In a poignant moment marking the end of an extraordinary life, Japan’s Tomiko Itooka, recognized as the world’s oldest verified living person, has died at the age of 116. The news was confirmed by Kyodo news agency, which reported that Itooka passed away peacefully of natural causes on December 29, 2024.
Itooka, who lived through two world wars and numerous other historical events, had been the holder of the Guinness World Record for the oldest person living since September 2024. She took the title after the passing of another Japanese supercentenarian, Fusa Tatsumi, in December 2023.
Tomiko Itooka was born in Osaka and had lived a life that spanned over a century, witnessing monumental changes in global history. Her life was not just a testament to longevity but also to the resilience of the human spirit. She resided in a nursing home in Ashiya, Hyogo Prefecture, where she was celebrated for her clear communication skills and her love for bananas and Calpis, a popular Japanese drink.
The mantle of the world’s oldest living person now passes to Inah Canabarro Lucas, a 116-year-old Brazilian citizen. Lucas, who was born on June 8, 1908, in the city of São Leopoldo, Brazil, has now become the oldest verified living person, carrying forward the legacy of extraordinary longevity.
The passing of Itooka is not just a moment of reflection on the extraordinary length of her life but also prompts discussions on health, lifestyle, and the secrets to a long life. Japan, known for its high life expectancy, continues to be a focal point for studies on aging and gerontology.
Itooka’s life story, from her early days in a rapidly modernizing Japan to her later years as a symbol of human longevity, will be remembered and studied for years to come. Her passing marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another in the ongoing narrative of human life’s potential span.
The world now looks to Inah Canabarro Lucas, hoping to glean further insights into the art of living long and well, as we continue to explore what it means to age gracefully in the 21st century.
