World’s oldest person reveals the secret to living longer as she celebrates her 116th birthday
The world’s oldest woman is celebrating her 116th birthday today (21 August).
Ethel Caterham was born on 21 August 1909 and is the world's oldest living person, as well as the oldest person in the UK.
She was initiated as the world's oldest person by the Guinness World Records after the death of Brazilian nun Inah Canabarro Lucas on 30 April 2025, at the age of 116.
According to the BBC, Ethel has quite a life, having been born three years before the sinking of the Titanic, eight years before the Russian Revolution, and having lived through two world wars.
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Now, she is a beloved grandmother of three and a great-grandmother of five, and she lives in Surrey, England, in a care home managed by Hallmark Luxury Care Homes.
They shared a statement on her behalf with Good Morning America: "Good Morning America. Ethel and her family are so grateful for all of the kind messages and interest shown to her as she celebrates her 116th birthday this year.
"Ethel has again chosen not to give any interviews, preferring to spend the day quietly with her family so that she can enjoy it at her own pace. The King may be her one concession, understandably! Thank you again for your kind wishes on this special day."
As for the Guinness World Records, they sent out a birthday message for her, writing: "Guinness World Records wishes Ethel Caterham a happy birthday! We honor her record-breaking life thus far and wish her the best as she turns 116."
Having lived to 116 and counting, Ethel’s secret to longevity is something that might shock you.
We’ve had people in the past say that their diets, relationships and ethos in life have all contributed to their long life.
However, Ethel previously told The Associated Press in May that the secret to her long life has been to smile and nod at those around her. Or more plainly, to take an agreeable approach, even if you don’t agree at all.
"Never arguing with anyone, I listen and I do what I like," Caterham said at the time.
She also once spoke to the Salisbury Journal in 2011 about her way of life, detailing that one needs to be prepared for anything.
Her life included travels to India, Hong Kong and Gibraltar with her late husband Norman, surviving COVID-19 at age 110 and continued to drive until nearly 100, and she credits family, moderation and saying yes to opportunities.
She said: "Say yes to every opportunity because you never know what it will lead to. Have a positive mental attitude and have everything in moderation."
Britt Jones