Unlocking the Secrets of Supercentenarians
Reaching the age of 116 is an extraordinary achievement, a feat of human biology and resilience that very few accomplish. A supercentenarian is any person who has reached the age of 110 or more. The stories of those who reach 116 and beyond offer unique glimpses into the lifestyle, mindset, and genetic makeup that might contribute to extreme longevity.
The Oldest Man Ever to Live for 116 Years: Jiroemon Kimura
Jiroemon Kimura of Japan holds the title of the oldest verified man ever recorded. He was born on April 19, 1897, and passed away on June 12, 2013, at the age of 116 years and 54 days. His life spanned across three centuries and several major historical events, including two World Wars. Throughout his long life, Kimura worked as a postman and as a farmer. When asked about his secret to longevity, he often cited a balanced diet of small portions, a positive outlook, and having a purpose in life. His story is a testament to the potential for human resilience, and he has been a source of inspiration for researchers studying aging.
The World's Oldest Living Person at 116: Ethel Caterham
Ethel Caterham of the United Kingdom currently holds the title of the world's oldest living person. Born on August 21, 1909, she celebrated her 116th birthday in 2025. Caterham has lived through profound historical changes, from the era of King Edward VII to the digital age. Her longevity is particularly notable, given that she even survived a bout of COVID-19 at the age of 111. Her philosophy for a long life, as reported by the Associated Press, is to "never argue with anyone." She credits a calm demeanor and a positive attitude for her success. The British monarchy has also recognized her milestone, with King Charles III sending her a birthday card.
Other Notable Individuals Who Lived to 116
While Jiroemon Kimura and Ethel Caterham are two prominent examples, many other individuals have also reached this remarkable age. Their stories further illustrate the diversity of experiences and backgrounds among supercentenarians.
- Inah Canabarro Lucas (Brazil): A nun and teacher, Inah Canabarro Lucas passed away on April 30, 2025, at 116 years old. She was briefly the world's oldest living person before her death.
- María Capovilla (Ecuador): Born in 1889, María Capovilla lived to be 116 years and 347 days old, passing away in 2006. She was active and in good health until the end of her life.
- Susannah Mushatt Jones (United States): A key figure in the civil rights movement, Susannah Mushatt Jones lived to be 116 years and 311 days old, passing away in 2016. She had a strong connection to her family and a love for bacon.
- Gertrude Weaver (United States): Born in 1898, Gertrude Weaver lived to 116 years and 276 days, passing in 2015. She credited her faith and kind treatment of others for her long life.
Comparison of 116-Year-Old Supercentenarians
| Name | Country | Birth Date | Death Date | Age at Death | Known For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jiroemon Kimura | Japan | Apr 19, 1897 | Jun 12, 2013 | 116 years, 54 days | Oldest verified man ever |
| Ethel Caterham | United Kingdom | Aug 21, 1909 | Living | 116 years, 33 days | Oldest living person |
| Inah Canabarro Lucas | Brazil | Jun 8, 1908 | Apr 30, 2025 | 116 years, 326 days | Oldest living person (2025) |
| María Capovilla | Ecuador | Sep 14, 1889 | Aug 27, 2006 | 116 years, 347 days | Oldest living person (2006) |
| Susannah Mushatt Jones | United States | Jul 6, 1899 | May 12, 2016 | 116 years, 311 days | Activist, oldest American (2015) |
The Science of Extreme Longevity
Scientists continue to study supercentenarians like Ethel Caterham and Jiroemon Kimura to understand the factors behind their exceptional lifespan. A combination of genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors likely plays a crucial role.
- Genetics: Many studies suggest that genetics are a significant predictor of extreme longevity. A higher concentration of centenarians and supercentenarians within families indicates a heritable component. Researchers are studying the specific genes of these individuals for clues.
- Lifestyle: While not all supercentenarians follow the same path, common lifestyle traits often emerge. These include maintaining a healthy diet, staying physically and mentally active, and managing stress effectively. Jiroemon Kimura's focus on moderate eating and a positive outlook aligns with this observation.
- Environment: A supportive social environment and access to healthcare can play a role in extending a person's life. Many supercentenarians are surrounded by loving family and are cared for in supportive environments, like Ethel Caterham in her care home.
- Mindset: A consistent theme among many long-lived individuals is their positive attitude toward life. Ethel Caterham's reported secret of 'never arguing' points to the importance of psychological well-being and stress reduction.
Can We Live to 116? Insights from the Longest Lives
Understanding who lived for 116 years allows us to analyze the common threads among these outliers. While extreme longevity is influenced by factors beyond our control, such as genetics, the stories of people like Ethel Caterham and Jiroemon Kimura provide valuable lessons in healthy aging. Their lives remind us of the power of a positive mindset, moderation, and a robust social network. By adopting some of these principles, we can strive for healthier, longer lives, even if we don't reach supercentenarian status. Learning about these remarkable individuals can inspire everyone to prioritize their well-being and approach old age with optimism.
For more information on the world's oldest people and record-holders, see the official list from Guinness World Records.
Conclusion: A Long Life is About More Than Just Years
The narratives of those who lived for 116 years demonstrate that reaching an advanced age is not simply about avoiding illness, but about cultivating a certain approach to life. Their stories emphasize the importance of mental fortitude, adaptability, and an appreciation for the simple things. Whether it’s Jiroemon Kimura's balanced diet and positive outlook or Ethel Caterham's avoidance of arguments, their examples show us that a long life is a mosaic of good habits, good genes, and a healthy dose of good fortune. As we continue to learn from these incredible individuals, the pursuit of healthy aging remains a cornerstone of modern science and human aspiration.
