As used in KRS 508.100 to 508.120, unless the context requires otherwise:

1. (1) "Abuse or neglect" means:

   1. (a) The infliction of: 1. Physical pain or injury, including ingestion or inhalation of a controlled substance; or 2. Mental injury; or
   2. (b) The deprivation of services by a person which are necessary to maintain the health and welfare of a person, or a situation in which an adult, living alone, is unable to provide or obtain for himself or herself the services which are necessary to maintain his or her health or welfare;
2. (2)
3. (3) "Controlled substance" has the same meaning as in KRS 218A.010; and "Physically helpless" and "mentally helpless" means a person who lacks substantial capacity to defend himself or herself or solicit protection from law enforcement agencies.

Effective: July 15, 2026

History: Amended 2026 Ky. Acts ch. 68, sec. 11, effective July 15, 2026. -- Created 1982 Ky. Acts ch. 168, sec. 4, effective July 15, 1982.