How old is the oldest human? The incredible story of Jeanne Calment

Oct 20, 2025 2 min read •

longevity senior care Healthy Aging

The verifiable record for the longest human lifespan belongs to Jeanne Calment of France, who died at the age of 122 years and 164 days. In exploring the question, “How old is the oldest human?”, we delve into the story of this extraordinary woman and the factors that contributed to her remarkable longevity.

Quick Summary

Jeanne Calment of France holds the record for the oldest verified human, living to 122 years and 164 days. Her case offers insights into human longevity.

Key Points

Longest Documented Lifespan: The oldest verified human was Jeanne Calment of France, who lived to be 122 years and 164 days old.
A Long-Lived Life Story: Born in 1875, Calment's life spanned three centuries and included an encounter with artist Vincent van Gogh.
Complex Longevity Factors: Her lifestyle, including smoking and enjoying chocolate, suggests stress management and attitude may be important alongside diet and exercise.
Science of Supercentenarians: Research into people like Calment shows genetics, lifestyle, and environment contribute to extreme longevity.
Genetics vs. Lifestyle: While genes play a role, lifestyle factors like diet, physical activity, and social connections are influential in healthy aging.
A Natural Ceiling on Lifespan: Calment's record suggests a possible limit to the maximum human lifespan, even as average life expectancy rises.

The Record Holder: Jeanne Calment's Story

Jeanne Louise Calment, born in Arles, France, in 1875, holds the record for the longest human lifespan, living to 122 years and 164 days before her death in 1997. Her age was officially validated by researchers.

A Life That Spanned Eras

Calment met artist Vincent van Gogh and maintained independence, taking up fencing at 85 and cycling until 100. Her cognitive abilities also interested scientists. Her case highlights the complex factors in aging.

A Not-So-Strict Lifestyle

Calment enjoyed chocolate, wine, olive oil, and smoked for nearly a century before quitting at 117. Her relaxed approach may have contributed to her longevity.

The Anatomy of Longevity: What Does Science Say?

Studying supercentenarians like Calment provides insight into aging. Longevity involves both genetics and lifestyle.

Key Lifestyle Factors for Longevity

Diet and Nutrition: Diets in long-lived populations often include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats.
Physical Activity: Regular, moderate activity is common.
Social Connections: Strong social ties and community involvement are linked to longer lives.
Stress Management: Effective stress management is crucial.
Sense of Purpose: Having a strong purpose can contribute to a longer lifespan.

Other Notable Supercentenarians

While Calment holds the record, others have achieved remarkable longevity. The oldest living person changes over time.


Record Holder	Age	Gender	Birth/Death	Verification	Country
Jeanne Calment	122 years, 164 days	Female	1875–1997	Gerontology Research Group (GRG)	France
Kane Tanaka	119 years, 107 days	Female	1903–2022	GRG	Japan
Sarah Knauss	119 years, 97 days	Female	1880–1999	GRG	United States
Lucile Randon	118 years, 340 days	Female	1904–2023	GRG	France
Jiroemon Kimura	116 years, 54 days	Male	1897–2013	GRG	Japan

Can We All Live to 122?

Average life expectancy has increased due to advancements, but the maximum lifespan appears to have limits. No one has verifiably lived longer than Calment. While genetics play a role, lifestyle significantly impacts healthy aging. Focusing on proven {Link: healthy aging habits https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2016/06/can-you-lengthen-your-life)} is beneficial for a longer, healthier life.

Conclusion

Jeanne Calment holds the record for the oldest verified human at 122 years and 164 days. Her life demonstrates how genetics and lifestyle can contribute to exceptional longevity. Research continues to improve our understanding of aging.

Frequently Asked Questions

Jeanne Calment of France lived to the age of 122 years and 164 days, holding the record for the longest documented human lifespan.

No, Jeanne Calment remains the only person whose age has been verified to surpass 120 years. While unverified claims exist, hers is the longest confirmed lifespan.

The oldest verified man ever was Jiroemon Kimura of Japan, who lived to be 116 years and 54 days old.

Jeanne Calment often credited her longevity to olive oil, a laid-back attitude, good humor, and a diet that included chocolate and port wine.

Researchers agree a combination of genetics and lifestyle is responsible for extreme longevity. Genetic factors can contribute, but environmental and behavioral factors like diet, exercise, and stress management are also crucial.

Jeanne Calment was born and died in Arles, France, residing in her hometown her entire life.

A Russian research team suggested in 2018 that Calment's record might be fraudulent, claiming her daughter Yvonne impersonated her. However, the Gerontology Research Group and other experts dismissed this theory, pointing to extensive documentation.

Supercentenarians are individuals who have reached the age of 110 or older. This group is of interest to researchers studying extreme longevity.

References

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding personal health decisions.