What is the age definition of a disabled adult?

A disabled adult is specifically defined as a person who is 18 years old or older and has an incapacity that substantially limits their ability to perform daily activities or take care of themselves. This definition emphasizes adulthood beginning at the age of 18 while recognizing that individuals may face challenges that affect their capacity to function independently due to various disabilities.

Understanding this definition is crucial, especially in the context of elder abuse and neglect, as it allows for the identification of vulnerable populations who may require special attention or protection under the law. Other options do not address the correct age or the necessary component of incapacity, making them ineffective in defining a disabled adult. For example, individuals under 18 are classified as minors and do not have the same legal standing. Those who are 21 years or older fail to take into account younger adults who may be disabled, and simply being retired does not imply any form of disability. Thus, the correct answer encapsulates both the age and the necessity of incapacity to define a disabled adult accurately.