Elizabeth Whitaker lived to an astonishing 117 years, making her the oldest person in the world when she passed away in England last year. Scientists now believe her remarkable longevity might be due to her body ageing far more slowly than her actual years would suggest.
People have always been curious about supercentenariansthose who reach 110 or beyondand what their lives can teach us about healthy ageing. Before her death in August 2024, Whitaker agreed to assist a team of British researchers in uncovering the secrets behind her long life.
At 116, she provided blood, saliva, urine, and stool samples so experts could study her genetics and gut health, comparing them to larger groups of elderly individuals. While many her age suffer from chronic illnesses, Whitaker had surprisingly low inflammation, a gut microbiome that appeared rejuvenated, and an epigenomechanges in gene expressionthat seemed unusually youthful.
Researchers described her as “an extraordinary case” and found rare genetic variations in her DNA that may have shielded her from common ailments like heart disease, diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimers and Parkinsons. Their findings, published in *Cell Reports Medicine*, offer new insights into ageing, suggesting possible ways to extend healthy lifespans.
Though genetics clearly played a role, the team also examined Whitakers lifestyle for clues. She enjoyed three yoghurts daily, which might have supported her gut health and weight. She followed a balanced diet, maintained regular sleep patterns, stayed active, and kept a positive mental outlook.
Beyond that, Whitaker led a full lifesocialising often, reading, playing the piano, and gardening. The researchers noted that her case challenges the assumption that ageing and disease must always go hand in hand, proving that under the right conditions, the two can indeed come apart.
