List of the verified oldest people

List of the Verified Oldest People is a compilation of individuals whose ages have been validated and who have reached the extreme limits of human lifespan. This list is maintained by various gerontology research groups, including the Gerontology Research Group (GRG) and the International Database on Longevity (IDL), which verify and update records of supercentenarians (people who have reached the age of 110 years or more). The verification process involves checking birth records, census data, and other documents to confirm the ages claimed. This list is significant not only for its human interest but also for its contributions to the fields of gerontology, demography, and the study of human longevity.

Criteria for Inclusion

To be included in the list, individuals must have their ages thoroughly verified by an authoritative body such as the GRG or IDL. The criteria include:

• Documented proof of date of birth
• Consistent records throughout the person's life
• Verification by a third-party organization specializing in age validation

Notable Individuals

Among the most notable individuals on the list are:

• Jeanne Calment, from France, who lived to be 122 years and 164 days old, is recognized as the oldest person ever whose age has been verified.
• Sarah Knauss, from the United States, who lived to be 119 years and 97 days old.
• Kane Tanaka, from Japan, who lived to be 119 years and 107 days old.
• Jiroemon Kimura, also from Japan, who is the oldest verified male ever, having lived to be 116 years and 54 days old.

Significance

The list of the verified oldest people provides valuable data for researchers studying the genetics of aging, the limits of human lifespan, and the factors contributing to extreme longevity. It also raises questions about the potential for extending human life and the ethical, social, and medical implications of doing so.

Challenges in Verification

The verification of supercentenarians' ages presents challenges, especially for individuals born in times or places with poor record-keeping. In some cases, claims of extreme age cannot be fully verified due to the lack of birth certificates or consistent documentation.

Future Directions

As record-keeping and scientific methods of age verification improve, the list of verified oldest people is expected to grow in accuracy and detail. This ongoing research contributes to our understanding of aging and informs public health strategies aimed at improving the quality of life for the elderly.