Reaching 100: 'I never thought I'd make it to this age'
Summary
The number of people aged 100 or older in the UK has reached a record high, with 16,650 centenarians in 2024. Women make up the majority of this group, but the number of men reaching 100 is increasing. Two centenarians, May O'Shea and Mary Smith, share their life stories and longevity secrets.Key Facts
- In 2024, there are an estimated 16,650 people aged 100 or older in the UK.
- May O'Shea, a centenarian, survived a World War II blitz and credits her longevity to not smoking or drinking.
- Mary Smith, another centenarian, attributes her long life to good genes and staying active.
- Women make up over 80% of the people aged 100 and above.
- The proportion of men reaching 100 has risen from 10.9% to 18.4% in the past 20 years.
- Improved living conditions, nutrition, and medical advances have contributed to more people living to 100.
- In Scotland, for the first time, 1,000 people are aged 100 or over.
- Experts predict a small increase in centenarians over the next few decades.
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