The woman often cited as the longest-lived person in recorded history was Jeanne Calment, who lived to 122 years and 164 days. Born in France in 1875 and dying in 1997, she became famous for her extraordinary lifespan and the unusual habits she said helped her stay healthy.
Some of her reported habits and lifestyle factors included:
- Staying active: Calment remained physically active well into old age. She reportedly enjoyed walking and later used a bicycle for many years.
- A relaxed attitude toward life: She was known for her humor and claimed that a calm outlook helped her avoid unnecessary stress.
- A Mediterranean-style diet: She ate foods common in southern France, including olive oil, fruits, and vegetables.
- Moderate indulgences: She famously enjoyed small amounts of foods such as chocolate and drank wine in moderation.
- Social engagement: She remained connected with her community and maintained a lively personality.
- Independence and adaptability: She continued living on her own for much of her later life and adjusted to changes as she aged.
Researchers believe extreme longevity usually comes from a combination of factors rather than a single habit, including genetics, environment, lifestyle, access to healthcare, and chance. While Calment’s habits are interesting, they do not guarantee a long life for everyone.
Her story is also sometimes discussed because extraordinary longevity claims are difficult to verify, and scientists continue to study records of supercentenarians to better understand the limits of human lifespan.
