World's Oldest Living Sisters, Aged 109, 104, and 103, Undergo DNA Longevity Research
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Three Brazilian sisters, aged 109, 104, and 103, have been recognized by Guinness World Records for their combined age of 316 years.
- Scientists are studying the sisters to understand the factors contributing to their longevity and sharp minds, noting their upbringing involved manual labor, farm-fresh food, and swimming in rivers.
- The sisters led conventional, hardworking lives, with one sister managing the household and another building a career as a teacher and nurse, highlighting a history of dedication to family and work.
Three Brazilian sisters have achieved a remarkable feat, officially recognized by Guinness World Records for holding the highest combined age of three living siblings. At 109, 104, and 103 years old, Levita, Zoraide, and a third sister, whose name was not provided, collectively represent 316 years of life. Their extraordinary longevity has captured the attention of scientists eager to uncover the secrets behind their enduring health and mental acuity.
Levita de Deus Nunes was born on 7 June 1917, and has turned 109 since the visit took place. The second-eldest of eight siblings, it was Levita who managed the home, organized the household routine, and cared for the family while her parents worked in the fields.
Originally from Cedro de Sรฃo Joรฃo in Sergipe, Brazil, the sisters grew up in a large family of eight. Their youth was characterized by demanding physical labor, a diet of farm-fresh produce, and swimming in natural rivers. These experiences, coupled with a hardworking ethos, may have contributed to their remarkable lifespans. Later in life, they relocated to Rio de Janeiro.
Around 1953, she moved to Rio de Janeiro to support Zulina during the difficult process of adapting to the new city. Although she never married nor had children, Levita devoted her entire life to her family.
Detailed profiles reveal that despite their record-breaking age, the sisters lived conventional lives. Levita, the eldest, managed the household and cared for the family while her parents worked. She later moved to Rio to support Zoraide and worked for Rede Globo Television for 12 years. Zoraide, the second eldest, pursued careers as a primary school teacher and a nurse, marrying and raising five children. Their upbringing included access to high-quality pork from their father's farm, suggesting a nutritious diet from a young age.
Zoraide recalled that the family enjoyed high-quality pork in their youth. Their father raised pigs and butchered them himself, selling the meat directly from their home. While much of it was sold to customers, he always set aside the best cuts for his family to enjoy.
Originally published by The Punch in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.