The world has lost its oldest verified person, as Japanese supercentenarian Tomiko Itooka passed away at the age of 116. She had become an iconic symbol of longevity and resilience, living through the changing tides of the 20th and 21st centuries. Her death, confirmed on January 4, 2025, came just days after she passed away at a retirement home in Ashiya, located in the southern Hyogo prefecture, on December 29, 2024.
Tomiko Itooka was born on May 23, 1908, and had lived through two World Wars, the rise and fall of empires, and the rapid development of modern technologies. Despite the hardships of her long life, she remained a symbol of strength and grace to many around the globe. Her passing has evoked a wave of tributes and reflections on her extraordinary life.
“Her ability to live independently at 116 was nothing short of remarkable,” said a family spokesperson who wished to remain anonymous. “She was a model of resilience and determination, and we are deeply saddened by her loss.”
A Long Life Marked by Change
Tomiko Itooka’s long life was marked by monumental changes in Japan and the world. Growing up in the early 20th century, she witnessed Japan’s rise as a global power, its involvement in World War II, and its post-war economic boom. She married Kenji Itooka in 1928, and together they managed his textile factory. When her husband passed away in 1979, Tomiko chose to live independently for many years, a decision that reflected her strong character.
Her later years were spent with her two daughters, with whom she moved in 1989. Although Itooka’s physical health began to decline with age, she maintained a remarkable independence for much of her life. She was known for her ability to move around despite her reliance on a wheelchair, and she remained mentally sharp and alert until her final days.
Her passing marks the end of an era for those who looked up to her as an example of longevity and independence.
Japan’s Legacy of Longevity
Tomiko Itooka’s death comes less than five months after Maria Branyas, who had been the world’s oldest verified person until her death in August 2024. Prior to Branyas’ passing, Itooka became the world’s oldest verified living person, a title she held for several months. Her status as the oldest living person in Japan was also a point of national pride, following the death of Fusa Tatsumi in December 2023.
Japan has long been a country known for its aging population and high number of centenarians. According to the latest reports from the Japanese government, there are over 90,000 centenarians living in the country today, a statistic that has prompted much attention on the nation’s healthcare and social systems. The Japanese lifestyle, diet, and healthcare system are often credited with contributing to the country’s high longevity rates.
Tributes Pour In
The news of Itooka’s passing was met with an outpouring of tributes from around the world. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida expressed his condolences, calling Itooka “a symbol of the resilience and spirit of the Japanese people.” He added, “Her life has been an inspiration to many, and her legacy will live on.”
“I often thought of her as a beacon of hope for everyone who seeks to live a long, fulfilling life,” said Dr. Haruki Tanaka, a prominent geriatrician based in Tokyo. “Her passing is a reminder of the fragility of life, but also of the possibilities for human longevity. We must continue to study what made her life so extraordinary.”
Local news outlets in Japan shared stories of her final years, describing her as a woman who lived with grace and dignity. Her family, while mourning her loss, expressed pride in her legacy. “We are all so proud of the way she lived her life,” her daughter stated in an emotional tribute.
The Science Behind Longevity
Tomiko Itooka’s life has fascinated scientists, particularly those who study aging and longevity. Japan’s long-standing interest in longevity has spurred research into the factors that contribute to extended lifespans. Experts point to the nation’s healthy diet, which includes fish, rice, and vegetables, as well as its healthcare system, which emphasizes preventive care and longevity.
While there is no definitive formula for reaching 116 years of age, experts believe a combination of genetics, environment, and lifestyle choices played a crucial role in Itooka’s remarkable longevity. Studies suggest that Japanese people, particularly in rural areas, maintain strong social connections and live relatively low-stress lives, both of which may contribute to their extended lifespans.
Tomiko’s story has also highlighted the importance of mental health, with many commenting on her sharpness and active involvement in family and community life up until her death.
An End to an Extraordinary Life
While the world may never fully understand how Tomiko Itooka defied the odds to live for more than a century, her life remains a testament to human endurance and strength. From surviving two World Wars to witnessing the rise of technological innovations like smartphones and the internet, Itooka’s life is a history lesson wrapped in the personal story of an extraordinary woman.
Her death is not just the loss of the world’s oldest person, but a reminder of the fleeting nature of time and the importance of living each day to its fullest.
