Overview of the categories and subcategories identified in the study with the example of codes and condensed meaning units
| Example of condensed meaning units | Example of codes | Subcategories | Categories |
| I am not able to do activities that I used to do. When I do little activities, I become tired and need rest. | Decreased physical activities Fatigue and low energy | Physical restrictions | Family daily life |
| I am afraid of being alone. I was worried what would happen to me. I do not have idea and motivation for the future like before. | Patient’s fear Anxiety Hopeless | Emotional distress | |
| I cannot go rolling coaster with my children. I avoid crowed places. | Decrease joint activities Social isolation | Social limitation | |
| I have nobody to help me; you cannot ask for help at all times. | Patient’s fear of losing independency | Fear of becoming dependent | Process of independence |
| I do not collaborate with heart association because it gives me a feeling of being ill. I do not feel that I am ill. | Avoiding sick roles Normalisation | Facing dependency | |
| They (family members) always tell me to take rest, but I have no problem to do some stuff. | Difficulty in communication Overprotective behaviour | Strained relationship | Family relationships |
| The illness made our family closer. She (wife) started to love me so much. | Good communication Positive effect of illness on relationships | Strengthened relationship |