Japan is home to the world’s oldest population, with more than 71,000 centenarians. The nation is also home to the oldest living person in the world: Kane Tanaka, who just celebrated her 117th birthday this month.
According to the Washington Post, Tanaka, born on January 2, 1903, had dreamt of holding the record for world’s oldest person since she turned 100. Her dream finally came true last year, when the Guinness World Records handed her official certificates during a ceremony at her nursing home. When asked about the happiest moment in her long life, she simply replied, “Now.”
Japan’s healthy food traditions may play a significant role in its citizens’ long lives, and genetics may also be a reason for longevity. Gerontology Research Group, a leading authority tracking those over 110 years of age – or supercentenarians – has a database of the world’s oldest humans and, according to the Smithsonian, also conducts research that could help provide solutions on how to slow down the aging process.
