World's Oldest Person Dies at 116

Sunday, 05 January, 2025201 words3 minutes
Guinness World Records has announced the passing of Tomiko Itooka, the world's oldest person, at the remarkable age of 116. Itooka died on December 29 at a care facility in Ashiya, located in Japan's Hyogo Prefecture.
Born on May 23, 1908, Itooka was renowned for her longevity and her fondness for bananas and Calpis, a yogurt-flavored Japanese beverage. She ascended to the title of world's oldest person following the death of 117-year-old Maria Branyas, as confirmed by the Gerontology Research Group. Upon being informed of her status atop the World Supercentenarian Rankings List, Itooka responded with characteristic modesty, simply saying, "Thank you."
Itooka's life was marked by vitality and resilience. In her youth, she was a volleyball player, and she twice conquered Mount Ontake, which stands at an impressive 10,062 feet. During World War II, she demonstrated her adaptability by managing her husband's textile factory. After her husband's passing in 1979, Itooka lived independently in Nara for many years.
Her legacy extends beyond her longevity; Itooka is survived by one son, one daughter, and five grandchildren. With her passing, the title of world's oldest person now belongs to Inah Canabarro Lucas, a 116-year-old Brazilian nun born just 16 days after Itooka.
Original News
World's Oldest Person Dies at 116

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Words

  • remarkable
  • longevity
  • ascended
  • vitality
  • resilience

Quiz

  1. 1. What organization confirmed Tomiko Itooka's status as the world's oldest person?

  2. 2. How did Itooka demonstrate her adaptability during World War II?

  3. 3. Who has now become the world's oldest person following Itooka's passing?