Tomiko Itooka, the World's Oldest Person, Passes Away at 116

Tomiko Itooka, officially recognized as the world's oldest person, has died at the age of 116 in Japan, following a remarkable life filled with historical milestones and personal achievements.

Tomiko Itooka, officially recognized by Guinness World Records as the world's oldest person, has died at the age of 116 in a nursing home located in Ashiya, Hyogo Prefecture. Her passing occurred shortly after she celebrated her 116th birthday on May 23, 2024.

After the death of Spain's Maria Branyas Morera in August 2024, Itooka secured her status as the oldest living individual, a fact highlighted by Ashiya's mayor, Ryosuke Takashima, who expressed gratitude for her lifetime of inspiration in a public statement.

Born in May 1908, Itooka witnessed profound changes over more than a century, from the onset of the First World War to the arrival of the information age. She was verified as the oldest person in September 2024 and received her official Guinness World Records certificate during Japan's Respect for the Aged Day, a national holiday celebrating senior citizens.

With a diverse life experience, Itooka played volleyball as a student and even climbed Mount Ontake twice. In her later years, her fondness for bananas and Calpis, a popular Japanese soft drink, was cherished by those closest to her. A devoted mother, she married at 20 and raised two daughters and two sons, all the while managing her husband’s textile factory during World War II.

After her husband’s death in 1979, Itooka lived independently in Nara until her health required nursing care. She is survived by one son, one daughter, and five grandchildren. A statement from local officials confirmed a funeral service attended by family and friends.

As of September 2024, Japan boasts over 95,000 centenarians, with a notable 88% being women. The nation continues to evolve with a demographic where nearly a third of its 124 million citizens are aged 65 or older. Following Itooka's death, Brazilian nun Inah Canabarro Lucas, born just 16 days later, is now recognized as the world's oldest living person.