The unintentionally dropping onto the ground or lower level, not as a result of a major intrinsic event (such as a stroke) or overwhelming hazard.”[2] Other definitions are more inclusive and do not exclude "major intrinsic events" as a fall.[3] Such falls are clearly of accidental origin, which might include a large number of causes, such as slips, trips and over-balancing.
Falls are an important aspect of geriatric medicine.