World mourns Inah Canabarro Lucas: 116 years full of life!

World mourns Inah Canabarro Lucas: 116 years full of life!

Inah Canabarro Lucas, the oldest living person in the world, died on April 30, 2025 at the age of 116. Her order in Porto Alegre, Brazil, announced the sad news on Wednesday local time. Lucas, who held the title of oldest living person since December 2024, survived her predecessor, Japanese Tomiko Itooka, who died on December 29, 2024.

Inah Canabarro Lucas was born on June 8, 1908 and was a well-known nun. Her extraordinary life story began at a time when the world was very different. During her childhood she was considered delicate and fragile, but grew into a strong woman who dedicated her life to God. She worked as a teacher of Portuguese and mathematics and stood out for her spirituality and compassion.

A legacy of longevity

Lucas was not only the oldest living nun, but also the oldest living person in South America. Her commitment to her faith and community was admirable. At the age of 110, she was blessed by Pope Francis, which attracted widespread attention in Brazil. Her interest in sports was also noticeable: she was a fan of the Porto Alegre football club Sport Club Internacional, which honored her legacy on the X platform.

The loss of Inah Canabarro Lucas marks an important moment in human history as she was considered a role model by many. Their way of life and belief in a quiet life without strife are essential parts of their philosophy, as shown by the example of the new oldest living person, 115-year-old Briton Ethel Caterham. After Lucas' death, she was chosen as the oldest living person and was born on August 21, 1909.

A look into the future of longevity

Age researchers are skeptical about whether people can live past the age of 120. Historically, Jeanne Calment of France was the oldest person whose age is not in doubt, at 122 years and 164 days. Their lifestyle and family history of longevity are often cited as factors in their exceptional lifespan.

As large parts of the world, such as Japan, where around a third of the population is over 65, are adjusting to an aging society, the question remains how much influence lifestyle and environment have on longevity. The stories of people like Inah Canabarro Lucas, who despite all odds lived to old age, give cause for hope and inspire future generations.

According to the Gerontology Research Group, Ethel Caterham is now the oldest living person in the world, while the life's work of Inah Canabarro Lucas will be remembered. She leaves a legacy of spirituality and compassion that is especially valuable in today's fast-paced world.

For more information about the life of Inah Canabarro Lucas and her role as the oldest known person in the world, read more at vol.at, rtl.de and dw.com.