World’s Oldest Person, Tomiko Itooka, Dies at 116 in Japan

Tomiko Itooka, recognized as the world’s oldest person, has passed away at the age of 116, the city of Ashiya announced on Saturday.

Itooka, who resided in a nursing home since 2019, died on December 29. Born on May 23, 1908, in Osaka, she lived through significant historical events, including two world wars and multiple pandemics, as well as witnessing transformative technological advancements.

Ashiya Mayor Ryosuke Takashima, 27, expressed gratitude for her legacy in a statement: “Ms. Itooka gave us courage and hope through her long life. We thank her for it.”

Itooka, one of three siblings, was known for her love of bananas and Calpis, a popular Japanese milky soft drink. In her youth, she played volleyball and led an active life.

She became the world’s oldest person following the death of Spain’s Maria Branyas Morera at age 117 in August 2024.

Japan, known for its longevity, is home to over 95,000 centenarians as of September, with women comprising 88 percent of this demographic. However, the nation faces a demographic crisis, with nearly a third of its 124 million people aged 65 or older, straining medical and welfare systems amid a shrinking workforce.

Itooka is survived by her four children and five grandchildren.