Longevity: Meet the Oldest American

Who is more qualified than Verona Johnston to expound on the secrets behind a long, healthy life? The retired Latin teacher, mother of four, grandmother of 13 and great-grandmother of 23 turned 114 on Aug. 6, which makes her the oldest documented person in the U.S. And there's plenty of life in her yet. "I can remember names pretty well," says Johnston, who lived on her own in an apartment until age 98 but now shares a house in Worthington, Ohio, with her daughter Julie Johnson, 81, and Julie's husband Bruce, 83. In fact, Johnston's mind is so sharp that she...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!