Falls are a major cause of injury and death in the elderly. They can be severe, including broken bones or head injuries.A fall in the elderly can also cause loss of independence and social isolation. Older people are more likely to fall because of a range of factors, from their age to the conditions they have.How old you are is a big factor in your risk of falling, so make sure to talk with your doctor about your medical history and ask what can make you more susceptible to a fall. Some health problems, like diabetes and arthritis, can make it harder to keep your balance.Your medications can also affect your ability to stay on your feet. The CDC recommends that you have your medications reviewed regularly.Other common medical conditions that can increase your risk of falling include diabetes, heart disease, and neurologic diseases. The CDC suggests you let your doctor know about any prescription medicines that you take, as well as over-the-counter medicine.A few simple steps can help reduce your risk of falling and make it easier to get up if you do fall. Some of these include wearing a wristband that indicates you have fallen, making sure you can call for help from a remote location, and getting an alarm system to alert someone if you need assistance.Many people who fall have a fear of falling, which may lead them to cut down on their activities.  medical alert systems for seniors This can cause them to become less active and weaker.