British man John Tinniswood has recently broken the Guinness World Record to become the current oldest living man in the world. Celebrating his 112th birthday on August 26th this year, Tinniswood claims to have no special longevity secrets and does not follow a strict diet, enjoying a portion of fish and chips each week.
Tinniswood was born on August 26, 1912 in Liverpool, UK. This was the year the British liner Titanic sank and Arizona became a state in the United States. In April this year, after the passing of 114-year-old Venezuelan Juan Vicente Pérez Mora, Tinniswood was officially recognized as the world’s oldest living man.
Residing in a nursing home in Southport, Tinniswood celebrated his 112th birthday on August 26th surrounded by friends and family. When asked how it feels to reach the age of 112, he nonchalantly responded, “To be honest, it feels no different. I don’t feel that age, I’m not excited about it. That might be the reason I’ve reached this age. Just like anything else, I take it in stride.”
Tinniswood mentioned that besides indulging in his weekly fish and chips, he doesn’t follow any specific dietary habits. His primary advice for maintaining health is moderation. Despite his advanced age, Tinniswood is able to carry out many daily tasks independently, manages his own finances, and stays updated on global politics via broadcasts.
Mentally, he feels much younger than his actual age. When asked if keeping his mind active is the secret to his longevity, he chuckled and replied, “I’m not 112 yet.” Throughout his life, Tinniswood has witnessed many significant events, including numerous wars. In fact, he is the oldest surviving male World War II veteran in the world. He served in the British Army in an administrative position in the payroll department.
Reflecting on the changes the world has undergone during his lifetime, Tinniswood expressed that the world has not necessarily become better, and in some aspects, it may have worsened. He noted the shrinking of the world due to modern travel, primarily driven by advancements in aviation, but beyond that, he couldn’t pinpoint many reasons for the significant differences.
Tinniswood’s wife passed away in 1986, leaving behind a daughter who gave him 4 grandchildren. He now has 3 great-grandchildren. Since turning 100 in 2012, Tinniswood receives birthday wishes from the British royal family each year.
The oldest living man in recorded human history is Jiroemon Kimura from Japan, who passed away in 2013 at the age of 116. Tinniswood would need to live several more years to surpass Kimura’s record. The current oldest living woman in the world is 116-year-old Tomiko Itooka from Japan. Following the recent passing of Maria Branyas Morera, the previous record holder at 117, Itooka inherited the title.