This project examines the effects of linguistic and cultural discordance on home care services provided to Francophones in Ontario. While studies conducted in hospital settings have shown that language discordance between healthcare providers and patients is associated with poorer care experiences, worse health outcomes, and increased healthcare utilization, little evidence is available in the context of home care. Language discordance, defined as the absence of a shared language between providers and care recipients, is influenced by multiple factors, including language proficiency, health literacy, culture, and sociodemographic characteristics.

Previous research has highlighted limitations in access to interpretation services, power imbalances in care interactions, and insufficient support to address cultural differences. In a context where nearly 900,000 Ontarians receive home care services annually and major reforms are underway, this study aims to improve understanding of the care experiences of Francophones living in minority communities and to identify strategies to enhance communication, providers’ linguistic competencies, and support for patients and family caregivers.