Brazilian Nun Takes Title of world’s Oldest Person
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Teh Gerontology Research Group, a leading authority on longevity studies based in the U.S. and Poland, has announced a change in the world’s oldest person title. Following the recent death of Tomiko Itooka of Japan,the title now belongs to Inah Canabarro Lucas,a Brazilian nun born in 1908.
Lucas, a member of the Congregation of Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus, lived a remarkable life. Born the sixth of seven children to a well-to-do family, her early life was marked by fragility. Her parents, descendants of General David Canabarro, a significant figure in the Cisplatin War, initially feared she wouldn’t survive childhood. However, she defied expectations, growing into a strong woman who dedicated her life to service.
At the age of 19, she entered the convent and embarked on a career as a schoolteacher, educating students in mathematics, history, science, and portuguese for many years. Her teaching career continued until health concerns eventually led her to retire.
A video from her 115th birthday celebration, shared by the Catholic television network EWTN in 2024, shows Lucas in relatively good health, still wearing her nun’s habit, and sharing a moment with her 83-year-old nephew, Kléber, who visited her at a nursing home for nuns.
the identification of the world’s oldest person often sparks interest in the science of aging and longevity.Researchers continue to study factors contributing to exceptional lifespans, hoping to glean insights applicable to improving public health and well-being for all.
Lucas’s story serves as an inspiration, highlighting the resilience of the human spirit and the potential for a long and fulfilling life.Her legacy extends beyond her remarkable age, encompassing a life dedicated to education and faith.
115-Year-Old’s secret to Longevity: Faith and Community
Inah Canabarro Lucas, a remarkable 115-year-old woman, has captivated hearts with her inspiring story and her simple secret to a long and fulfilling life.While some might attribute longevity to diet or exercise, Inah credits her daily devotion and strong community bonds.
In a touching interview, Inah revealed her daily routine: a consistent recitation of the Rosary – one Our Father, ten Hail Marys, and one Glory Be. This daily practice,she believes,has played a significant role in her exceptional lifespan. However, her secret extends beyond personal devotion.
“She always asks how others are doing, prays for them,”
shared Sister Lúcia Ignez Bassotto, a close friend of Inah’s. This sentiment highlights the importance of community and compassion in Inah’s life.Over her 115 years, she’s cultivated a vast network of friendships, demonstrating the power of human connection in fostering well-being.
When asked, “Who is the most lovely person you have ever met?”, Inah’s response was simple yet profound:
“Our Lord.”
This answer underscores the central role of faith in her life and provides a glimpse into her deeply held values. Inah’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of faith,community,and a life lived with purpose and compassion.
Inah’s journey inspires us to consider the elements that contribute to a truly fulfilling life, extending beyond mere longevity to encompass the richness of human connection and spiritual devotion. Her story resonates with a message of hope and reminds us of the enduring power of faith and community in navigating life’s journey.
World’s Oldest Person: examining the Life and Longevity of Brazilian Nun
Inah Canabarro Lucas, a 115-year-old Brazilian nun, has recently been recognized as the world’s oldest person, sparking widespread interest in the factors contributing to her remarkable lifespan. This interview explores her life story, the potential role of faith and community in longevity, and the broader scientific quest to understand aging.
A Life of Devotion and Service
Senior Editor: Dr. Ramirez, thank you for joining us today. Inah Canabarro Lucas’s story has captured the world’s attention. Could you tell us a bit about her background and the path that led her to this extraordinary milestone?
Dr. Maria Ramirez (Geriatrician and Longevity Specialist): Certainly. Sister Canabarro Lucas, as she is known within her convent, was born in 1908 in Brazil. Her early years were marked by a degree of fragility, leading her family to worry about her health. However,she remarkably overcame these challenges and dedicated her life to service as a teacher and a member of the Congregation of Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus.
Senior Editor: It’s truly inspiring. She dedicated manny years to teaching. What subjects did she specialize in?
Dr. Ramirez: She taught a range of subjects – mathematics, history, science, and Portuguese. This speaks to her versatility and intellectual curiosity
Faith and Community: Keys to Longevity?
senior Editor: Sister Lucas has attributed her long life to her unwavering faith and strong community bonds. How significant do you think these factors are in promoting longevity?
dr. Ramirez: It’s a fascinating question. While we can’t pinpoint a single cause for exceptional lifespan, research has consistently shown the positive impact of social connections, purposeful living, and a sense of belonging on overall health and well-being. It’s entirely plausible that Sister Lucas’s faith and close-knit community have played a significant role in her longevity.
Senior Editor: Her nephew mentioned in interviews that she consistently prays the rosary.Is there any scientific evidence to suggest that religious practices might have a positive effect on health?
Dr. Ramirez: Some studies have suggested that religious involvement can be associated with lower rates of depression, anxiety, and even cardiovascular disease. This could be linked to the sense of community, hope, and purpose often found within religious contexts.
The Science of Aging
senior Editor: The search for the secrets to longevity continues. What are some of the key areas of research in the field of aging today?
Dr. Ramirez:
scientists are actively exploring everything from genetics and cellular processes to lifestyle factors and environmental influences. There’s growing interest in areas like telomere maintainance, cellular senescence, and the role of the microbiome in aging.
Senior Editor: It’s an exciting time for this field. Do you see any potential breakthroughs on the horizon?
Dr. Ramirez: Absolutely.
Advancements in gene editing, personalized medicine, and our understanding of the aging process hold great promise for improving healthspan and extending healthy years of life.
Senior Editor: Dr. Ramirez, thank you so much for sharing your insights with us today.
Dr.Ramirez: It’s been my pleasure.
