Table 2.

Themes and Sub-themes by Research Question

Research Question 1: PC and HSS Providers’ Perceptions of Common Health and Social Service Needs, Barriers in Accessing PC and HSS, and Service Gaps Experienced by Community-dwelling Older Adults
HHS Needs of Older Adults
• Need for improved management of multiple chronic conditions  • Need for a shared understanding of older adults’ needs and abilities  • Need for understanding and acceptance of services and supports  • Need for social support and advocacy
Barriers to Accessing HSS and PC Services for Older Adults
• Untimely access  • Restrictive eligibility criteria  • Financial challenges
Service Gaps for Older Adults
• Lack of affordable and accessible transportation  • Challenges with communication  • Health literacy
Research Question 2: The Nature of Relationships between PC and HSS
• HSS struggling to communicate with PC  • PC has stronger linkages with core health services than with HSS  • Frustration with the complex nature of HSS system navigation  • Poor care coordination
Research Question 3: System Navigation Strategies to Facilitate Access to Services for Older Adults
Theme	Sub-theme
• Improving partnerships between service providers	• Employing effective communication strategies • Building trust and rapport between HSS and PC
• Working to meet the needs of the client	• Using a person-centred approach • Applying effective case coordination • Adapting services/programs to address access barriers and fill gaps for older adults’ needs • Advocating for improved program access for older adults