Jeanne Calment (France) – 122y, 164d

Jeanne Calment holds the record for the longest verified human lifespan. Born in Arles, France, in 1875, she lived through both World Wars and famously met Vincent van Gogh. Her extraordinary longevity has been studied extensively, with researchers noting her active lifestyle and composed temperament.

Kane Tanaka (Japan) – 119y, 107d

Kane Tanaka was recognised as the world’s oldest living person until her death in 2022. Born in Fukuoka, Japan, she ran a family rice shop and lived through five Japanese imperial eras. Her zest for life, love for games, and sweet tooth made her a beloved public figure.

Sarah Knauss (USA)—119y 97d

American supercentenarian Sarah Knauss was born in 1880 and lived nearly the entire span of the 20th century. Known for her calm, pleasant nature, she enjoyed watching golf and eating chocolate. Her daughter, who lived to 101, credited Sarah’s serenity as the key to her longevity.

Lucile Randon (Sister André) (France) – 118y, 340d

Lucile Randon, known as Sister André, was a French nun who lived to 118. Born in 1904, she worked as a governess and later took religious vows. Remarkably, she survived COVID-19 at 116, capturing global admiration. She dedicated most of her life to caring for the elderly.

Maria Branyas Morera (Spain/USA) – 117+y (alive)

Maria Branyas Morera, currently the world’s oldest verified living person, was born in California in 1907 and moved to Spain as a child. She survived the Spanish flu, two World Wars, and COVID-19. Living in a nursing home in Catalonia, she credits a positive mindset and solitude for her longevity.