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Togetherness in Couples Living With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: An Interpretive Interview Study
Louise Muxoll Gronhaug1,2, Ingeborg Farver-Vestergaard1,2, Yoon Frederiksen3,4
1Department of Medicine, Lillebaelt Hospital, University Hospital of Southern Denmark, Vejle, Denmark.
Journal of Clinical Nursing
|July 4, 2026
Summary
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) significantly alters couplehood and intimacy, impacting daily life and well-being. Open communication and shared pacing can foster connection and renewal for both partners.
Area of Science:
- Health Psychology
- Social Sciences
- Qualitative Research
Background:
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) presents significant challenges to individuals and their partners.
- Illness-related changes profoundly affect shared everyday life and intimacy within couples.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the lived experiences of individuals with COPD and their partners regarding changes in shared life and intimacy.
- To understand how these changes impact overall well-being within the couple.
Main Methods:
- Interpretive phenomenological study employing in-depth telephone interviews.
- Analysis utilized reflexive thematic analysis informed by hermeneutic phenomenology.
- Ten individuals with COPD and five partners participated.
Main Results:
- A central theme emerged: 'Togetherness in light and darkness-transformation of couplehood when living with COPD'.
- Key themes included 'Living in sync and out of step' (breathlessness impacting daily life and intimacy), 'Holding on and holding back' (emotional presence vs. protective restraint), and 'Becoming another we' (seeking meaning amidst loss).
Conclusions:
- COPD transforms couplehood and intimacy, posing risks of disconnection but also opportunities for renewal.
- Breathlessness disrupts shared life and identity; however, adapting pace and emotional presence enhances togetherness and well-being.
- Findings can guide healthcare professionals in couple-centered care, addressing overlooked relationship and intimacy changes.
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