What designation applies to an adult, aged 18 or older, who cannot be located?

The designation "missing adult" specifically refers to an individual aged 18 or older who cannot be located. This term is used within law enforcement and public safety contexts to categorize adults who have disappeared under circumstances that are not immediately understood or that raise concerns for their safety.

Choosing this designation indicates recognition of the adult's status as missing, which can prompt law enforcement agencies to take appropriate actions to locate the individual, such as initiating searches, activating alerts, or conducting investigations. It is essential to categorize cases accurately to ensure that the needed resources are allocated efficiently and to respond appropriately to any potential risks associated with the individual’s disappearance.

The other options may not accurately represent the situation for adults. For instance, "endangered adult" is often used when the missing adult may be in a vulnerable state (like having health issues), while "missing person" is a more general term that can apply to individuals of any age. "Lost individual" is not a formal designation used in official reports or law enforcement practices. These distinctions are important for proper classification and response by authorities.