Adult Social Care Glossary, v 0.6

(8)In this section—

“vulnerable adult” means a person aged 18 or over who may have difficulty understanding the purpose of an authorisation under section 42(1) or (2) [Authorisation of continued detention] or anything that occurs in connection with a decision whether to give such an authorisation (whether because of a mental disorder or for any other reason)

(10)In this section—

“vulnerable adult” means a person aged 18 or over whose ability to protect himself or herself from violence, abuse or neglect is significantly impaired through physical or mental disability or illness, through old age or otherwise

A person aged 18 or over who may be unable to take care of themselves, or protect themselves from harm or exploitation due to mental health problems, disability, sensory impairment, frailty or other conditions.

An adult who may need care and support because of their age, disability or illness, and may be unable to protect themselves from harm, neglect or abuse.