World’s Oldest Person, Tomiko Itooka, Dies at 116
Tomiko itooka, a Japanese woman who held the title of world’s oldest person according too Guinness world Records, passed away on December 29th, 2024, at the age of 116. An Ashiya city official confirmed her death at a care home in Hyogo Prefecture, central Japan. Her passing marks the end of an extraordinary life that spanned over a century, witnessing momentous global events and technological advancements.
Ms. Itooka, born Tomiko Yano in May 1908 – the same year the Ford Model T debuted in the U.S. – lived through two World Wars and numerous global pandemics.She was officially recognized as the world’s oldest living person by Guinness World Records in September 2024, receiving her certificate on Japan’s Respect for the Aged Day, a national holiday honoring the elderly.
Beyond her longevity, Ms. Itooka led a vibrant life. As a young woman, she was an active student, playing volleyball and even conquering the challenging 10,062-foot Mount Ontake twice.Later in life, she developed a fondness for bananas and Calpis, a popular Japanese milky soft drink, according to a statement from city officials.”We thank her for it,” an official stated, reflecting on her remarkable life.
Ms. Itooka married at the age of 20 and raised a family of four children. During World War II, she played a crucial role in managing her husband’s textile factory. After her husband’s passing in 1979, she continued to live independently in Nara before eventually moving to a care facility.
She is survived by one son, one daughter, and five grandchildren. A private funeral service was held for family and close friends.
Ms. Itooka’s passing highlights the increasing longevity in Japan. As of September 2024, Japan reported over 95,000 centenarians, with a remarkable 88% being women. Nearly one-third of Japan’s 124 million population is aged 65 or older, a demographic trend that presents both opportunities and challenges for the nation’s healthcare and social security systems. This trend mirrors similar aging populations in many developed nations,including the United States,raising important questions about long-term care and retirement planning.
Following Ms. Itooka’s death, the title of world’s oldest person is believed to belong to Brazilian nun Inah Canabarro Lucas, born just 16 days after Ms. Itooka.
world’s Oldest Person Passes Away at 116: An Interview with Dr. Hiroshi Tanaka
[Interview Intro Music]
Senior Editor: Welcome back to World Today News. Today, we’re discussing the remarkable life of Tomiko Itooka, who recently passed away at the age of 116. She was recognized by Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest person. Joining us today is Dr. Hiroshi Tanaka, a leading expert on gerontology and longevity in Japan. dr. Tanaka, thank you for being here.
dr. Tanaka: It’s my pleasure to be here. Tomiko Itooka’s life was truly inspiring, and her passing is a significant event.
Senior Editor: Absolutely. Ms. Itooka lived through periods of immense change – two World Wars, technological advancements, and shifting societal norms. How did she navigate such a long and dynamic life?
Dr. Tanaka: From what we know, Ms. Itooka was a resilient individual. She was an active member of her community, enjoyed physical activity, and maintained a positive outlook. Studies suggest that strong social connections, a healthy lifestyle, and a sense of purpose are crucial factors contributing to longevity.She embodied these qualities.
Senior Editor: The article mentions she was fond of bananas and Calpis, a Japanese dairy drink. Can diet truly play a role in reaching such an advanced age?
Dr. Tanaka: While there’s no magical food for longevity, a balanced diet definitely contributes. Ms Itooka’s preference for these foods may have played a small role,perhaps due to their nutritional content.however, it’s more likely a combination of factors, as we discussed earlier.
Senior Editor: Japan has a notably high number of centenarians. What are some underlying reasons for this?
Dr. Tanaka: Japanese culture emphasizes respect for elders, which frequently enough translates into strong support networks for older adults. additionally, Japan has a universal healthcare system that provides accessible and affordable care for all citizens. Diet, rich in fish and vegetables, is also a contributing factor.
senior Editor: Indeed, a interesting topic. Ms. Itooka’s passing also brings to light the global trend of aging populations. What challenges and opportunities does this present?
Dr.Tanaka: This trend poses challenges for healthcare systems and social security programs. We need to invest in eldercare, ensure financial security for retirees, and adapt infrastructure to be more senior-friendly. Though, it also presents opportunities for economic growth in sectors catering to the needs of older adults. It encourages innovation in healthcare and technology and shifts societal perspectives on aging.
Senior Editor: Dr. Tanaka, thank you for sharing your valuable insights. Ms. Itooka’s remarkable life serves as engaged with the world around them