ABSTRACT
All people are vulnerable at some time in their life! This time usually occurs when a person
is dependent on others, such as at the beginning and end of their life. Other times at which
this vulnerability and dependency can occur is when a person is seriously unwell or ill. In
such circumstances, we can say that vulnerability can be a phase in a person’s life. It is at
these times that we, as professionals, need to plan and implement care so that the client’s
or patient’s health needs are met. However, we need to be mindful that, for specific groups
within our communities or societies, vulnerability is not a phase in life, but does in fact
extend throughout their life. These people have a severe or gross physical, mental, cognitive
or emotional impairment.
