“Struggling for independence”: The meaning of being an oldest old man in a rural area. Interpretation of oldest old men's narrations

Figures & data

Table I Example of the data analysis process.

Meaning unit	Condensed meaning unit	Sub theme	Theme
But I do think about it … maybe it has been for the best if I have died. They can do much more if they want … if they haven't had me to worry about, me who sit here alone …	Best if I have died. Not had someone to worry about, when alone.	Fearing becoming a burden	Feeling insufficiency in everyday life
I can die any minute now. The home nursing care can find me any day.	Can die any minute now.	Feeling insecure	Feeling insufficiency in everyday life
Of course it gets a little lonely, but then I take some trips to the nursing home … even if it's nothing special. Then I can stay there and drink coffee with them. That is so nice.	It gets lonely, but can get out and meet others. That's nice.	Experience new possibilities	Finding hope in life