The oldest person on record lived to be 122 years and 164 days old.
This remarkable feat was achieved by Jeanne Calment, a French woman whose life has been extensively documented and verified. Her exceptional longevity stands as a testament to the potential lifespan of a human being.
Jeanne Calment: A Case Study in Longevity
Jeanne Calment was born on February 21, 1875, and died on August 4, 1997. Her long life has made her a subject of considerable interest to gerontologists and researchers studying aging. Several factors may have contributed to her longevity, including:
- Genetics: While not definitively proven, genetics likely played a role in her lifespan.
- Lifestyle: Calment maintained an active lifestyle, cycling until she was 100 and living independently until shortly before her death.
- Diet: Her diet was relatively simple and included olive oil, which is associated with various health benefits.
- Positive Attitude: She was known for her sharp wit and positive outlook on life.
Verified Records and Supercentenarians
It's crucial to emphasize that Jeanne Calment's age is the longest documented and verified human lifespan. There have been claims of individuals living longer, but these claims lack the rigorous documentation required for verification.
Individuals who reach the age of 110 or older are known as "supercentenarians." Their existence demonstrates the possibility of exceptional longevity, although it remains a rare phenomenon. While women generally live longer than men, there are male supercentenarians as well. However, the record remains with Jeanne Calment for now.
