Exploring Changes in Family Functioning: A Qualitative Study of Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects not only patients' physical and psychological health but also their families' functioning. Despite the central role of families in providing care, particularly in cultures with strong family bonds, little is known about the specific changes that RA causes in family functioning. This study aimed to explore patients' experiences and perceptions of changes in family functioning associated with with RA.

This conventional content analysis study was performed on 19 participants who were purposively selected from Birjand and Kashmar cities in Iran from February 2025 to July 2025. Face-to-face, semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted to collect data. The interviews continued until no new experiential meanings emerged, indicating data saturation. The data were analyzed using the conventional content analysis approach of Graneheim and Lundman using MAXQDA version 2020.

Six main categories emerged, reflecting extensive changes in family functioning: 1) reduced functional independence in daily life activities, 2) compromised marital affairs, 3) limitations in parenting, 4) Imposing additional financial burden on the family, 5) restrictions in social activities, and 6) deprivation of psychological comfort within the family.

Patients reported that RA disrupts their family functioning. In contexts such as Iran, where families are deeply involved in caregiving, these challenges are intensified. The findings highlight the need for family centered interventions, psychosocial support, and health policies that address patient care and family well-being.