Jeanne Calment lived an extraordinary 122 years and 164 days, making her the oldest person whose age has been fully authenticated. Her remarkable longevity continues to fascinate people because her life didn’t perfectly match the healthy-living rules many associate with reaching an advanced age.

Calment reportedly smoked cigarettes until she was 117, enjoyed port wine, and had a particular fondness for chocolate. She was also surprisingly active for much of her life, reportedly riding a bicycle until she was 100 and remaining in her own home in Arles, France, until she was 110.

When asked about her longevity, Calment often emphasized her attitude toward life rather than following a strict health formula. She enjoyed olive oil, kept herself mentally active, maintained her sense of humor, and believed there was little value in worrying about things beyond her control. Her relaxed outlook became one of the most memorable parts of her story.

However, her lifestyle should not be interpreted as a recipe for living longer. Smoking, for example, is well established as harmful to health, and Calment’s experience was an unusual exception rather than evidence that these habits promote longevity. Genetics, environment, healthcare, and countless other factors can influence how long someone lives.

Perhaps the most interesting lesson from Calment’s story is not about chocolate, wine, or cigarettes at all. Her life is a reminder that extraordinary longevity is complex and cannot be reduced to one “secret.” Staying active, remaining socially and mentally engaged, enjoying life, and managing stress may all contribute to well-being—but there is no guaranteed formula for reaching 122.