World's Oldest Person, Japanese Woman Tomiko Itooka, Passes Away at 116
The world's oldest person, Japanese woman Tomiko Itooka, has passed away at the age of 116, the city of Ashiya announced on Saturday. Itooka, who had four children and five grandchildren, breathed her last on Dec. 29 at a nursing home where she had been residing since 2019, according to the southern city's mayor.
Life and Legacy
Tomiko Itooka was born on May 23, 1908, in the bustling city of Osaka, located near Ashiya – just four months prior to the launch of the Ford Model T automobile in the United States.
A Source of Inspiration
After the passing of Spain's Maria Branyas Morera at the age of 117 in August 2024, Itooka was recognized as the oldest person in the world. Ashiya's mayor Ryosuke Takashima expressed gratitude towards Itooka, stating that she provided courage and hope through her long and eventful life. She witnessed and experienced significant historical events, including world wars, pandemics, and technological advancements.
Passions and Preferences
During her school years, Itooka actively participated in volleyball. In her later years, she took pleasure in consuming bananas and Calpis, a popular milky soft drink in Japan, as mentioned in the mayor's statement.
Longevity in Japan
Japanese women are known for their longevity, but the country is currently grappling with a demographic crisis due to the rapidly growing elderly population, leading to increased medical and welfare expenses. The shrinking workforce poses challenges in sustaining these costs.
Current Statistics
As of September, Japan had over 95,000 centenarians, with 88% of them being women. Out of Japan's total population of 124 million, almost a third are 65 years old or above.
Succession of Oldest Person
Following Itooka's demise, the title of the world's oldest person now belongs to 116-year-old Brazilian nun Inah Canabarro Lucas, born on June 8, 1908, according to the U.S. Gerontological Research Group and LongeviQuest.
