Stress may increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease in older adults, according to a new study.

Researchers at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Health System found that older men and women who suffer from higher levels of stress are twice as likely to experience cognitive impairment, a precursor to the memory-robbing brain disorder, according to Science World Report.

"Our study provides strong evidence that perceived stress increases the likelihood that an older person will develop [amnestic mild cognitive impairment],” said lead researcher Dr. Richard Lipton, in a news release. "Fortunately, perceived stress is a modifiable risk factor for cognitive impairment, making it a potential target for treatment."

The findings, published in the journal Alzheimer's Disease and Associated Disorders, are based an analysis of 507 adults 70 and older who were enrolled in the Einstein Aging Study in Bronx County, NY.

Participants' stress levels were evaluated on a standard test and tracked for mild cognitive impairment. The results showed those with the highest stress levels were at greatest risk for cognitive impairments.

"Perceived stress reflects the daily hassles we all experience, as well as the way we appraise and cope with these events," concluded co-author Mindy Katz in a statement. "Perceived stress can be altered by mindfulness-based stress reduction, cognitive-behavioral therapies, and stress-reducing drugs. These interventions may postpone or even prevent an individual's cognitive decline."