What's happened
Tomiko Itooka, a 116-year-old woman from Japan, is set to be recognized as the world's oldest person by Guinness World Records following the death of 117-year-old Maria Branyas Morera. Itooka, born on May 23, 1908, has a history of mountaineering and continues to inspire with her remarkable longevity.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Independent, Tomiko Itooka is set to be named the world's oldest person after the death of Maria Branyas Morera, who passed away at 117. The article notes that Itooka has enjoyed climbing throughout her life, even surprising guides with her choice of footwear during hikes. Al Jazeera emphasizes the historical context of Itooka's birth year, linking it to significant events like the Wright Brothers' flights. Both sources highlight Itooka's active lifestyle, which contrasts with the challenges faced by the previous record holder, Branyas, who lived through numerous historical events and survived COVID-19 at age 113. This juxtaposition illustrates the varying experiences of longevity across generations.
How we got here
The announcement comes after the passing of Maria Branyas Morera, who held the title of the world's oldest person. Itooka's age was confirmed by the Gerontology Research Group, which tracks supercentenarians globally.
Common question
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What is the legacy of Maria Branyas, the world's oldest person?
Maria Branyas Morera, who passed away at the age of 117, lived a remarkable life filled with historical significance. Her experiences span over a century, witnessing major global events and societal changes. This page explores her life story, the lessons we can learn from her longevity, and the new oldest living person following her passing.
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