Ethel Caterham has become the world’s oldest living woman at the age of 115. According to the Gerontology Research Group, she earned this title following the death of Brazilian nun and teacher Inah Canabarro on Wednesday, who passed away at the age of 116.
When asked about the secret to her long life, Ethel smiled and said,
“I never argue with anyone. I just do what I want.”
Ethel Spent Part of Her Life in India
Ethel Caterham was born on August 21, 1909, in Hampshire, England. She was one of eight siblings, with six older brothers and sisters.
In 1927, at the age of 18, Ethel moved to India, where she worked as a nanny for a British family spent three years there before returning to England.
In 1931, during a dinner party, she met Major Norman Caterham, who was serving in the British Army. The couple later lived in Hong Kong and Gibraltar during his postings. They had two daughters Jem and Anne. Norman passed away in 1976.
“I listen to people, but in the end, I do what I feel like. That’s the secret of my life,” Ethel said.
Ethel Says Positivity Is the Key
Sadly, both of Ethel Caterham’s daughters passed away during her lifetime. Her daughter Jem died in the early 2000s, and Anne succumbed to cancer in February 2020 at the age of 82.
Despite the loss, Ethel remains in good health and spends most of her time sitting in the garden of her care home. In her honor, the garden has been named “Ethel’s Garden.”
Secret of Her Longevity
When asked about the secret to her remarkable longevity, Ethel said,
“Say yes to every opportunity, because you never know what it might bring. Keep a positive attitude and take everything in moderation.”
Ethel now lives at Hallmark Lakeview Luxury Care Home in Camberley. The care home shared photos of her cutting a cake while wearing a “115” crown. Their social media post read, “A huge congratulations on becoming the world’s oldest living woman! This is a remarkable achievement and a testament to a beautiful life.”
The record for the oldest person ever still belongs to Jeanne Calment of France, who lived for 122 years and 164 days.
