Potential oldest man in Costa Rica

José Flores, a 119‑year‑old resident of the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica, is being documented for verification by the Gerontology Research Group. Confirmation would make him the world’s oldest living man, surpassing the current male record and approaching Jeanne Calment’s longevity benchmark. Flores attributes his health to hard work, daily prayer, a simple diet, and an active lifestyle, despite living in modest conditions and receiving a small pension.

A follow‑up report notes that, if certified, Flores would also highlight the Nicoya region’s status as one of the world’s “Blue Zones,” areas noted for high numbers of centenarians. The story also references ongoing scientific debate over the Blue Zone concept, citing recent criticism and research questioning its robustness. Together, the reports combine human‑interest details about Flores’s potential record with broader discussions about the factors that may contribute to exceptional longevity.