The World's Oldest Person: Jeanne Calment
In the history of verified human lifespans, no one has lived longer than Jeanne Calment of France. Born in 1875, she lived to be 122 years and 164 days old, passing away in 1997. Her story is a fascinating mix of robust genes and an active, if at times unconventional, lifestyle. She reportedly lived an independent life well into her later years, enjoying chocolate and wine. While her age has faced some scrutiny, a review of historical records by the Gerontology Research Group confirmed her status as the world's longest-living person.
Modern-Day Icons and Recent Centenarians
Reaching the century mark is an incredible feat, and several public figures have recently become centenarians, defying the odds and continuing to inspire. Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, for example, celebrated his 100th birthday in October 2024, living longer than any other president in U.S. history. His commitment to a healthy lifestyle and continued humanitarian work well into his nineties demonstrated a powerful link between purpose and longevity.
Another beloved centenarian was television pioneer Norman Lear, who passed away in December 2023 at the age of 101. He attributed his long, productive life to staying engaged and finding joy in his work, showcasing how a strong sense of purpose can be a powerful driver of healthy aging.
Hollywood's Longest-Living Stars
Hollywood has also seen its share of centenarians, with several actors and filmmakers enjoying extraordinary lifespans:
- Kirk Douglas (1916–2020): Lived to 103, remaining active and engaged in philanthropy after a major stroke in 1996.
- Olivia de Havilland (1916–2020): Lived to 104, a screen legend who attributed her longevity to a healthy diet and remaining active.
- Gloria Stuart (1910–2010): Lived to 100, famously playing the centenarian Rose in Titanic, a role she landed at age 87. She enjoyed a vibrant second career as an artist and was known for her positive outlook.
The Science of Longevity: Genes and Environment
While genetics undoubtedly plays a role, researchers agree it is only one piece of the puzzle. Studies of Blue Zones—areas with an unusually high concentration of centenarians, such as Okinawa, Japan, and Sardinia, Italy—have revealed common lifestyle factors that influence longevity. These include:
- Diet: Eating a mostly plant-based diet, low in processed foods, and practicing moderate eating habits (like the Okinawan practice of hara hachi bu, or eating until 80% full).
- Movement: Engaging in regular, low-intensity physical activity, like walking, gardening, and dancing, is a common trait.
- Community and Purpose: Maintaining strong social connections and having a sense of purpose (ikigai in Japanese) are linked to living a longer, more fulfilling life.
- Stress Management: The ability to effectively manage stress is another key factor. Blue Zone residents often build stress-relieving practices into their daily routines.
Lifestyle factors of centenarians vs. non-centenarians
To understand the difference between those who live to 100 and those who don't, research often compares health behaviors. A study in JAMA Network Open in 2024 highlighted specific factors that correlate with reaching the century mark.
| Factor | Centenarians | Non-Centenarians |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Activity | Often involves regular, low-intensity movement (e.g., walking, gardening). | May have inconsistent or less frequent exercise routines. |
| Diet | Primarily plant-based with fish, low in saturated fats and processed sugars. | Often consumes a standard Western diet, higher in processed foods. |
| Smoking | Low prevalence of smokers. | Higher prevalence of smokers, especially with a history of long-term use. |
| Social Engagement | Strong, lifelong community ties and family connections. | May experience greater social isolation in later life. |
| Sense of Purpose | Often maintains hobbies or meaningful work well into old age. | May have retired completely, losing a sense of direction or purpose. |
The Blue Zones: A Roadmap for Longevity
The Blue Zones project, led by author and researcher Dan Buettner, has illuminated the secrets of some of the world's longest-living communities. Beyond diet and exercise, these regions offer a holistic view of aging. The residents of Ikaria, Greece, for example, enjoy a relaxed pace of life and a strong sense of community, factors that are believed to reduce chronic stress. In Loma Linda, California, a large concentration of Seventh-day Adventists live longer than the average American, largely due to their adherence to a vegetarian diet, regular exercise, and a supportive religious community. By examining these regions, researchers are uncovering valuable, practical lessons that can be applied to promote healthy aging worldwide.
The Rise of Centenarians
The number of centenarians is increasing globally due to advancements in public health, nutrition, and medical care. The United Nations has projected that the number of centenarians worldwide could rise significantly in the coming decades. This demographic shift presents both opportunities and challenges for societies, including the need to rethink healthcare, social structures, and retirement models. As more people reach this milestone, our collective understanding of human longevity will continue to evolve.
Conclusion: Inspiration for a Longer, Healthier Life
From Jeanne Calment's singular record to the growing ranks of modern centenarians like Jimmy Carter, the stories of those who have made it to 100 years old are a testament to the power of resilience, positive habits, and a life of purpose. Their journeys show that while good genes are a starting point, our daily choices in diet, exercise, and social connection play a decisive role in shaping our long-term health and vitality. By studying these individuals and communities, we gain invaluable insights into not just how to live longer, but how to live better, well into our later years.
Visit the Gerontology Research Group website for more information on verified oldest people.
