World’s Oldest Person, Tomiko Itooka, Dies at 116
Tomiko Itooka, a Japanese woman who held the title of world’s oldest person according to Guinness World Records, passed away on December 29th, 2023, at the age of 116. The news was confirmed by Yoshitsugu Nagata, an official overseeing senior citizen policies in Hyogo prefecture, central Japan, where Itooka resided in a nursing home in Ashiya.
Born on May 23, 1908, in Osaka, Itooka led a vibrant life.She enjoyed a simple pleasure: bananas and calpis, a popular Japanese yogurt-flavored drink. Her remarkable longevity made her a global figure, achieving the title of world’s oldest person last year following the passing of 117-year-old Maria Branyas. When informed of her new record, Itooka’s response was characteristically understated: “Thank you.”
Itooka’s life was filled with activity. Nagata described her as possessing a “sprightly spirit” throughout her life. She was a volleyball player in high school and even managed to climb the 10,062-foot Mount ontake twice! She married at the age of 20 and raised a family of four children, according to Guinness World Records. During World War II, she managed the office of her husband’s textile factory, demonstrating her resilience and strength.
Last year, on her birthday, she received a celebratory cake, flowers, and a card from the mayor, a testament to her status as a local icon. After her husband passed away in 1979, she lived independently in Nara before moving to the nursing home. She is survived by her children and five grandchildren. A private funeral service was held for family and close friends.
Following Itooka’s passing, the title of world’s oldest person now belongs to 116-year-old inah canabarro Lucas, a Brazilian nun born just 16 days after itooka, according to the Gerontology Research Group (GRG).Her story serves as a reminder of the remarkable capacity for human longevity and the diverse experiences that shape a long and fulfilling life.
Related: Never take health tips from world’s oldest people, say scientists
A Life Well Lived: Remembering Tomiko Itooka, the World’s Oldest Person
World Today News Senior Editor: Welcome back to the show, everyone. Today, we’re diving deep into the remarkable life of Tomiko Itooka, who recently passed away at the age of 116, having held the title of the world’s oldest person.
Joining us to discuss Itooka’s extraordinary life, and what we can learn from it, is Dr. Emily Carter, a gerontology expert and author of several books on longevity.
Dr. Carter, welcome to the show!
Dr. Emily Carter: It’s a pleasure to be here. Tomiko Itooka truly embodied the spirit of resilience and lived a life filled with purpose.
World Today News Senior Editor: Absolutely. can you tell us a bit about Itooka’s life story? What stands out to you as particularly inspiring?
Dr. Emily Carter: She led a truly remarkable life. From her early days as a volleyball player and an avid mountaineer to raising a family and even managing her husband’s textile factory during wartime, Itooka demonstrated extraordinary strength and adaptability throughout her life. Her love for simple pleasures like bananas and Calpis also speaks volumes about finding joy in the everyday.
world Today News Senior Editor: it’s amazing how her lifestyle choices, combined with her spirit likely contributed to her longevity. What lessons can we take away from Itooka’s story?
Dr. Emily Carter: While there’s no one-size-fits-all formula for longevity, itooka’s life highlights the importance of a few key factors. First, maintaining a sense of purpose and staying active is crucial. Second, while we all face challenges, her resilience in overcoming adversity shows it’s power. finding joy in everyday life and nurturing social connections can contribute to overall well-being and a long,fulfilling life.
World Today News Senior Editor: Thank you so much, Dr. Carter, for sharing yoru insights on Tomiko Itooka’s remarkable life. Her story truly is an inspiration. And to our viewers, we’ll have links to Dr. Carter’s books and resources in the show notes. Until next time!
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