A woman recognized as the world’s oldest living person has revealed what she believes is the key to her long life.
Ethel Caterham, born in 1909, celebrated her 116th birthday in 2025. The year prior, while marking her 115th, she humorously remarked about not understanding the commotion surrounding her age.
During that 115th birthday celebration, Ethel received a congratulatory letter from King Charles, acknowledging her ‘truly remarkable milestone’ and extending his ‘warmest good wishes’.
Following the passing of Brazilian nun Sister Inah Canabarro Lucas earlier this year, Ethel, residing in a care facility in Lightwater, Surrey, was named the oldest person alive.
This status has been officially verified by the Guinness World Records and LongeviQuest, a global database tracking the oldest individuals worldwide.
With her extensive lifespan, Ethel has shared her insight into what has contributed to her longevity.
She attributes her long life to ‘never arguing with anyone, I listen and I do what I like’.
In addition to being the oldest living person, Ethel is also noted for being among the oldest survivors of Covid-19.
In 2020, at the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, Ethel contracted the virus, which posed a significant risk to the elderly. Despite being 110 at the time, she recovered and has since achieved this extraordinary milestone.
Mark McKinley, director of records at Guinness World Records, discussed with the BBC their intentions to meet Ethel.
He stated, “Ethel never set out to be a record breaker. But we’re hoping to meet her some time soon and present her with her certificate.”
Born on August 21, 1909, in Shipton Bellinger, Hampshire, Ethel grew up in Tidworth, Wiltshire, as the second youngest of eight siblings.
This makes her the last known person to have lived under the reign of Edward VII, Queen Victoria’s eldest son, who passed away in 1910.
At 18, Ethel took a position as an au pair for a family in India.
In 1933, she wed Norman Caterham at Salisbury Cathedral and now has three granddaughters and five great-grandchildren.
Longevity seems to be a family trait, as Ethel’s sister Gladys lived to 104.
Throughout her life, Ethel has witnessed significant historical events, including the sinking of the Titanic, both world wars, the first moon landing, the fall of the Berlin Wall, the invention of the internet, the iPhone, and the advent of TikTok.
A representative from Hallmark Lakeview Luxury Care Home, where Ethel resides, commented: “What an incredible milestone and a true testament to a life well-lived.
“Your strength, spirit, and wisdom are an inspiration to us all. Here’s to celebrating your remarkable journey.”