A vulnerable adult is a person aged 18 years or over who may be unable to take care of themselves; protect themselves from harm; or prevent themselves from being exploited.
An adult may be vulnerable because they:
- Have a physical disability;
- Have learning difficulties;
- Have mental health problems;
- Are old, frail or ill; or
- Are sometimes unable to take care of themselves or protect themselves without help.
A person may also be vulnerable because of a temporary illness or difficulty.
A vulnerable adult may have difficulty in making their wishes and feelings known and this may make them vulnerable to abuse. It may also mean that they are not able to make their own decisions or choices.
