Ranking of the oldest people who ever lived worldwide 2022

As of late 2022, Jeanne Calment was the oldest person who ever lived. Born in Arles, France, in 1875, she died at the age of 122 years and 164 days. The American, Sarah Knauss, followed, having lived 119 years and 97 days. On January 17, 2023, nun Sister André died at the age of 118.

Ageing populations a result of lower fertility rates and higher life expectancies

Population aging indicates a rise in the median age of the population. In 2022, Monaco was the country with the highest percentage of the population aged 65 years and older, amounting to 36 percent. In the same year, Japan recorded the second oldest population globally with 29 percent of the Japanese population over 65. Moreover, Monaco has recorded the highest median age in the world at over 55 years, followed, again, by Japan. In terms of fertility rates, some of the lowest figures can be found across parts of Asia, with Taiwan recording the lowest fertility rate at 1.07 children per woman.

Ageing populations put a strain on the health and social system

Geriatric healthcare refers to the health and care of the elderly. Particularly, this branch of the healthcare system addresses older adults’ healthcare needs and prevents and treats diseases among the older population, such as heart and/or respiratory diseases, cancer, and dementia. For instance, heart diseases and tumors were among the leading death causes in the United States. In most countries, to treat such diseases among others, people need either public or private insurance. In 2022, United Healthcare was the most valuable healthcare service brand worldwide.