Arme Tsering, The Oldest Living Person, Turns 118

With all the advancements in science, health, and general living conditions around the world, it is no surprise that people are living better and longer. Still, it never stops being amazing when we talk about someone who has lived on this Earth for over a century.

118 tibet Arme Tsering, The Oldest Living Person, Turns 118 picture

Arme Tsering, a Tibetan women, has lived well over 100 years as she celebrated her 118th birthday last Monday.

Relaxing in her courtyard in Lhasa, Tsering was joined by friends, family, and even the local county and village officials who came by to wish her good health, sing ‘happy birthday’, and eat some cake.

118 tibet01 Arme Tsering, The Oldest Living Person, Turns 118 picture

So why isn’t Tsering considered the oldest person in the world?

Well the problem is in the Guinness rules. In order to apply and hold the record, the individual must undergo DNA testing, which the local village and area around Tsering’s home are unable to perform. And at Tsering’s age, it is just too much of a risk to travel to a location that could conduct the tests.

“Mom’s health is deteriorating every day,” said her daughter, Yangjen, 70. “She has high blood pressure, asthma and chronic bronchitis. Her memory is fading and she rarely talks.”

Tsering, who was born March 16, 1891, in a small village in Ngari prefecture, is unable to see, hear, or even walk anymore.

While Tsering might not be able to hold the record of the oldest person, she definitely has the years behind her. So what is the secret to Tsering’s longevity?

Her daughter says it is simple. Tea, minced beef, and zanba, a food made of fried barley flour.

(link)

By Sun Tzu on 21-03-2009