It has been established that the UK woman, who celebrated her birthday in Lightwater, Surrey, a few months ago, is the oldest living person in the world.
Ethel Caterham, who is 116 years old, has accomplished something that few people ever do. In August 2025, she revealed the unexpected key to her exceptional longevity during her birthday celebration.
Crowned the World’s Oldest After a Tragedy
After Sister Inah Canabarro Lucas passed away, Caterham, who lives in a care facility in Lightwater, Surrey, became the oldest living person in the world. The Brazilian nun died on April 30, 2025, at the age of 116.
Guinness World Records and LongeviQuest, a database that tracks the world’s oldest people, confirmed Caterham’s record after her death. She grew up in the nearby Wiltshire town of Tidworth after being born in Shipton Bellinger, Hampshire, on August 21, 1909.
The last person known to have survived Edward VII’s rule is Caterham. The Edwardian period, according to American author Samuel Hynes, was a “leisurely time when women wore picture hats and did not vote, when the rich were not ashamed to live conspicuously, and the sun never set on the British flag.”
As the second youngest of eight siblings, she was also born five years prior to the start of World War I, during the time that Herbert Asquith was prime minister.
The Key to Her Longevity
She seemed unimpressed by the fanfare around her milestone when she celebrated her 115th birthday in August 2024, stating that she “didn’t know why there was all the fuss.”
She also reflected on her longevity, noting that the secret was “never arguing with anyone.” Caterham added, “I listen and I do what I like.” She attributed her long life to approaching highs and lows calmly.
She also got a letter from King Charles III congratulating her on achieving the incredible milestone when she turned 115. With the hope that she had a wonderful day, he sent his best wishes. The King expressed his happiness at discovering her intriguing past.
A year later, a spokesperson of her care home said in a statement, “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.”
According to the spokeswoman, Caterham decided not to participate in any interviews in favour of spending the day in solitude with her family and taking her time. As a sign of respect, the monarch was the only guest who was exempt. Additionally, the family thanked everyone for their well wishes on her auspicious day.
