Human Flourishing as a Care Goal in Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Care

Human flourishing refers to living with meaning, connection, growth, and a sense of self even in the context of serious illness. This study examined how health care providers understand and support human flourishing among adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer and identified implications for advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) practice in palliative care. Using an adapted photovoice approach, we collected data from interviews, participant-generated photographs and written narratives, and group responses. Data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Participants described flourishing as an individualized process shaped by the young person’s identity, relationships, life circumstances, and care environment, rather than as constant happiness or an individual achievement. Participants described 4 interconnected areas of care through which APRNs could support human flourishing in AYA cancer care: caring for each AYA as a whole person; fostering meaning, connection, emotional safety, and joy through relationships and everyday experiences; coordinating flexible care across settings; and sustaining providers and teams in emotionally demanding work. The findings position human flourishing as a goal of palliative care. APRNs in palliative care are well positioned to recognize what matters to AYAs, support communication and relationships, coordinate care across settings, and contribute to care models that address developmental, psychosocial, and system-level needs.