LONDON — For Ethel Caterham, the secret to a prolonged life comes down to maintaining serenity, a philosophy she has adhered to throughout her impressive lifespan. Now 115 years old, Caterham has been recognized as the world’s oldest living person following the passing of Sister Inah Canabarro, a Brazilian nun and teacher who lived to the age of 116.
According to the Gerontology Research Group, Caterham, residing in a nursing home in Surrey, southwest of London, believes avoiding conflicts has contributed significantly to her longevity. “I never argue with anyone, I just listen and go about my way,” she revealed, sharing a glimpse into her approach to life.
Born on August 21, 1909, in the small village of Shipton Bellinger, nestled in southern England, Caterham was the penultimate child in a family of eight siblings. Her life narrative is colored with travel and adventure. In 1927, at the tender age of 18, she set forth on a voyage to India, where she worked as a nanny for a British family. Her stay in India lasted three years before she returned to her homeland, as detailed by the Gerontology Research Group.
During a dinner gala in 1931, fate introduced her to Norman, a major in the British army. The couple experienced life together stationed in Hong Kong and Gibraltar. They eventually settled in the U.K. to raise their two daughters. Norman passed away in 1976, leaving behind cherished memories of their life together.
To honor Caterham’s remarkable milestone, Hallmark Lakeview Luxury Care Home in Camberley, where she currently resides, shared photos of her celebrating with a cake and appearing joyful in a “115” tiara on their Facebook page. “Huge congratulations to Lakeview resident, Ethel, on becoming the oldest person in the world! What an incredible milestone and a true testament to a life well-lived,” read the statement accompanying the post. “Your strength, spirit, and wisdom are an inspiration to us all. Here’s to celebrating your remarkable journey!”
The title of the oldest person ever recorded remains with Jeanne Calment of France, who reached an astonishing age of 122 years and 164 days, as confirmed by Guinness World Records.