Unraveling the Mystery: How Old is the Oldest Person in the World?
Have you ever wondered how long a human can live? The human lifespan is constantly increasing due to advancements in medicine, technology, and living conditions. With that said, what is the age of the oldest person alive? Let’s delve into the mystery and discover the answer.
The Oldest Person Ever Recorded
According to the Guinness World Records, the oldest person ever recorded was Jeanne Calment from France, who lived to be 122 years and 164 days old. She was born in 1875 and died in 1997. Her longevity was attributed to her active lifestyle, a diet rich in olive oil, and her love for chocolate.
Current Oldest Person Alive
As of 2021, the oldest person alive is Kane Tanaka from Japan, who was born on January 2, 1903. She is currently 118 years old and holds the Guinness World Record for the oldest verified female living person. Tanaka attributes her longevity to exercise, studying math, and playing board games.
Factors Contributing to Longevity
It is a natural curiosity to wonder how some people can live so long. The truth is, genetics plays a role in longevity. However, other factors such as lifestyle and environment also have a significant impact.
Research has shown that individuals who maintain a healthy lifestyle, exercise regularly, and consume a balanced diet can increase their lifespan. Additionally, living in an environment with access to healthcare and low levels of pollution can also contribute to a longer life.
The Future of Longevity
Scientific advancements, such as stem cell research, and anti-aging drugs have raised hopes of extending the average human lifespan. Famed geneticist George Church predicts that we are on the cusp of being able to extend human lifespans to 150 years. However, many ethical questions arise from this technology and still require further consideration.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the age of the oldest person alive is constantly changing as humans continue to break records. While genetics plays a role, the factors within our control, such as lifestyle and environment, also play a significant role. With advancements in science, we might be able to extend human lifespan even further, but we must also address the ethical concerns surrounding it.
