Richard Simmons’ Death Certificate: The Fitness Guru Possibly Struggled With Sleep Before Death

Richard Simmons' death certificate was released a month after his tragic demise, and it sheds more light on his life and possible health struggles.

The LA County Medical Examiner's report confirmed the fitness guru's death hasbeen classified as an "accident" related to his bathroom slip. 

Although Richard Simmons' death has been classified as an "accident" related to his bathroom slip, the mystery surrounding what really caused the incident remains unsolved.

The medical examiner's report revealed that responders at the scene discovered multiple prescription medications like trazodone and zolpidem in his bathroom. The search also uncovered a "plastic bag with loose pink oblong pills (stamped B WL 25)."

These drugs were surprising because Simmons had no known significant medical issues besides gastrointestinal problems. But his toxicology report confirmed he had taken the medications before his death.

The list of drugs in his system included diphenhydramine (an antihistamine), trazodone (an antidepressant), and zolpidem (which is used to treat insomnia). This revelation seemingly showcased the hidden health battles Simmons endured during his life.

It was unclear if these drugs played any role in his death; however, the fitness influencer reportedly experienced dizziness before his bathroom fall. The incident occurred a day before his 76th birthday on July 12.

The medical examiner's report explained that Simmons' death was an accident due to a "ground level fall" that resulted in his passing from "blunt traumatic injuries." The contributing factor of his death was listed as cardiovascular disease.

The incident occurred at his Hollywood Hills mansion on the evening of July 11. Simmons reportedly "had an episode of dizziness after using the bathroom and collapsed on the floor." It was unclear if he struck his head, but he was unable to get up and spent several hours on the floor.

His caretaker eventually found him on July 12 "at approximately 0930 hours" and helped him get into bed. The report noted he was "alert and responsive at the time but had difficulty with mobility," adding:

"He spent the day in bed and was visited by his secretary, who stated that the decedent's speech seemed slurred. The decedent's caretaker stayed with him until approximately 2145-2200 hours and helped him take his medication before he went to sleep."

Per the medical examiner's report, Simmons assured his caretaker he would seek medical attention on July 13 and asked to sleep in later than usual before going to the hospital. Unfortunately, when his caretaker checked on him, she found him "unresponsive on the bedroom floor."

She reportedly called 911 and attempted to perform CPR before help arrived. Paramedics from the Los Angeles Fire Department Department Rescue Ambulance and officers from the Los Angeles Police Department Hollywood Division responded to her call.

The report described the state Simmons was found in, reading, "The decedent was observed in a supine position on the floor adjacent to his bed. Lividity blanched with hard pressure, and rigor mortis was present. Dehydration was seento his mouth."

"A brownish fluid was seen emanating from the decedent's mouth. Skin defects appearing consistent with abrasions were seen to his head, right hand, left elbow, and lower legs," adding that Simmons had skin discoloration consistent with contusions on multiple body parts.

Following Simmons' death in July, The Blast shared the reason behind his refusal of medical attention. His caretaker stressed that she offered to call medical services after his bathroom slip but was met with resistance because of his 76th birthday.

Simmons allegedly wished to spend the big day at home instead of going to the hospital. He convinced his caretaker to let him stay by vowing to visit the hospital the following day. Unfortunately, skipping medical attention resulted in his death.

While oblivious to the consequences of his wish, Simmons happily marked the age milestone with fans on Facebook. He took a walk down memory, recalling his most treasured birthday celebrations.

In his birthday message, Simmons revealed that while teaching fitness classes at his studio, people marked his birthdays with unique cakes. "One was a sheet cake airbrushed with my picture on it…one was a Barbie doll, and her dress was the cake," he recalled.

"It was my birthday when we taped Groovin in the House .…that was a three-dimensional three-foot cake in the shape of one of my Dalmatians … You know I cried," the wellness expert added.

Ahead of his 76th birthday, Simmons noted he would probably enjoy a vegetarian celebration by blowing out a candle on a zucchini. He also hoped to spend the day helping others.

Rest in peace, Richard Simmons.