At the time of this writing in 2016, the average life expectancy in the United States is over 78 years, yet more than 70,000 Americans have reached their 100th birthdays and beyond. Worldwide, there are over 450,000 individuals over 100 years of age (Goodman, 2015).
The United States has the largest known number of centenarians of any nation, and the number has nearly doubled in the period from 1983 to 2016. The U.S. Census Bureau predicts that the centenarian population will at least double again by 2020. The 2010 census counted 53,364 centenarians, defined as people 100 years and over; that was a 5.8% increase from 2000, when 50,454 people were at least 100 years old. The increase was not just a byproduct of the nation’s growing population. In 1990, about 15 of every 100,000 Americans reached 100 years of age; in 2010, the number was more than 23 per 100,000.
Advances in medical care and technology, genetics, and healthier lifestyles are some of the reasons for increased longevity in the United States, where the “oldest old” are mentally and physically active, living much healthier lives than their predecessors, and still living independently. Personality traits and other characteristics may also play a role: the U.S. Census Bureau (2010) reports that centenarians tend to be positive but realistic, spiritual or religious, and resilient; they also love life and have a sense of humor.
Consider these additional facts about centenarians (Administration on Aging, 2014; Boston University Medical Center, 2012; U.S. Census Bureau, 2010):
- Centenarians can be found all over the world.
- Approximately 25% live alone.
- Centenarians are the fastest-growing segment of the population in terms of age.
- Females outnumber males as a percentage of the total centenarian population.
- The oldest living person on record is Madame Jeanne Calment, who died at the age of 122 years in August 1997. She attributed her longevity to port wine, olive oil, and a sense of humor.
- Centenarians are a diverse group of individuals with varied backgrounds, incomes, and occupations and a common belief that hard work is important to health.
- Most centenarians have a strong sense of individualism, a strong sense of self, the ability to cope effectively with losses, an interest in life, a sense of fun, and an optimistic attitude.