"It's important to figure out who is at high risk and low risk, so that as we develop tools for prevention, we can try to target our prevention efforts at people with the highest risk for developing dementia," says Barnes, lead author of report published in the journal Neurology (Time.com).

"While there is no cure for Alzheimer's, the earlier patients are diagnosed, the sooner they can make lifestyle changes that may help slow the progression of the neurodegenerative disorder," Time.com said.

As may as 5.3 million Americans are living with Alzheimers reports the Alzheimer Association.