Newcomers in Canada often face a complex adaptation process. During the period, language barriers become the major obstacles to accessing essential health-related information. For Chinese newcomers with limited English or French proficiency, understanding unscheduled over-the-counter medication can be particularly challenging. The challenges include interpreting instructions, understanding unfamiliar medical terms, and navigating limited support. Cultural differences further complicate comprehension of Western self-medication practices.
This research project explores how these linguistic and cultural challenges affect Chinese newcomers’ ability to safely use unscheduled medications in Canada. Through two inclusive facilitation sessions and two user testing sessions, this study identifies the challenges Chinese newcomers face and explores inclusive design strategies to address them. By thoughtfully creating visual aids and a user-centred app prototype, the research aims to reduce comprehension barriers and improve medication information accessibility.
This research aims to support health equity and enhance the safety of self-medication practices among linguistically diverse populations in Canada.