Meet the World's Reigning Supercentenarian: Ethel Caterham
As of September 2025, the title of the world's oldest living person is held by Ethel Caterham of the United Kingdom. Born on August 21, 1909, she has lived an incredible 116 years. She inherited the title following the passing of Brazil's Inah Canabarro Lucas in April 2025, who was just two months shy of her 117th birthday.
Ethel's life has spanned monumental historical events, from the dawn of World War I to the digital age. Born in Hampshire, England, she embarked on a life of travel early on, moving to British India at 18 to work as a nanny. It was there she met her husband, Major Norman Caterham. Her journey also took her to Gibraltar and Hong Kong, where she established a nursery school. Now residing in Surrey, England, she has outlived her husband by nearly five decades. When asked about her secret to a long life, she has shared simple yet profound advice: "never argue with anyone" and "say yes to every opportunity."
The Gold Standard: How Is the Oldest Person's Age Verified?
Claiming to be the oldest person is one thing; proving it is another. The responsibility for validating these extraordinary lifespans falls to organizations like the Gerontology Research Group (GRG) and Guinness World Records. The process is meticulous and evidence-based to prevent fraud or errors.
Key components of verification include:
- Primary Documentation: A valid birth certificate issued at or near the time of birth is the cornerstone of any claim.
- Corroborating Evidence: Researchers build a paper trail across the person's life. This can include census records, baptismal certificates, marriage licenses, school records, and military service documents.
- Identity Confirmation: The documents must unequivocally link to the individual making the claim, leaving no room for doubt about their identity.
- Proof of Life: For living claimants, confirmation of their current status is, of course, essential.
This rigorous, multi-faceted approach ensures that the title of the world's oldest person is backed by undeniable proof, separating fact from myth.
Lessons from the Longest-Lived: A Historical Perspective
The title of the oldest living person is often held for only a short time, passing from one supercentenarian to another. Before Ethel Caterham, the title was held by Inah Canabarro Lucas (Brazil), and before her, Tomiko Itooka (Japan) and Maria Branyas Morera (Spain). Each of these individuals provides a unique window into the possibilities of human endurance.
The all-time record for the oldest verified person in history belongs to Jeanne Calment of France. She lived to be 122 years and 164 days, from 1875 to 1997. Her life was remarkable not just for its length but also for its vitality. She took up fencing at 85 and was still riding a bicycle at 100. Her longevity secrets were a mix of good genes, a diet rich in olive oil, and an occasional glass of port wine. Famously, she also had a great sense of humor and a low-stress approach to life, once saying, "If you can't do anything about it, don't worry about it."
Comparison of Recent Supercentenarians
| Name | Lifespan | Country | Noted Habit or Philosophy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ethel Caterham | 1909–Present | United Kingdom | Never arguing and saying "yes" to opportunities. |
| Inah Canabarro Lucas | 1908–2025 | Brazil | A life of faith and service as a nun. |
| Tomiko Itooka | 1908–2024 | Japan | An active lifestyle, including climbing mountains. |
| Jeanne Calment | 1875–1997 | France | Low stress, olive oil, and staying physically active. |
What Do Supercentenarians Have in Common?
While every supercentenarian's story is unique, researchers have identified several common themes that may contribute to their extraordinary longevity. These are not guarantees of a long life but offer valuable insights into healthy aging.
- Genetics: A strong genetic predisposition is undeniable. Many supercentenarians have parents or siblings who also lived exceptionally long lives.
- Diet and Moderation: A diet based on whole foods, often plant-centric, is common. Many, like the Okinawan centenarians, practice hara hachi bu—eating only until 80% full. While some enjoyed treats like chocolate or wine, the overarching principle is moderation.
- Physical Activity: A life of constant, low-level physical activity is more common than intense, gym-based exercise. Activities like gardening, walking, and maintaining daily chores keep the body moving well into old age.
- Positive Attitude & Stress Management: A resilient, optimistic outlook is a frequently cited trait. The ability to shed stress and adapt to life's challenges appears crucial.
- Strong Social Connections: Maintaining close bonds with family, friends, and community provides a strong support system and a sense of belonging, which are vital for mental and emotional health.
- A Sense of Purpose: Whether through work, family, hobbies, or faith, having a reason to get up in the morning contributes significantly to a long and fulfilling life.
Conclusion: More Than Just Genes
Reaching the age of 110 and beyond is a rare achievement, likely resulting from a complex interplay of genetics, lifestyle, environment, and attitude. The lives of Ethel Caterham and those who came before her are not just statistical outliers; they are a source of inspiration and knowledge. They teach us that while we cannot control our genes, we can influence our longevity and quality of life through mindful choices, a positive outlook, and staying connected to the world around us. The quest to understand extreme longevity continues, but the core lessons remain simple: live actively, eat wisely, manage stress, and cherish community.
