Japan Broadcasting Corporation (NHK) reported on Saturday (January 4th) that the oldest supercentenarian in Japan, as well as the oldest person in the world, Toshiko Itooka, passed away on December 29, 2024, at the remarkable age of 116 due to old age.
Toshiko Itooka was born on May 23, 1908, in Osaka City and later moved to Awa City in Hyogo Prefecture. The Awa City government stated that Toshiko had been living a healthy life in a senior facility in the city, but passed away on December 29 last year at the age of 116 due to old age.
During her lifetime, Toshiko was the oldest person in all of Japan. A research team from the United States that continuously investigates longevity determined that after the passing of a 117-year-old woman in Spain in August 2024, Toshiko was considered to be the oldest person in the world.
The Mayor of Awa City, Ryouosuke Takashima, expressed heartfelt condolences on the passing of Toshiko Itooka, the world’s oldest person, stating, “Throughout her long life, Toshiko gave us immense courage and hope. Besides expressing gratitude once again, I also offer sincere condolences to her family and loved ones.”
The Awa City government previously disclosed that Toshiko was born in Osaka City, then moved to Nara Prefecture, and in 1990 relocated to her current residence in Awa City, where she lived in a special elderly care center within the city. Toshiko’s favorite beverages were lactic acid bacteria drink and bananas.
(translated from Central News Agency)