Table 2.

Themes and subthemes following thematic analysis

Theme	Subtheme
1. Wasting or losing time	• Fear of losing touch • Breaking visiting promises, and feeling abandoned in the final days of life
2. Maintaining control, plans and routine	• Disrupted care plans and loss of control/autonomy • Exceptional visiting abilities or contact with residents • The key role of care workers, and the importance of good communication
3. Coping with loss, and a lack of support	• Lack of support for families during EoL care • Lack of support offered to those left behind