Vulnerable adult abuse is a term used to describe any knowing, intentional, or negligent act by a caregiver or any other person that causes harm or a serious risk of harm to a vulnerable adult. A vulnerable adult can be anyone over age 18 who: Has a physical, mental or emotional disorder that makes it difficult for the person to care for themselves without help and to protect themselves from maltreatment.

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Maltreatment includes: Abuse, including physical, emotional and sexual abuse, use of restraints, involuntary seclusion or punishment. Neglect, including failure to provide necessary food, shelter, clothing, health care or supervision because of neglect by a caregiver or because the vulnerable adult cannot meet their own needs. Also, financial exploitation, including theft or withholding of money or property and/or use of money or property not for the vulnerable adult's benefit.)

This would include an individual who Is in a hospital, nursing home, transitional care unit, assisted living, housing with services, board and care, foster care or other licensed care facility, they may Receive services such as home care, day services, personal care assistance or other licensed services.