Notable supercentenarians who reached 115
Reaching the age of 115 is an extraordinary milestone, accomplished by only a small fraction of a percent of centenarians. The Gerontology Research Group and Guinness World Records meticulously verify these claims, ensuring accurate records of human longevity. Many of these remarkable individuals have shared insights into their long lives, with factors often including healthy lifestyles, strong social connections, and a positive outlook.
Among the list of those who lived to 115 are several notable figures who garnered public attention. For instance, Elizabeth Francis, the oldest person in the United States at the time of her death in October 2024, passed away at 115 years and 89 days old. Her legacy includes a focus on eating fresh foods from her garden and maintaining her faith. Another was Bessie Hendricks, an Iowa resident who died in January 2023 at 115 years and 57 days old, having lived through two world wars and two dozen presidential administrations. These individuals represent a small but growing group of supercentenarians.
Living supercentenarians who were 115
As of September 2025, there are still a handful of people who have reached the 115-year milestone and are currently alive, a testament to the continued increase in extreme longevity. The title of the world's oldest living person is a dynamic one, as record holders change upon verification by organizations like LongeviQuest. These individuals often become sources of fascination and inspiration, offering their own perspectives on how they reached such a milestone. Their stories are a mix of genetics, luck, and lifestyle factors, illustrating that there's no single secret to a long life.
Male vs. female supercentenarians at age 115
Data from longevity researchers consistently shows a gender imbalance among supercentenarians, with women significantly outnumbering men. The list of those reaching 115 is no exception. This phenomenon has prompted extensive research into genetic and biological differences between the sexes that may contribute to longevity. Studies have explored factors like hormonal differences and the varying impact of certain diseases, though no single definitive reason has been identified.
Why women outlive men at extreme ages
Several theories attempt to explain the gender longevity gap among supercentenarians. Biological and behavioral factors are both believed to play a role. Women tend to have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease earlier in life, and studies suggest they might possess a stronger immune response, which helps fight off infections. Furthermore, statistically, men are more likely to engage in high-risk behaviors throughout their lives, although these differences are becoming less pronounced in younger generations. The stories of female supercentenarians who lived to be 115 are therefore far more common than those of their male counterparts.
Comparison of notable 115-year-old supercentenarians
| Feature | Elizabeth Francis (USA) | Christian Mortensen (Denmark/USA) | Hester Ford (USA) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age Reached | 115 years, 89 days | 115 years, 252 days | 115 or 116 years |
| Birthplace | Louisiana, USA | Denmark | South Carolina, USA |
| Country of Death | USA | USA | USA |
| Longevity Secret | Eating fresh garden food, faith | Unknown, but resided in care facility | Calm, cheerful outlook |
| Claim to Fame | Oldest American at time of death | Oldest verified man for many years | Oldest American at time of death |
The rarity of living to 115
The number of people who have reached 115 remains very small. The Gerontology Research Group (GRG) carefully documents and verifies the lifespans of supercentenarians through a rigorous process of checking birth records and other documentation. The records show that the achievement of living to 115 is an exclusive club, with far fewer members than the centenarian group. The reasons behind such extreme longevity are still not fully understood, but researchers often point to a combination of genetics, lifestyle, and environment.
Researchers continue to study these supercentenarians to gain a better understanding of the aging process. By analyzing their DNA, health history, and life experiences, scientists hope to uncover the keys to extending healthy lifespans for the broader population. Individuals who lived to be 115, such as Elizabeth Francis and Christian Mortensen, provide valuable data for these studies, even after their passing. The continuous validation and documentation efforts by organizations like the GRG ensure that the legacy of these long-lived individuals is preserved for scientific and historical purposes.
Conclusion
The question, "Who lived to be 115?", leads to an exclusive list of verified supercentenarians from around the world. These remarkable individuals, predominantly women, have defied average life expectancies and provided valuable data for longevity research. From the well-known stories of those who recently held the title of oldest American, like Elizabeth Francis, to historical male record-holders such as Christian Mortensen, each individual's life offers a glimpse into the factors that contribute to extreme old age. As scientific verification continues and more people live longer, the list of those reaching 115 will undoubtedly grow, but it will always represent an extraordinary and rare achievement in human history.
Visit the Gerontology Research Group for up-to-date lists of supercentenarians.
