Japan mourns: Oldest woman in the world dies at 116!
In the obituary of the late Japanese woman Tomiko Itooka, who was 116 years old, the article highlights Japan's demographic challenges.
Japan mourns: Oldest woman in the world dies at 116!
The world has lost a remarkable personality: Tomiko Itooka, the oldest person in the world according to the Guinness Book of Records, has died at the age of 116. Japanese television network NHK reported that Itooka died of old age on December 29, 2024, at a retirement home in Ashiya, Hyogo Prefecture. About 30 years ago she moved from Osaka to Ashiya, where she lived in good health despite her old age. Her death was only recently announced, adding to the sadness of this extraordinary woman.
A life full of courage and hope
Itooka was born on May 23, 1908 in Osaka, the eldest of three siblings. During her long life, she gave a lot of courage and hope not only to her family, but also to many people around her. The mayor of Ashiya paid tribute to her memory and expressed his sincere condolences to the family, saying: “We thank her once again.” Her life story is an inspiring example of the resilience and strength of older generations.
Japan faces a demographic challenge as society ages rapidly. According to recent reports, the country counted a record number of over 95,100 people aged 100 or older in September 2024. This represents the 54th consecutive year that the number of centenarians has increased. This development not only reflects advances in medicine and healthcare, but also raises questions about how to care for an increasingly aging population Pulse24 and Vienna.at report.