Ethel Caterham, World’s Oldest Person, Attributes Longevity to ‘Peace of Mind’
Ethel Caterham, officially recognized as the world’s oldest living person at the age of 116, credits a life of avoiding arguments and following her own inclinations as the key to her remarkable longevity.
The record was confirmed following the passing of Brazilian nun Sister Inah Canabarro earlier this year. Born on August 21, 1909, in Hampshire, England, Caterham has witnessed over a century of global change. When asked about the secret to her long life, Caterham told the Associated Press, “Never argue with anyone. I listen, and I do what I like.” This philosophy underscores the growing understanding of the link between emotional wellbeing and physical health, as chronic stress is increasingly linked to accelerated aging and disease.
Caterham’s life has been one of both quiet moments and adventure; at 18, she moved to India to work as a nanny, a bold step for a young woman in 1927. She later married British Army major Norman Caterham, and their life together took them to Hong Kong and Gibraltar, where she established a nursery for local children. Research from Yale University demonstrates that managing stress can significantly impact biological aging, potentially mitigating risks of heart disease and diabetes. Learn more about the Yale study here.
Today, Caterham resides in a care home in Surrey, and her story serves as an inspiration as global populations continue to age. Her longevity also appears to run in the family, as her sister, Gladys Babilas, lived to be 104. Officials at Hallmark Luxury Care Homes, where Caterham currently lives, say they will continue to support her wellbeing and celebrate her milestones.
