A case of extraordinary longevity

Abstract

With more and more people living to an older age, the elderly and their problems are being widely promoted, both locally and in the international sphere. While public awareness is being created to help identify and eliminate difficulties which mar old age, and governments are directing more of their energies towards the same targets, it is refreshing and encouraging to recall a case where a Maltese lived to the ripe old age of more than one hundred and eleven years, devoid of the major physical and/or mental complications which frequently accompany longevity. Giovanni Schembri was born in Qormi, Malta, on the 7th March 1757: he died on July 2nd 1868 – one hundred and eleven years, three months, and twenty five days. His case was brought to the attention of Sir Ferdinand Inglott, then Comptroller of Charitable Institutions, who recorded the details for posterity.