Objectives: To investigate persons with dementia and their informal caregivers’ views of inter-sectoral information, communication and collaboration throughout the trajectory of dementia care, in eight European countries

Methods: 137 persons with dementia and their informal caregivers participated in focus group interviews. Content analysis generated a tentative model of information, communication and collaboration for people with dementia and their caregivers.

Results: The core nding was that information, communication and collaboration were to be focused on the persons with dementia and the informal caregivers. Entering into the trajectory of the disease and its consequences was addressed as an important point of departure. The relation to professional care required establishing a trusting relationship, tailor-made intervention and a single person or organisation to contact. Professional knowledge and commitment, variation in service, and care adapted to needs were important.

Conclusion: As focus of care is on the person with dementia and their informal caregivers, a dyadic approach seems most suitable for dementia care. A trusting relationship and a speci c person or organisation to contact seem to be indicators of best practice, as does adaptation to the needs of the person with dementia and their informal caregiver.