Tomiko Itooka, the Japanese woman celebrated as the world’s oldest person by Guinness World Records, passed away at the age of 116 on December 29, 2024. She died peacefully at a nursing home in Ashiya, Hyogo Prefecture, where she had resided since 2019. Her passing marks the end of a remarkable life that spanned over a century of global events and historical milestones.
Early Life and Personal History
Born on May 23, 1908, in Osaka, Japan, Itooka’s life began during a transformative period in history, just months before the launch of the Ford Model T automobile in the United States. She was one of three siblings and enjoyed an active youth, including playing volleyball during her school years. Known for her adventurous spirit, she even climbed the 3,067-meter Mount Ontake twice.
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At the age of 20, Itooka married and took on the role of managing the office at her husband’s textile factory during World War II. After her husband’s death in 1979, she lived independently in Nara before moving to the nursing home. Itooka had a family of four children, two sons and two daughters, and is survived by one son, one daughter, and five grandchildren.
Recognition as the World’s Oldest Person
Itooka gained international recognition in August 2024 following the death of Spain’s Maria Branyas Morera, who was 117. Her ascension to the title of the world’s oldest person was validated by the Gerontology Research Group and Guinness World Records. When informed of her new status, she humbly responded with a simple “Thank you.”
In her later years, Itooka was known for her love of bananas and Calpis, a popular yogurt-flavored drink in Japan. On her 116th birthday, she received flowers, a cake, and a card from Ashiya’s mayor, Ryosuke Takashima, who praised her for giving people “courage and hope through her long life.”
Century of Historical Milestones
Throughout her extraordinary life, Itooka witnessed profound changes in the world, including two world wars, multiple pandemics, and the rise of groundbreaking technologies. Her experiences mirrored Japan’s transformation from a war-torn nation to an economic powerhouse. Despite the challenges of aging, Itooka remained active and spirited, a testament to her resilience and positive outlook.
Japan’s Longevity and Challenges
Itooka’s life is a reflection of Japan’s remarkable longevity rates. The country boasts one of the highest life expectancies globally, with over 95,000 centenarians as of September 2024, 88% of whom are women. However, this longevity comes with challenges. Nearly a third of Japan’s 124 million people are aged 65 or older, contributing to escalating healthcare and welfare costs, while a shrinking workforce struggles to support these needs.
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Ashiya’s mayor, Takashima, expressed gratitude for Itooka’s inspiring life, saying, “We thank her for it.” A private funeral service was held with family and friends. The title of the world’s oldest person now passes to Inah Canabarro Lucas, a 116-year-old Brazilian nun born just 16 days after Itooka.