Recurrent falls from severe hypocalcemia resulting in nursing home placement: A preventable geriatric problem

Hypovitaminosis D - one cause of hypocalcemia - is common in older adults but appears underrecognized as a preventable cause of falls. The case reported in this article illustrates the need to increase awareness of vitamin D and calcium deficiency as potential and reversible causes of falls and functional impairment in the elderly. Administration of vitamin D and calcium in this patient helped to improve her function and mobility and to decrease her musculoskeletal complaints.