation
    Summary
    The ALIVE National Consortium represents a major $10+ million MRFF-funded initiative focused on equitable mental health systems transformation and wellbeing across Australia. As Senior Lead of the Health Inequalities Domain and member of the Consortium Leadership Group, Professor Donnellan leads research and implementation strategy addressing health disparities in mental health service access and outcomes. The consortium brings together multiple research institutions and health services to advance evidence-based, equitable mental health systems.
    Funding Agency
    MRFF 2024 Million Minds Health Research Mission Mental Health Research Grant, Australian Government
    Date From
    March 2025
  • Title
    Adaptation and Validation of the Dementia Community Attitudes Questionnaire (DCAQ)
    Summary
    ECU Early-Mid Career Researcher Grant Scheme project investigating community attitudes toward dementia through development and validation of a culturally adapted assessment tool. As Co-Investigator, Professor Donnellan contributes research leadership to this gerontological health services research. The project aims to develop validated instruments for measuring community understanding and stigma reduction in dementia care, with applications for workforce training and public health campaigns.
    Funding Agency
    ECU Early-Mid Career Researcher Grant Scheme 2024-2025
  • Title
    Whose Care is Left Behind? The ALIVE National Consortium for Equitable Wellbeing and Mental Health Systems Transformation
    Summary
    Foundational phase of the ALIVE Consortium, awarded 4 Million AUD, establishing the research, governance, and implementation framework for the larger 2024+ initiative. As Associate Investigator, Professor Donnellan contributed to consortium design and mental health systems equity research strategy.
    Funding Agency
    MRFF 2023 Million Minds Health Research Mission Mental Health Research Grant
    Date From
    January 2024
    Date To
    2027
  • Title
    Developing a new approach to stroke rehabilitation for the upper limb based on TMS neurofeedback
    Summary
    Stroke is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, and while morbidity rates in Ireland have substantially decreased in recent years, rehabilitation of survivors has not improved concurrently. In the proposed research, a state-of-the art therapy to improve upper limb function in stroke survivors will be developed, based upon a novel form of brain-computer interface. Using this approach, magnetic pulses are applied to the scalp over the location on the motor cortex that controls the arm and hand, via Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). This evokes a twitch in the stroke-affected muscles (motor evoked potential, MEP), which is recorded using electromyography. The amplitude of this twitch provides a read-out of the excitability of the neural pathways connecting the brain to the muscle. Following stroke, cortico-spinal excitability is dramatically reduced, but recent evidence suggests that its resolution to normal levels may indicate an important neurobiological mechanism of recovery. Using our TMS-neurofeedback approach, the amplitude of MEPs are displayed to the patient in real-time, with rewarding visual and auditory feedback incorporated in a game-like display, to train them over a period of several days to make the amplitudes larger. The aim is to develop the concept of TMS neurofeedback into a suitable rehabilitation intervention for stroke patients, by testing different variants of the protocol and measuring outcomes such as functional improvements, and perceived benefit reported by the users. Additionally, as re- myelination of the corticomotor structural pathways has been proposed as a key recovery mechanism in this process, we will quantify microstructural integrity of the white matter tracts in the brain pre and post neurofeedback training. We hypothesise that patients in an experimental group receiving TMS neurofeedback will demonstrate changes in corticospinal excitability following training, that will be correlated with functional improvements and re-myelination of motor pathways, compared to a control group.
    Funding Agency
    Health Research Board, Ireland
    Date From
    September 2018
    Date To
    September 2023
  • Title
    Facilitators and barriers to provision of recreational and respite care services for individuals with a physical disability and their informal caregivers in the Republic of Ireland (ROI).
    Summary
    The overall aim of this research project is to determine facilitators and barriers regarding the provision and delivery of recreational services inclusive of respite care for individuals with a physical disability and their informal carers in the Republic of Ireland (ROI). The project will strive to meet a national need in establishing what should constitute and serve the requirements of individuals with a physical disability and their informal caregivers in terms of recreational activity as part of healthcare intervention that is inclusive of leisure breaks. This research investigation will also address an essential requirement in establishing the formal current available recreational activity services and interventions (inclusive of respite breaks and holidays) exclusively for individuals aged between 18 and 65 with a physical disability. This in turn, will inform Irish healthcare policy regarding international best practice for recreational activity intervention for this cohort of the population including their informal caregivers.
    Funding Agency
    HRB
    Date From
    August 2017
    Date To
    April 2020
  • Title
    Rethinking dementia through narrative and theatre
    Summary
    Funding Agency
    ISSF application

Recognition

  • Poster prize at 8th Annual Stroke Conference, Irish Heart Foundation Council on Stroke May 2005
  • Highly commended poster at 54th Annual Scientific Meeting of the Irish Gerontological Society September 2006
  • The Noel Hickey Bursary Award, Irish Heart Foundation 2010
  • Oral platform prize at 10th Annual Stroke Conference, Irish Heart Foundation Council on Stroke May 2007
  • World Federation for NeuroRehabilitation - Membership and SIG for neuropsychology
  • International Federation of Ageing ongoing
  • Chartered Health Psychologist with Psychological Society of Ireland ongoing
  • Irish Gerontological Society ongoing
  • Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland Ongoing
  • European Stroke Organisation ongoing
  • World Stroke Organisation ongoing
  • Trinity Consortium on Ageing 2013
  • Chartered Psychologist with the Psychological Society of Ireland ongoing
  • European Health Psychology Society ongoing
  • Reviewer for International Journal of Nursing Studies 2018
  • Reviewer for International Journal of Therapy and Rehabilitation. ongoing
  • Reviewer for 21st IAGG World Congress of Gerontology and Geriatrics. 2017
  • Reviewer for Disability and Rehabilitation journal 2009
  • Reviewer for Biomed Central - Health Services Research 2013
  • Guest Editorial for Journal of Aging Life Care. 2014
  • Reviewer for Stroke Association, UK. 2016
  • Reviewer for Cogent Medicine. ongoing
  • Reviewer for the Irish Gerontological Society as the Psychology Representative 2011
  • Reviewer for Annals of Nursing and Practice. ongoing
  • Reviewer for Ageing and Mental Health. ongoing
  • Reviewer for Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Ongoing
  • Reviewer for The European Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing 2013
  • Reviewer for International Journal of Language & Communication Disorders Ongoing
  • Reviewer and Member of Evaluation Panel for Quality and Qualifications Ireland October 2021 - Present
  • Reviewer for International Journal of Stroke 2012
  • Reviewer for Biomed Central - Palliative Care. ongoing
  • Editorial Board for Clinical Nursing Studies 2013
  • Topic editor for journal Brain Sciences January
  • Reviewer for Dove Press - Patient Preference and Adherence. ongoing
  • Reviewer for Population Ageing. ongoing
  • TCD representative on Higher Education Institution Committee for the National Clinical Programme for Older People, Advanced Nursing Practice Older Persons, Clinical Guidance Framework 2017