5 Tips for Living with Parkinson's 3 Fall-proof your home. Falls are common for many people who have Parkinson's. To avoid tumbles, declutter your living space from trip hazards, install railings in stairways and doorways, and keep rooms well-lit. 4 Be smart about sleep. A good night's sleep is essential to healing and restoring the brain. Adults need about seven to nine hours of shut-eye per night, so avoid caffeine late in the day to help you fall asleep. 1 Exercise. Many people with Parkinson's disease have been able to reduce their medication by strengthening muscles through proper exercise. Make sure to consult your doctor before starting any physical activity program. 2 Plan for the future. Because of the progressive nature of Parkinson's, it is important to be prepared for any twists and turns along your journey. Designate friends or loved ones to handle your finances and medical care should you be unable to do so in the future. 5 Make the most of every day. It is easy to view Parkinson's as a life sentence, but many people can live long, fulfilling lives with the condition. Because every person experiences Parkinson's differently, talk to your doctor about a management plan that's right for you. GETTY IMAGES STAY in the know on current Parkinson's research at parkinson.org/research FdHDSP20135_Salina.indd 7 7 1/23/20 4:53 PMhttp://www.parkinson.org/research