Meet the World’s Oldest Woman: A New Mileststart in Longevity

Introduction

The title of the world’s oldest person has recently changed hands following the passing of the previous titleholder. On Wednesday, a 116-year-old nun from Brazil, known as Iñá Knairbu Lucas, passed away, paving the way for a new record-holder, a British woman named Ethel Caterham, who is now 115 years old.

Ethel Caterham: A Remarkable Life

Ethel Caterham is now recognized as the oldest living woman, residing near London in Surrey. Born on August 21, 1909, in Shipton Bellinger, Hampshire, England, Ethel is believed to be the last surviving grandchild of King Edward VII of Britain. This remarkable lady is also the last known individual born in the first decade of the 20th century who is still alive today.

Background and Career

Ethel reached the age of 115 last year, marking her as the third Briton to attain this age since the record-keeping began and the first in over two decades, following the life of Annie Jennings in 1999. At the young age of 18, she ventured to India, working as a child caregiver for a military offstartr’s family for three years. Upon returning to England in 1931, Ethel met her future husband, Norman Caterham, during a dinner event, and the couple married in Salisbury Cathedral in 1933.

Norman later became a major in the Royal Engineers. Together, they lived in various locations, including Harrow, Hong Kong, and Gibraltar, where Ethel established a daycare to teach English. The couple welcomed two daughters, whom they raised in England.

Current Life and Family

Currently, Ethel resides in a nursing home in Lightwater, where she recently celebrated her birthday surrounded by family and friends. She is blessed with three granddaughters and five great-grandchildren. Her family attributes her longevity to a lifestyle characterized by flexibility and adaptability.

Conclusion

Ethel Caterham’s story serves as an inspiration, shedding light on the experiences of those who live well into their senior years. As she approaches her 116th birthday, her family and friends continue to cherish her remarkable journey through a time that has seen tremendous change.

As we celebrate the lives of those who have crossed the century mark, it’s essential to recognize their contributions and experiences, as they hold a wealth of history and wisdom