The World's Centenarian Population is Growing
Globally, the centenarian population is one of the fastest-growing age groups. According to UN estimates, the number of people aged 100 and over is projected to multiply significantly, reaching millions by 2050. This demographic shift is largely attributed to advancements in public health, nutrition, and medical science, which have contributed to an increase in overall life expectancy. While the largest absolute number of centenarians may reside in countries with large populations, like the United States, places like Japan and Italy have a higher prevalence relative to their total population.
Meet Some of the World's Oldest People
As of September 2025, the oldest living person whose age has been validated is Ethel Caterham from the United Kingdom, born in 1909. Ethel has shared that her secret to a long life includes avoiding arguments and maintaining a positive outlook. Similarly, the oldest living man whose age has been verified is João Marinho Neto from Brazil, born in 1912. In addition to these record holders, many other supercentenarians (people aged 110 or older) and notable centenarians are alive today, with their ages validated by organizations like the Gerontology Research Group.
Famous People Who Lived Beyond 100
- Jeanne Calment: The longest-documented human lifespan belongs to this French woman, who lived to be 122 years and 164 days old.
- Leila Denmark: An American pediatrician who lived to 114 and helped develop the pertussis vaccine.
- Kirk Douglas: The renowned American actor lived to the age of 103, enjoying a long career in Hollywood.
- Beverly Cleary: The beloved American author of children's books lived to be 104.
Key Longevity Factors Beyond Genetics
While genetics can play a role, accounting for about 20-30% of a person's lifespan, lifestyle and environmental factors are far more influential, especially in earlier life. Researchers have studied areas around the globe with high concentrations of centenarians, known as "Blue Zones," to understand common contributing factors. These areas include Okinawa (Japan), Sardinia (Italy), and Nicoya (Costa Rica). Residents often share similar health habits, including a plant-based diet, regular physical activity, and strong social ties.
The Longevity Lifestyle: Habits of the Healthiest Elders
Extensive research has identified several key habits consistently linked with increased longevity and healthspan. These simple yet powerful choices can significantly impact one's quality of life into old age.
- Healthy Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts, often resembling the Mediterranean diet, is correlated with a lower risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and dementia.
- Regular Exercise: Engaging in at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity daily improves cardiovascular health, manages weight, boosts mood, and enhances sleep quality.
- Stress Management: Chronic stress contributes to inflammation and other health problems. Techniques for managing stress, like Ethel Caterham's approach, are key.
- Positive Social Relationships: Strong social connections and avoiding isolation are repeatedly cited as crucial for both mental and physical health in older adults.
- Purposeful Living: Many long-lived individuals feel a strong sense of purpose. This may be related to work, hobbies, or family, and it drives engagement with the world.
Demographics of Centenarians
For those curious about who is alive after 100 years, examining global demographics provides valuable context. The vast majority of centenarians are female, though projections show the gender gap may slowly narrow over time.
| Country | Estimated Centenarians (2020) | Prevalence per 10,000 | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 97,000 | ~3 | Highest absolute number |
| Japan | 80,000 | ~6 | Highest prevalence rate |
| Italy | 25,000 | ~3 | High prevalence in Europe |
| China | 48,000 | <1 | Lower prevalence but rising fast |
Note: Prevalence figures can vary depending on the year and source.
Healthy Aging for the Future
Research continues to identify more factors that contribute to healthy longevity, such as medical genetics, quality healthcare access, and environmental conditions. For more in-depth data on centenarian populations, sources like the Boston University Medical Campus provide extensive statistics on the characteristics of these exceptional individuals. While the journey to 100+ years is a complex mix of chance, biology, and personal choices, the evidence suggests that actively managing one's health and lifestyle is the most powerful tool we have.
Conclusion: A Century of Possibility
As the population of those living beyond 100 continues to grow, understanding the factors behind their longevity becomes more important. For anyone wondering who is alive after 100 years, the answer lies not just in a list of names but in the patterns of healthful living, social connection, and mental resilience. By adopting some of the habits practiced in the Blue Zones and by celebrated centenarians, more people can aim for a longer, healthier, and more vibrant life.
