Tomiko Itooka confirmed as world’s oldest person after Morera’s death

Tomiko Itooka, born on May 23, 1908, in Osaka City, Japan, has been confirmed as the world's oldest living person following the death of Maria Branyas Morera. At 116 years old, she has lived a remarkable life, raising two daughters and two sons while managing her husband's textile factory during the war. After her husband's passing in 1979, she continued to live independently in Nara Prefecture. Despite her advanced age, Itooka has maintained an active lifestyle, enjoying mountain climbing well into her second century. Notably, she climbed the long stone steps of Ashiya Shrine at the age of 100 without assistance. Her resilience and vitality have made her a symbol of longevity and strength. On December 12, 2023, she became the oldest living person in Japan after the death of another centenarian, Fusa Tatsumi. This transition highlights the ongoing phenomenon of increasing life expectancy and the remarkable stories of those who reach such advanced ages. LongeviQuest, an organization dedicated to researching longevity, confirmed her status and celebrated her 116th birthday with a gathering that included representatives from the organization. This recognition not only honors Itooka's life but also contributes to the broader understanding of aging and longevity in society.