A living link to the 20th century
As of late September 2025, the question "Is anyone from 1909 still alive?" has a clear and remarkable answer: Yes. Ethel May Caterham, a British supercentenarian born on August 21, 1909, holds the distinction of being the last verified individual from that year. Her lifespan bridges the gap from the Edwardian era to the modern day, making her a unique living connection to over a century of history. Her validation as the world's oldest living person on April 30, 2025, after the passing of Brazilian nun Inah Canabarro Lucas, placed her in a spotlight of global fascination.
To put her age into perspective, when Ethel Caterham was born, the world was a vastly different place. The first animated film was yet to be made, the first World War was five years away, and the average life expectancy was a fraction of what it is today. Her journey has spanned immense societal and technological changes, from traveling to British India as an au pair in the 1920s to meeting King Charles III in 2025. Her life story highlights the incredible advancements in medicine and living standards that have made such extreme longevity possible for a select few.
The exceptional world of supercentenarians
Supercentenarians, or individuals who live to 110 years or older, are an extremely rare demographic. Their longevity is the subject of intense study by organizations like the Gerontology Research Group (GRG) and LongeviQuest, which carefully validate age claims. While anecdotal stories of long life exist, only verifiable records are counted, which is why figures like Ethel Caterham and the former record holder, Jeanne Calment, are so significant.
Factors contributing to supercentenarian longevity are a mix of genetics, lifestyle, and a bit of luck. Researchers often find that these individuals have a strong genetic predisposition for longevity and have lived lives that, while not without hardship, were often characterized by moderation and resilience. Ethel Caterham's story includes surviving COVID-19 at the age of 110 and living a life that was active and engaged. She is also reported to have a family history of longevity, with one of her sisters living to 104.
Comparison: Notable 1909 supercentenarians
Ethel Caterham is not the only individual born in 1909 to reach remarkable milestones, though she is the last surviving. Her journey can be compared with other validated supercentenarians from the same birth year.
| Feature | Ethel Caterham (United Kingdom) | Juan Vicente Pérez Mora (Venezuela) | Elizabeth Francis (United States) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Birthdate | August 21, 1909 | May 27, 1909 | July 25, 1909 |
| Status (as of Sep 2025) | Living | Deceased (April 2, 2024) | Deceased (October 22, 2024) |
| Age at death/present | 116+ years old | 114 years, 311 days | 115 years, 89 days |
| Distinction | Last surviving person born in the 1900s decade and oldest living person in the world. | Formerly the world's oldest living man. | One of the oldest Americans and lived to 115. |
| Reported Secrets to Longevity | Unspecified, but known for a resilient and engaged lifestyle. | Hard work, prayer, and a daily glass of aguardiente. | Faith and family. |
The science behind longevity
For many, the stories of people like Ethel Caterham spark a broader question about the limits of the human lifespan. While genetics play a significant role, the science of gerontology points to a combination of factors. Telomere length, which is the cap at the end of chromosomes, is often cited as a marker for biological aging, and supercentenarians tend to have less shortening of telomeres. Other research, including a study on the late María Branyas Morera, indicated that her genes were protective against DNA damage and her cells aged more slowly than her chronological age. Lifestyle, including diet and stress management, also plays a critical role, but the rarity of supercentenarians confirms that extraordinary longevity is not just about healthy habits. It is a complex puzzle where genetics, environment, and pure chance align perfectly.
Life in the public eye
As the last survivor of her cohort, Ethel Caterham has garnered significant public attention. Her 116th birthday celebrations and meeting with King Charles III brought her life story to the forefront of global news. This attention, while sometimes overwhelming, serves as a powerful reminder of the deep connections people hold to the past. These supercentenarians are not just record-holders; they are a living archive of a past world, and their memories and experiences represent an invaluable resource for historians and a source of inspiration for many.
Conclusion
In answer to the question, "Is anyone from 1909 still alive?" the definitive answer is yes, with British supercentenarian Ethel Caterham being the last verified survivor. Her ongoing longevity, at 116 years old as of September 2025, positions her not only as the world's oldest living person but also as a powerful symbol of human resilience and endurance. While the number of individuals reaching such an extreme age is vanishingly small, the stories of people like Ethel Caterham, Juan Vicente Pérez Mora, and Elizabeth Francis provide a tangible link to a bygone era and continue to fascinate scientists and the public alike. Their lives serve as both a testament to human potential and a subject of important research into the mysteries of aging. To learn more about the scientific research behind exceptional longevity, you can consult organizations like the Gerontology Research Group.
