'I waited a year and a half to see a dermatologist': lived healthcare-seeking experiences of racialized and linguistic minority older adults: a qualitative study in Ontario, Canada.

BACKGROUND

With nearly 19% of Canadians aged 65 and older, the aging population is increasingly multicultural. Despite this diversity, research on aging among racialized populations remains limited. This study examines healthcare-seeking behavior, lived experiences, and challenges faced by older adults (≥65 years) from minority backgrounds in Ontario.

METHODS

This qualitative exploratory study employed descriptive phenomenology with 24 participants from Ontario's two largest metropolitan areas, the Greater Toronto Area and Ottawa. The sample included Asian, Black, Arab, and francophone minority older adults. Data were collected through recorded interviews and analyzed thematically using Braun and Clarke's approach.

RESULTS

The participants' mean age was 69.3 years (19 females, 5 males), including 3 Arab, 1 Asian, 13 Black older adults, and 7 White Francophones. Most (¾) had a family doctor. The majority were born outside Canada, with residence durations (years) of 6-9 (n = 2), 10-19 years (n = 4), and ≥20 (n = 11). Three major themes and a subtheme emerged from the analysis: 1. Dearth of francophone services and induced advantage for bilinguals; 2. Discrimination and racism experienced in seeking care, 2-1 Health Professionals' Attitudes and Interactions With Racialized Older Care Seekers; 3. Two-system perception of the healthcare system from an outsider. Older adults from racialized communities and francophone minorities continue to face substantial challenges, particularly due to racism and language barriers. Those with a family doctor reported greater confidence navigating healthcare. Limited access to care underscores the urgent need to improve accommodations for these populations and strengthen the essential primary healthcare model.