Tomiko Itooka, the world’s oldest person, passed away at the age of 116, according to an announcement by the city of Ashiya, Japan, where she resided. She died on December 29 in a nursing home where she had lived since 2019.
Born on May 23, 1908, in Osaka, Itooka witnessed over a century of history, including world wars and significant technological advancements. Recognized as the oldest living person following the death of Spain’s Maria Branyas Morera in August 2024, Itooka’s life spanned eras of extraordinary change.
Ashiya Mayor Ryosuke Takashima expressed gratitude, stating, “Ms. Itooka gave us courage and hope through her long life. We thank her for it.”
Itooka, a mother of four and grandmother of five, was known for her fondness for bananas and Calpis, a popular Japanese milky drink. She also enjoyed playing volleyball during her student days.
Japan, renowned for its high life expectancy, counted over 95,000 centenarians as of September 2024, with 88% being women. However, the nation faces a demographic challenge with an aging population and a declining workforce. Nearly a third of its 124 million citizens are aged 65 or older.
