Surrey Care Home Resident Celebrates Historic 116th Birthday as World’s Oldest Living Person
A remarkable milestone has been reached at a Surrey care facility as resident Ethel Caterham marks her 116th birthday, maintaining her status as the world’s oldest living person.
Ms Caterham, who resides at Hallmark Lakeview Luxury Care Home, achieved the distinguished title of world’s oldest person earlier this year when she was 115 years and 252 days old, according to verification by LongeviQuest, the international organisation that tracks supercentenarians.
The extraordinary centenarian was born on 21st August 1909, making her a living witness to more than a century of British history. Her remarkable lifespan encompasses the reigns of five monarchs, beginning as a subject of King Edward VII. She has experienced the sinking of the Titanic in 1912, the Russian Revolution of 1917, and survived both World Wars.
Last year, on reaching her 115th birthday, Ms Caterham received personal correspondence from His Majesty the King, acknowledging her achievement as a “truly remarkable milestone.” This royal recognition highlights the extraordinary nature of her longevity.
Ms Caterham assumed the world record following the passing of Brazilian nun Inah Canabarro Lucas. When initially informed of her new status, the modest supercentenarian reportedly expressed bewilderment at the attention, questioning why there was such excitement surrounding the achievement.
The world’s oldest person has previously shared insights into her approach to life that may have contributed to her exceptional longevity. In past interviews, she has emphasised taking life’s challenges and successes in equal measure, maintaining a philosophy of avoiding confrontation with others.
Her personal motto appears to centre on selective listening whilst maintaining personal autonomy. Additionally, she advocates embracing opportunities as they arise, maintaining an optimistic outlook, and practising moderation in all aspects of life.
Born in Shipton Bellinger, Hampshire, Ms Caterham came from a large family as the second youngest of eight siblings. Longevity appears to run in the family – her older sister Gladys lived to the impressive age of 104 years and 78 days before passing away in March 2002.
Notably, Ms Caterham holds the distinction of being the youngest person to achieve the title of world’s oldest woman in the past twelve years, highlighting the rarity of such extreme longevity.
Representatives from Hallmark Lakeview Luxury Care Home have expressed their honour at caring for such a remarkable resident. A spokesperson described the milestone as an incredible achievement and testament to a life well-lived, praising Ms Caterham’s strength, spirit and wisdom as inspirational to all who know her.
For her 116th birthday celebration, the care home has ensured a quiet, family-focused day that allows Ms Caterham to enjoy the occasion at her own comfortable pace. The facility has expressed gratitude for the numerous kind messages and widespread interest in their celebrated resident.
