Some falls are simple accidents caused by hazardous environmental conditions.
Some falls can be prevented by performing a safety inspection of the environment, and by making minor changes. Bathroom handrails, nonskid bath mats and grab bars are extremely valuable to older adults since many falls occur in the bathroom. Repeated falls may be a sign of an underlying health problem or may be due to the cumulative effects of many small factors. Certain medications , heart irregularities, nerve problems, muscle weakness or balance problems may be involved. Foot health problems and poor footwear often contribute to falls.