209 The experiences of native Irish speaking older adults in navigating healthcare services in Ireland: a generic qualitative inquiry

Abstract

Abstract Background Research on the impact of language barriers in healthcare is well-developed. However, limited evidence includes the patient perspective. Furthermore, there is an absence of qualitative literature on the healthcare experiences of native Irish speaking older adults, despite the population’s recent and predicted growth. This study aims to provide insight into the healthcare experiences of native Irish speaking older adults, who dwell in Gaeltacht areas, and to explore their perspectives on what promotes or hinders their access to healthcare services in Ireland. Methods Participants were recruited through poster and radio advertisement. Convenience sampling was used. The researcher conducted semi-structured interviews in the Irish language with seven participants. Interviews were conducted in a health unit, audio recorded and transcribed. Data was coded using Nvivo software and analysed thematically through the Irish language. Quotations were presented in both Irish and English to illustrate findings. Results Participants reported their experiences of Irish healthcare services, and preferences for healthcare interactions. Shared communications preferences included using pidgin Irish, English, or interpreters. Participants preferred if healthcare providers were proficient in both Irish and English, and valued a long-standing therapeutic relationship with healthcare providers. In addition, participants commented that communicative difficulties they experienced must be exacerbated for monoglot Irish speakers. Conclusion Native Irish speaking older adults’ healthcare experiences aren’t ‘black and white’. Each participant had individual preferences for communication during healthcare interactions, speaking from both negative and positive experiences. To cater for the native Irish speaking older adult population in Gaeltacht areas, a consensus among participants was that healthcare providers working in these areas should be fluent in Irish and English, and have a long-term contract. This study highlights the need for language concordant care to be available for native Irish speaking older adults living in rural Gaeltacht areas, and further emphasises the importance of language concordant care for minority language speaking populations.