World's oldest person dies at age 116

(CLO) Tomiko Itakeoka, who was recognized by Guinness World Records as the world's oldest person in September 2024, has passed away at a nursing home in Ashiya City, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan.

According to information from the Japanese Ministry of Health and local authorities, she passed away of old age at 9:03 PM on Sunday, December 29, 2024, at the age of 116.

Ms. Tomiko Itakeoka. Photo: Ashiya City

Born on May 23, 1908, in Osaka, Itakeoka was the eldest of three siblings. Her life spanned many significant historical events, from World War I and World War II to the period when Japan became one of the world's leading economies .

She spent most of her life in Ashiya, a coastal city in Hyogo Prefecture. In her later years, she resided in a nursing home for the elderly there.

In December 2023, Ms. Itakeoka was recognized as the oldest person in Japan after the death of Fusa Tatsumi, 116, a resident of Kashiwara City, Osaka Prefecture.

In September 2024, she was officially recognized by Guinness as the world's oldest living person, succeeding Maria Branyas Morera, 117, from Olot, Catalonia, Spain, who had passed away earlier.

The passing of Mrs. Itakeoka marks a historic milestone in Japan's elderly community, a country renowned for having one of the highest average life expectancies in the world. Local authorities and family say she lived a simple life, cherished traditional values, and received attentive care in her final years.

Beyond her personal achievements, Itakeoka is also a symbol of resilience and longevity, reflecting Japan's healthy lifestyle and distinctive nutritional practices.

The city authorities have extended their deepest condolences to her family and loved ones. She leaves behind a legacy not only of longevity but also of inspiration for generations about the value of life.

Ngoc Anh (according to Japan Times, Bangkok Post)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/nguoi-gia-nhat-the-gioi-qua-doi-o-tuoi-116-post328971.html