Discovering the Secrets of Longevity: Who is the Oldest Person Alive?
When we think about longevity, the first question that comes to our mind is who is the oldest person alive. We are fascinated by people who defy the odds and live to an incredibly old age. Over the years, there have been numerous claims of individuals living beyond 100 years of age. However, only a few have been authenticated by the Guinness World Records.
What Does Science Say About Longevity?
According to the World Health Organization, the global average life expectancy for men and women is around 73 years. However, studies have shown that there is no specific formula for a long life. According to Dr. Tom Perls, a longevity expert and director of the New England Centenarian Study at Boston University, genetics account for approximately 25% of the difference in lifespan.
The other 75% is a combination of lifestyle, environment, and chance. Studies have also shown that diet, exercise, and stress management play an essential role in living a long and healthy life.
The Oldest Person Alive: Jeanne Calment
The oldest person ever documented in history was Jeanne Calment, a French woman who lived for an incredible 122 years. Her longevity was attributed to her Mediterranean diet, which consisted of fish, olive oil, and vegetables. She also smoked until she was 117 and drank port wine daily.
Her longevity is still debated, with some claiming that her daughter Yvonne assumed her identity after her death. However, her age was authenticated by the Guinness World Records, with documentation that traced her birth back to 21 February 1875, and her death on 4 August 1997.
The Oldest Living Person Today
As of 2021, the title for the oldest person alive belongs to Kane Tanaka, a Japanese woman born on 2 January 1903. Ms. Tanaka attributes her longevity to education, family support, and her love for mathematics. She still competes in arithmetic competitions in Japan and recently broke the Guinness World Record for the oldest person to complete a 100-meter dash at the age of 105.
Conclusion
The quest for longevity is something that has fascinated humanity for centuries. While genetics play a significant role, science has shown that it is possible to live a long and healthy life by adopting a healthy lifestyle, avoiding unhealthy habits, and being environmentally aware. By studying and understanding the habits of individuals such as Jeanne Calment and Kane Tanaka, we can continue to explore the secrets of longevity.
