Unlocking potential: The potential impact of ‘Happymakers’ in alleviating the labor shortage in dementia care work

Introduction: This study aims to identify success factors and challenges of an integrated care model, with an underlying goal of addressing the labor shortage in dementia care. The research investigates the interdisciplinary communication in a long-term care facility in Amsterdam, focusing on the collaboration between the so-called ‘Happymakers’ (non-medically trained staff) and qualified personnel. The Relational Coordination Theory serves as theoretical framework, emphasizing the need for shared goals, knowledge, and mutual respect for effective communication. Methods: Using qualitative methods, the research involved interviews with thirty staff members in 2022. Results: Work satisfaction was rated very positively. The collaboration between the ‘Happymakers’ and qualified care workers was generally positive, perspectives on risk perception and task alignment varied. Trust and a culture allowing mistakes were deemed crucial. Discussion, Conclusion: Overall, the findings suggest that the integration model which includes the paradigm shift from care to well-being, positively influences care quality as well as job satisfaction potentially alleviating the labor market shortage. The study suggests further research on strategies for integrating formal with informal care work and comparative research between integrated dementia care and more traditional, medical oriented types of care.