Which scenario defines a vulnerable adult?

• A. A 25-year-old with intellectual disability requiring daily living assistance.
• B. A 60-year-old with no impairment.
• C. A 16-year-old with a disability.
• D. A 30-year-old with a chronic disease but independent.

Answer: (A)

A vulnerable adult is an adult who, due to a physical or mental impairment, disability, or chronic illness, cannot adequately care for themselves, protect themselves from harm, or manage essential daily tasks without assistance. In the described scenario, a 25-year-old with intellectual disability who requires daily living assistance clearly fits this definition because their impairment creates dependency and limits their ability to handle daily responsibilities independently.

The other scenarios don’t fit as well: a 60-year-old with no impairment can meet daily self-care independently, so they aren’t considered vulnerable. A 16-year-old is a minor, not an adult, so the term vulnerable adult doesn’t apply. A 30-year-old with a chronic disease but who remains independent can manage daily tasks and self-protection, so they don’t meet the vulnerability criteria.