Ethel Caterham, born August 21, 1909 in Hampshire, England, has been officially recognised by Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest living person at 116. This follows the passing of Brazilian nun Sister Inah Canabarro earlier this year.
Her life has spanned two world wars, six monarchs in the UK and 27 prime ministers. From the Edwardian era to the rise of artificial intelligence, Caterham has seen it all.
Her Secret to a Long Life
Unlike most longevity stories tied to strict diets or exercise routines, Caterham’s approach is refreshingly simple. “Never argue with anyone, I listen and I do what I like,” she told the Associated Press.
She credits this philosophy of being agreeable and stress-free for keeping her mentally calm and physically strong. Medical experts warn of the damage stress can do to the body and Caterham’s approach to avoiding conflict seems to back that up. She has also talked about moderation and being open-minded.
A Life Across Continents
Caterham’s journey has taken her far beyond her Hampshire village. At 18 she left for India in 1927 to be a nanny – a bold move for a young woman in those days. Three years later she returned to England and met her husband Norman, a British Army major. His postings took them to Hong Kong and Gibraltar where Caterham even opened a nursery to teach children English and crafts.
They later returned to the UK and had two daughters, Gem and Anne, both of whom have now passed away. Norman died in 1976. Today Caterham is a grandmother of three and great grandmother of five. Her sister Gladys Babilas lived to 104 so longevity runs in the family.
In 2020 she survived Covid-19 at 111. Now living in a care home in Surrey, Caterham is surrounded by family and loved ones. On her 116th birthday she received global tributes including one from Guinness World Records. Hallmark Lakeview Luxury Care Home described her as “a true testament to strength, spirit and wisdom.”
While Jeanne Calment of France holds the record for the longest verified lifespan at 122, Caterham’s calm outlook and resilience inspires those who believe life is not just about numbers but about the choices that nurture well-being.