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Table 2 Themes and subthemes regarding partner’s experiences of living with a person with long-term illness

From: Living with a spouse with chronic illness – the challenge of balancing demands and resources

Themes

Subthemes

Managing challenges in daily life

Balancing leisure activities to suit the spouse’s health

Adapting social life to the spouse’s health

Taking over many practical things is a balancing act

Seeking support and use own capabilities to manage life

Trying to find support

Taking advantage of resources and earlier experiences

Appreciating the good parts of life

Having relationships with family members and friends

Being able to enjoy life values gives satisfaction

Adapting to constant changes and an uncertain future

Finding ways to accept the spouse’s illness

Worrying about the future