A review of centenarian studies

Studying centenarians requires a ‘positive biology’ approach, where rather than focusing on disease, the research aims to understand the causes of positive phenotypes and explain biological mechanisms of health and longevity. This review outlines characteristics of the key centenarian studies. Variables that may relate to longevity of these oldest old are also described, including cardiovascular health, cognitive function, physical ability, mental and cognitive health, personality and the social circumstances of the centenarian.