Vulnerable adult

A person who is 18 years or over and who is or may be in need of, community care or health care services by reason of mental or other disability or illness; and who is or may be unable to take care of him or herself, or unable to protect him or herself against significant harm or exploitation. Also previously known as adult at risk. These terms have been replaced by adult experiencing, or at risk of abuse or neglect (see Care and Support Statutory Guidance 2014).