World & Nation

World’s oldest man? Bolivia’s Carmelo Flores Laura is said to be 123

Bolivian villager Carmelo Flores Laura is Aymara -- an indigenous South American tribe. He may be the world's oldest living person.

Bolivian villager Carmelo Flores Laura is Aymara -- an indigenous South American tribe. He may be the world’s oldest living person.   (Juan Karita / Associated Press)

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If Bolivia’s public records are correct, Carmelo Flores Laura is the oldest living person ever documented. They say he turned 123 a month ago.

Bolivian may be world's oldest person

Carmelo Flores Laura walks near his home in the village of Frasquia, Bolivia.   (Juan Karita / Associated Press)

No cane, no glasses

Flores walks without a cane and, although he sees “a bit dimly,” doesn’t wear glasses.  (Juan Karita / Associated Press)

Flores' humble home

Carmelo Flores Laura live in a hut with straw roof and dirt floor.   (Juan Karita / Associated Press)

Flores and great-grandchildren

Carmelo Flores Laura with some of his great-grandchildren.  (Juan Karita / Associated Press)

Frasquia village in Bolivia

A view of Frasquia village. Flores says of his longevity: “I walk a lot, that’s all. I go out with the animals.”  (Juan Karita / Associated Press)

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