It depends on the adult: some adults even old, retain all their autonomy and therefore competent for the counseling process. However, if for some reason (mental or physical disabilities; serious illness...) the autonomy is affected, you shall follow the proxy counseling. Anyone could play this role at a certain level: their medical doctors, their relatives, lawyers. In case of temporary disability, a competent adult shall continue the process once he feels better. I hope this helps.