IFM | Brain Health and Chronic Conditions: Lifelong Connections

In this episode of Inside Family Medicine, we hear from Dr. Ariel Cole, a family and geriatric medicine physician and fellowship/residency leader at AdventHealth Orlando, about the family physician's role in cognitive aging, Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. Dr. Cole describes her experience caring for patients across the cognitive decline spectrum and emphasizes prevention. The conversation covers barriers like time and system awareness, strategies for sensitive discussions about shame and independence, and leveraging community resources such as Area Agencies on Aging, Meals on Wheels, caregiver supports, adult day programs, the Alzheimer's Association, and referrals to neurology or geriatrics.

Topics By Timestamp

00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro

00:47 Dr. Cole's Background

01:15 Prevention and Risk Factors

02:58 Screening Tools in Primary Care

03:50 Barriers and Team Based Care

04:58 Talking About Cognitive Decline

06:13 Community Resources and Referrals

07:34 Assessing Home Support Needs

08:27 Key Takeaways for Clinicians

09:21 Wrap Up and Resources

09:50 Disclaimers and Copyright

Additional Resources

• Brain Health: Clinical Guidance and Practice Resources | AAFP 

• Dementia | Family Doctor 

• Alzheimer's Disease | Family Doctor 

• Evaluation of Suspected Dementia | AAFP 

• Blood Biomarkers in Alzheimer's Dementia FREE CME | AAFP

• Utilization of the AAFP Cognitive Care Kit FREE CME | AAFP

Disclaimer: Copyright 2026. AAFP. The views presented in this broadcast are the speaker's own and do not represent those of AAFP.  The information presented is for general, educational, or entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal, health, financial, or other advice.  AAFP makes no representation as to the accuracy or completeness of the information and is not responsible for results that may arise from its use.  Consult an appropriate professional concerning your specific situation and respective governing bodies for applicable laws. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by AAFP unless specifically stated otherwise.  AAFP and the AAFP logo are registered trademarks of American Academy of Family Physicians.