A remarkable milestone has been reached in the UK, as the number of centenarians – individuals aged 100 and above – has more than doubled since 2004. According to data from the Office for National Statistics, there are now an astonishing 16,600 centenarians living in the country.
What's striking is the rapid growth in this demographic. Between 2004 and 2024, the number of male centenarians has tripled, rising from 910 to a staggering 3,100. In contrast, female centenarians have seen their numbers almost double, jumping from 7,400 to 13,600.
As we celebrate these remarkable individuals, who have witnessed some of the most seismic events and social changes in modern history, we want to hear from them – or those closest to them – about what it's been like to live through a century marked by two world wars, the rise and fall of empires, technological revolutions, and shifting societal norms.
What words of wisdom would these extraordinary individuals offer to their younger selves? What secrets lie behind their remarkable longevity? We invite centenarians, their families, or friends to share their stories and insights – and maybe even reveal a few secrets for living an extra century.
What's striking is the rapid growth in this demographic. Between 2004 and 2024, the number of male centenarians has tripled, rising from 910 to a staggering 3,100. In contrast, female centenarians have seen their numbers almost double, jumping from 7,400 to 13,600.
As we celebrate these remarkable individuals, who have witnessed some of the most seismic events and social changes in modern history, we want to hear from them – or those closest to them – about what it's been like to live through a century marked by two world wars, the rise and fall of empires, technological revolutions, and shifting societal norms.
What words of wisdom would these extraordinary individuals offer to their younger selves? What secrets lie behind their remarkable longevity? We invite centenarians, their families, or friends to share their stories and insights – and maybe even reveal a few secrets for living an extra century.
16,600 centenarians in the UK is crazy! I mean, they've seen so much history unfold... it's like watching a 100-year-old Netflix series and you're still hooked after every season. What's interesting to me is that while their numbers are growing, we still don't know much about what makes them tick. Maybe they have some tricks up their sleeve? It'd be awesome to hear from them – I bet they've got some sage advice for us young folks 
I'm fascinated by these centenarians and what they must have seen! It's like, we're always talking about how our grandparents didn't experience the same world as us, but now it sounds like their generation was actually witnessing some pretty wild stuff. 
And the fact that there are now more centenarians than ever before is just amazing - it's like they're defying age or something! 
100 is just the new 20, right?! 
. Like, what's the secret to eating an entire apple every day and living for 100+ years? 
. What do you think they'd say to themselves if they could turn back time? Would they want to give any advice or warnings to the younger versions of themselves?
. That's just mind-blowing! I'm sure their stories will be so inspiring and full of wisdom 
.
! I wonder what their stories would be if we could just sit down with them and chat for a hot sec. Would they give us advice on how to live longer, or maybe just remind us to appreciate the little things? 
!
, where they have like over 80,000 or something... but still, you gotta respect the Brits for getting so many centenarians on the books! 
Is it just genetics and good luck, or are there actual habits or lifestyle choices that contribute to living an extra century? 
! It's amazing to think about the people we're talking about - they've literally seen empires rise and fall 
, lived through wars that changed the world forever 
. I mean, can you even imagine what it must be like to still be going strong after all these years? They're basically human superheroes 
! What would be cool is if we could get some insight into their daily lives now - do they still enjoy the things they loved when they were younger, or have their interests changed over time? Maybe they have some tips on how to stay young at heart (or at least, not lose your mind 
And what's up with this rapid growth, huh? It's like they're defying the odds or something 
. I'm not buying that it's just due to better healthcare and living standards... there must be some other factor at play here 
. Maybe it's all about diet and lifestyle... but no way is it that simple 
. I bet there are some hidden patterns and connections we're not seeing yet 
. And what do these centenarians know that we don't? Are they being silenced or something? 
(just kidding, but seriously, what's the formula?) or at least to 100+ years old. And honestly, who wouldn't want to know what wisdom these ancient souls would share with us? 
. Do they have any words of wisdom for younger people? What's the secret to staying healthy and active at 100+ years young? 
! I mean, can you imagine being alive in 2025 if you were born like, over a hundred years ago? That's crazy! 
I'd love to hear from them about how they've adapted to all these technological advancements we take for granted today... like what was it like when TVs were still black & white and computers were huge room-sized things? 
would be so cool to get some insight into their experiences 
. It's crazy to think about what they must've seen & experienced over the years. I wonder what their secrets are 
. I guess it's amazing to think about the stories they must have to tell, but at what cost? Are our healthcare systems and social services going to be able to keep up with this influx of people needing care? 
It's a bit mind-boggling to think about.