| Categories | Subcategories |
| In the wake of COPD | Guilt and doubt |
|
| Emotional adaption |
|
| Adaption in time and place |
|
| The time remaining |
| Balancing between diminishing ability and increasing restrictions | I am out of breath all the time |
|
| Restriction in the manner of living |
|
| Restrictions in social relations |
|
| Dependence on others |
| Self-care strategies for managing in everyday life | Preserving the present state of health |
|
| Pacing and controlling |
|
| Striving for a positive attitude |