The World of Supercentenarians: Beyond the Century Mark
The ability to live past 110 years, known as achieving supercentenarian status, is exceptionally rare. Demographers and gerontologists meticulously verify these extraordinary lifespans to distinguish genuine record-holders from unsubstantiated claims. The meticulous process involves cross-referencing multiple historical documents, a challenge given that systematic verification for extreme longevity began only in the 1950s. Organizations like the Gerontology Research Group (GRG) maintain publicly accessible databases that track validated cases, confirming that many people have successfully lived to the age of 116.
Documented Individuals Who Lived to 116
The list of verified 116-year-olds includes both men and women from different parts of the globe, each with their own unique story. Among the most notable are:
- Jiroemon Kimura (116 years, 54 days): A Japanese man who, upon his death in 2013, held the record for the oldest verified man in history.
- Ethel Caterham (currently 116 years, 38+ days as of late 2025): The current oldest living person, a British woman born in 1909 who reached this milestone in 2025.
- Inah Canabarro Lucas (116 years, 326 days): A Brazilian nun who died in April 2025, briefly holding the title of world's oldest person.
- Tomiko Itooka (116 years, 220 days): A Japanese woman who passed away in late 2024, having previously been the oldest person in the world.
- Francisca Celsa dos Santos (116 years, 349 days): Another validated Brazilian supercentenarian who died in 2021.
The Elusive Secret to Extreme Longevity
While science has yet to find a single "silver bullet" for extreme longevity, researchers have identified several factors that are consistently linked to the supercentenarian lifestyle. These traits are a complex mix of genetics, environment, and personal habits.
Genetics certainly play a significant role. Studies on families with multiple centenarians suggest certain genetic variants, like the FOXO3 gene, are associated with extended lifespans by enhancing cellular repair and immune function. However, a long-lived ancestor is no guarantee of reaching a supercentenarian age, suggesting that other factors are just as important.
Environmental factors and lifestyle choices are also critical. Studies have shown that supercentenarians often exhibit habits such as maintaining strong social ties, practicing mental resilience, and engaging in regular, though not necessarily intense, physical activity. Diet is another frequently cited element, with many long-lived individuals favoring whole-food, plant-based diets like the one common in Okinawa, Japan. It is worth noting, however, that the personalities of supercentenarians are often described as pleasant, with a resilient and positive outlook.
Notable 116-Year-Olds: A Comparison
| Feature | Jiroemon Kimura (Japan) | Ethel Caterham (UK) | Inah Canabarro Lucas (Brazil) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age at Death/Current Age | 116 years, 54 days (Deceased) | 116 years, 38+ days (Living as of late 2025) | 116 years, 326 days (Deceased) |
| Record Title | Oldest verified man ever | Oldest verified person living | Briefly held oldest verified person living |
| Noteworthy Habit | Practiced small portion sizes and an active lifestyle | Cites a calm, agreeable demeanor and listens to advice | A nun, lived in a convent and attributed her life to God |
| Other Details | Worked at a post office until retirement, managed a farm | Worked as a governess in India as a young woman | Taught students history, geography, and math |
Future of Extreme Longevity
For decades, scientists have debated the biological limit of the human lifespan. Jeanne Calment, who lived to 122, remains the outlier, but studies of supercentenarians continue to challenge assumptions about aging. By examining the genetic makeup, lifestyle choices, and health histories of these individuals, researchers hope to uncover insights that could one day help the broader population extend their own health spans—the number of years lived in good health—rather than simply adding years to their lifespan. Projects like the New England Centenarian Study, which follows thousands of centenarians, show that advanced age does not have to mean a prolonged period of illness, and many supercentenarians live relatively healthy lives until close to the end.
Conclusion: The Remarkable Feat of Living to 116
Yes, people have lived to 116 and beyond. This is not a matter of speculation but a fact confirmed by diligent research and record-keeping from institutions dedicated to longevity science. The cases of individuals like Jiroemon Kimura, Ethel Caterham, and others who have reached this milestone offer profound insights. They are living proof that while a large portion of our lifespan is influenced by genetics, our daily actions, mental state, and social connections also play a powerful role. While the ultimate limits of human longevity remain a subject of scientific debate, the stories of those who have reached 116 provide invaluable lessons on the path toward a longer, healthier life for all. The ongoing research into these unique individuals' lives provides hope that understanding extreme longevity could contribute to a better quality of life for an aging global population..
