The Unrivaled Record of Jeanne Calment
For over two decades, the record for the oldest person has belonged to Jeanne Calment, a Frenchwoman who died in 1997. Her lifespan of 122 years and 164 days has been meticulously documented and verified by organizations like the Gerontology Research Group and Guinness World Records. A colorful figure, Calment famously met Vincent van Gogh as a young girl, outlived her daughter and grandson, and maintained her sharp wit well into her final years.
Challenges to Calment's Age
In 2018, Russian researchers controversially challenged the validity of Calment's age, suggesting her daughter had assumed her identity to avoid inheritance taxes. However, the demographers who originally verified her age and a panel of French specialists stood by their original findings, citing extensive documentation that supported her identity. Her case highlights the rigorous process and constant scrutiny involved in verifying the age of supercentenarians.
Understanding the Practical Limit of Human Lifespan
Scientific debate continues over whether there is a fixed biological limit to the human lifespan. While life expectancy has risen dramatically over the past century due to public health advancements, the maximum age humans can reach has seen much slower progress. Some researchers believe there is a practical limit to how long humans can live, with some statistical models predicting an upper boundary that could be broken this century, but likely not by much more than a decade beyond Calment's record. Other studies suggest the limit may be around 120 years, though certain biological factors could potentially extend it.
The Difference Between Life Expectancy and Lifespan
It is important to distinguish between life expectancy and maximum lifespan. Life expectancy is the average number of years a person can expect to live, based on birth year and location. It has risen significantly over time. Maximum lifespan, however, refers to the absolute greatest age a human can reach. The fact that the maximum age of death has plateaued since Calment's passing suggests that while we are getting better at helping more people live longer, we are not necessarily pushing the extreme upper limit of human potential any further, at least for now.
Who is the Oldest Person Living Today?
As of late 2025, the title of the oldest living person verified by a reputable body like the Gerontology Research Group is held by Ethel Caterham of the United Kingdom. Born in August 1909, she is well over 116 years old. While this is an incredible feat, it is still below the 120-year benchmark that has only been verifiably surpassed by Jeanne Calment.
Key Factors Contributing to Exceptional Longevity
While genetics play a role, research shows that many factors contribute to a person's ability to live an exceptionally long life. Supercentenarians often share certain characteristics and habits, some of which are surprisingly simple and accessible to everyone.
- Healthy Diet: Eating a diet rich in plant-based foods, such as the Mediterranean diet, has been linked to a reduced risk of death from any cause. This includes an abundance of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and legumes.
- Regular Exercise: Staying physically active, even with moderate activities like walking, can strengthen the heart, improve blood vessel health, and lower the risk of chronic diseases.
- Positive Mindset: Studies suggest that a positive outlook and optimism are linked to a longer lifespan and better emotional health in older age.
- Strong Social Connections: High-frequency social activity is correlated with a significantly longer survival rate. Maintaining relationships with family and friends can improve both mental and physical health.
- Resilience and Adaptability: Many supercentenarians have lived through significant historical events, suggesting an ability to adapt and persevere through life's challenges.
Strategies for a Healthy and Long Life
- Prioritize Quality Sleep: Aim for 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep per night. Inadequate sleep is linked to numerous chronic health problems affecting the heart, brain, and immune system.
- Stay Hydrated: A study of over 11,000 adults found that staying well-hydrated is linked to a healthier life and a reduced risk of chronic conditions.
- Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol: Smoking is a proven factor in shortening lifespans, while excessive alcohol use can lead to liver damage and other health issues. Moderation is key, but drinking less or not at all is even better for your health.
- Manage Stress Effectively: Chronic stress can negatively impact health. Activities like meditation, spending time in nature, and social engagement can help mitigate stress.
- Maintain Brain Health: Engage in mentally stimulating activities like puzzles, learning a new language, or reading. As seen in the case of some supercentenarians who stayed mentally sharp, this can contribute to overall well-being.
Comparing Notable Supercentenarians
| Feature | Jeanne Calment (Oldest Ever) | Ethel Caterham (Oldest Living) |
|---|---|---|
| Record Status | Oldest verified person ever | Oldest verified living person (as of late 2025) |
| Age Reached | 122 years, 164 days (deceased) | 116+ years (living) |
| Verification | Verified by Gerontology Research Group | Verified by Gerontology Research Group |
| Country | France | United Kingdom |
| Interesting Fact | Met Vincent van Gogh as a young girl | Survived COVID-19 at 110 |
The Longevity Landscape: What's Next?
While the answer to 'is there anyone living over 120 years old' remains a definitive no for the present, research continues to push the boundaries of our understanding of aging. A convergence of genetics, advanced healthcare, and lifestyle factors has led to more people than ever living past 100, though exceeding the 120-year mark remains a statistical rarity. The ultimate human lifespan may still have a practical, if not absolute, limit. The story of Jeanne Calment stands as a testament to the extraordinary possibilities of human longevity, a benchmark that future generations may or may not surpass. The best we can do is focus on maximizing our 'healthspan'—the period of life spent in good health—by adopting proven healthy habits. You can learn more about research into exceptional longevity at the National Institute on Aging: National Institute on Aging: Longevity Research.
Conclusion
In summary, the answer to the question, is there anyone living over 120 years old, is no. The record held by Jeanne Calment at 122 remains unbroken. While modern medicine has helped more people live longer, healthier lives on average, the achievement of extreme supercentenarian age is a complex phenomenon driven by a rare combination of genetics, chance, and healthy living. For most people, focusing on a healthy diet, exercise, and strong social bonds is the most reliable path to a long and fulfilling life.
