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.