Tomiko Itooka, a remarkable Japanese woman recognized by Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest person, passed away on December 29, 2024, at the age of 116. Residing in a care home in Ashiya, Hyogo Prefecture, central Japan, Itooka’s long and fulfilling life was marked by simple pleasures, a vibrant spirit, and the enduring bonds of family. Her passing underscores the transient nature of life while simultaneously celebrating the remarkable longevity achieved by some individuals. Itooka’s story provides a glimpse into the lives of supercentenarians, those who surpass the age of 110, and offers a reflection on the factors that may contribute to such exceptional lifespan.
Born on May 23, 1908, in Osaka, Japan, Itooka witnessed a century of profound global transformations. Her early years were marked by the rise of Japan as a modern industrial power, followed by the tumultuous years of World War II. During the war, she played an active role in supporting her family’s textile factory, demonstrating resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity. In the post-war era, she witnessed Japan’s astonishing economic recovery and its emergence as a global leader in technology and innovation. Her life journey mirrors the dynamic changes that shaped modern Japan and underscores the remarkable capacity of the human spirit to persevere and thrive through various historical periods.
Itooka’s personal life was filled with a zest for life and a love for simple pleasures. She was known for her fondness for bananas and Calpis, a popular yogurt-flavored Japanese drink. Her youthful spirit was evident in her passion for physical activity, including scaling the impressive heights of Mount Ontake, a 3,067-meter peak, not once, but twice. This love for the outdoors and her active lifestyle likely contributed to her overall health and well-being, playing a possible role in her exceptional longevity. Her marriage at the age of 20 led to a family life filled with the joys and responsibilities of raising two daughters and two sons. She remained an active and engaged member of her community, maintaining close ties with family and friends throughout her life.
Upon learning of her status as the world’s oldest person following the passing of Maria Branyas in 2023, Itooka responded with characteristic humility, simply saying, “Thank you.” This humble demeanor, coupled with her enduring spirit, endeared her to many. Her birthday celebrations were marked by community recognition, including flowers, a cake, and a card from the local mayor. These gestures of appreciation reflect the respect and admiration she garnered within her community, acknowledging her remarkable longevity and her contributions as a valued member of society.
Itooka’s legacy extends beyond her personal achievements. She represents a growing demographic of supercentenarians, individuals who live beyond 110 years. The study of supercentenarians is of immense interest to scientists and researchers seeking to understand the factors that contribute to exceptional longevity. While genetics undoubtedly play a role, lifestyle factors such as diet, physical activity, and social engagement are also believed to be significant contributors. Itooka’s active lifestyle and close-knit family relationships offer valuable insights into the potential factors that can promote healthy aging and exceptional lifespan.
Following Itooka’s passing, the mantle of the world’s oldest person was passed to Inah Canabarro Lucas, a Brazilian nun born just 16 days after Itooka. The transfer of this title serves as a reminder of the continuous cycle of life and death, while also highlighting the ever-increasing number of individuals achieving remarkable longevity. As we learn more about the factors that contribute to long and healthy lives, we can hope to apply this knowledge to improve the well-being and longevity of future generations. Tomiko Itooka’s life serves as an inspiring example of a life well-lived and a testament to the remarkable resilience and adaptability of the human spirit.
