The world’s oldest living person just turned 116—and her advice is beautifully simple
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Imagine living through two world wars, the invention of television, the moon landing, and the rise of smartphones—and still waking up with a smile at age 116.
That’s the story of Ethel Caterham, a quiet but extraordinary great-grandmother from England who recently became the world’s oldest living person.
Her long life has spanned three centuries, countless historic moments, and more than a few personal milestones.
And while she’s not one to seek the spotlight, her story offers a heartfelt reminder about aging with grace, humor, and perspective.
Let’s take a closer look at Ethel’s life and the gentle wisdom that has carried her through it all.
A life that began before World War I
Ethel Caterham was born on August 21, 1909, in the village of Shipton Bellinger in southwest England—five years before the outbreak of the First World War.
She was born under the reign of King Edward VII, and as of 2025, is believed to be the last living subject of his monarchy.
Over the decades, she’s witnessed the world shift from horse-drawn carriages to high-speed trains, rotary phones to video calls, and handwritten letters to text messages.
A quiet birthday, a remarkable milestone
Ethel celebrated her 116th birthday in a care home in Surrey, just outside London.
The staff at Hallmark Care Homes described the day as peaceful and joyful, with Ethel spending it “at her own pace” and surrounded by family.
She even received a message from King Charles III, who also sent her a letter for her 115th birthday.
While she typically declines interviews, she may have made an exception for a royal birthday greeting.
Also read: An unexpected journey: the tragic story behind a man transporting his deceased mother’s body
Her secret to a long life? Keep it simple
Ethel’s advice for longevity is refreshingly down-to-earth: “Never argue with anyone. I listen and I do what I like.”
Her family describes her as calm, resilient, and warm-hearted—traits that have likely helped her weather many of life’s storms.
Even after losing her husband Norman in 1976 and outliving her two daughters, she has remained a strong and steady presence for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Health setbacks didn’t hold her back
Ethel was still driving just before turning 100, and she played bridge well into her later years.
Even a COVID-19 infection at age 110 couldn’t stop her—she recovered fully and continued living life with the same quiet determination.
Her story reminds us that strength can come in many forms, including a calm spirit and an optimistic attitude.
Also read: 101 and fabulous! Meet the glamorous grandma taking over the internet
Now officially the world’s oldest living person
Ethel inherited the title after the passing of Brazilian nun Maria Branyas Morera.
Her age has been verified by multiple longevity tracking organizations, including Guinness World Records and the Gerontology Research Group.
Though she’s still several years away from breaking the all-time record of Jeanne Calment, who lived to 122, Ethel’s place in history is already secured.
Also read: Can your fingernails tell you how long you’ll live? Here’s what this top longevity doctor says about it.
What we can learn from Ethel’s outlook
Ethel’s legacy goes far beyond her age.
She’s lived through the Spanish flu, the Great Depression, post-war rebuilding, and the digital age.
And through it all, she’s kept her focus on kindness, family, and staying true to herself.
It’s not flashy advice—but it may just be the kind we all need.
Also read: Unlock the secret to longevity: Eat like the natives of this tropical locale and live past 90!
The science of longevity backs her up
Researchers who study supercentenarians often cite a few common habits that echo Ethel’s lifestyle:
Ethel Caterham’s story reminds us that a long life isn’t only about living longer—it’s about living well.
Read next: Want to live to 100? This affordable snack recommended by a longevity expert could be the key!
What do you think contributes most to a happy, healthy life in later years? We’d love to hear your stories, your thoughts, or the best advice you’ve received from someone who’s been around a while!
That’s the story of Ethel Caterham, a quiet but extraordinary great-grandmother from England who recently became the world’s oldest living person.
Her long life has spanned three centuries, countless historic moments, and more than a few personal milestones.
And while she’s not one to seek the spotlight, her story offers a heartfelt reminder about aging with grace, humor, and perspective.
Let’s take a closer look at Ethel’s life and the gentle wisdom that has carried her through it all.
A life that began before World War I
Ethel Caterham was born on August 21, 1909, in the village of Shipton Bellinger in southwest England—five years before the outbreak of the First World War.
She was born under the reign of King Edward VII, and as of 2025, is believed to be the last living subject of his monarchy.
Over the decades, she’s witnessed the world shift from horse-drawn carriages to high-speed trains, rotary phones to video calls, and handwritten letters to text messages.
A quiet birthday, a remarkable milestone
Ethel celebrated her 116th birthday in a care home in Surrey, just outside London.
The staff at Hallmark Care Homes described the day as peaceful and joyful, with Ethel spending it “at her own pace” and surrounded by family.
She even received a message from King Charles III, who also sent her a letter for her 115th birthday.
While she typically declines interviews, she may have made an exception for a royal birthday greeting.
Also read: An unexpected journey: the tragic story behind a man transporting his deceased mother’s body
Her secret to a long life? Keep it simple
Ethel’s advice for longevity is refreshingly down-to-earth: “Never argue with anyone. I listen and I do what I like.”
Her family describes her as calm, resilient, and warm-hearted—traits that have likely helped her weather many of life’s storms.
Even after losing her husband Norman in 1976 and outliving her two daughters, she has remained a strong and steady presence for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Health setbacks didn’t hold her back
Ethel was still driving just before turning 100, and she played bridge well into her later years.
Even a COVID-19 infection at age 110 couldn’t stop her—she recovered fully and continued living life with the same quiet determination.
Her story reminds us that strength can come in many forms, including a calm spirit and an optimistic attitude.
Also read: 101 and fabulous! Meet the glamorous grandma taking over the internet
Now officially the world’s oldest living person
Ethel inherited the title after the passing of Brazilian nun Maria Branyas Morera.
Her age has been verified by multiple longevity tracking organizations, including Guinness World Records and the Gerontology Research Group.
Though she’s still several years away from breaking the all-time record of Jeanne Calment, who lived to 122, Ethel’s place in history is already secured.
Also read: Can your fingernails tell you how long you’ll live? Here’s what this top longevity doctor says about it.
What we can learn from Ethel’s outlook
Ethel’s legacy goes far beyond her age.
She’s lived through the Spanish flu, the Great Depression, post-war rebuilding, and the digital age.
And through it all, she’s kept her focus on kindness, family, and staying true to herself.
It’s not flashy advice—but it may just be the kind we all need.
Also read: Unlock the secret to longevity: Eat like the natives of this tropical locale and live past 90!
The science of longevity backs her up
Researchers who study supercentenarians often cite a few common habits that echo Ethel’s lifestyle:
- Strong social connections with family and caregivers
- A sense of purpose, even in later years
- Flexibility and optimism in the face of change
- Simple daily routines, including gentle physical activity and light diets
- Low stress, often paired with humor or emotional calm
Ethel Caterham’s story reminds us that a long life isn’t only about living longer—it’s about living well.
Read next: Want to live to 100? This affordable snack recommended by a longevity expert could be the key!
What do you think contributes most to a happy, healthy life in later years? We’d love to hear your stories, your thoughts, or the best advice you’ve received from someone who’s been around a while!
