Tomiko Itooka: A Life of Resilience Ends at 116

Tomiko Itooka's remarkable journey through history and her enduring spirit have inspired many, culminating in her recent passing at the impressive age of 116.

Tomiko Itooka, revered as the world's oldest person, has passed away at the age of 116 in a nursing home located in Ashiya, Hyogo Prefecture. Her obituary marks a poignant end to a life that spanned across a century of significant global changes, including two world wars and numerous technological advancements. Born in May 1908, Ms. Itooka celebrated her 116th birthday on May 23, 2024, before her recent death.

The title of the world’s oldest individual shifted to Brazilian nun Inah Canabarro Lucas, now believed to hold that distinction following Ms. Itooka's passing after the previous record-holder, Spain’s Maria Branyas Morera, died in August 2024 at the age of 117. Mayor Ryosuke Takashima of Ashiya paid tribute to her, stating, "Ms. Itooka gave us courage and hope through her long life. We thank her for it."

Her illustrious life began before the tumult of the First World War, coinciding with the launch of the iconic Ford Model T. Memorable moments of Ms. Itooka's life include her successful summit of Mount Ontake twice during her youth and her love for simple pleasures such as bananas and the Japanese milky soft drink, Calpis, in her later years. A dedicated family woman, she married at 20 and raised two daughters and two sons, while also managing her husband’s textile factory during World War II.

Despite the losses she faced—her husband passed away in 1979—Ms. Itooka continued to live independently in Nara until her later years. She is survived by one son, one daughter, and five grandchildren. A heartfelt funeral service was held, celebrating her impactful legacy.

As a reflection of Japan’s aging population, more than 95,000 citizens aged 100 or older were recorded in September 2024, with 88% being women. Nearly one-third of Japan's 124 million residents are now classified as aged 65 or older, emphasizing the country’s significant demographic shifts in recent years.