The world’s oldest person passes away at 116. Here’s how this Japanese woman lived so long

The question of how she managed to live such a long life is complex. LongeviQuest, the organisation verifying the ages of the world’s oldest individuals, confirmed Tatsumi, among four supercentenarians who have surpassed the age of 110 this year.

A black and white photo of Fusa Tatsumi taken when she was in her 20s (Source: Wikimedia Commons)

Yumi Yamamoto, President of LongeviQuest, who has been collecting life stories of the world’s oldest people, disclosed commonalities among Japan’s “super-agers” that contribute to their remarkable longevity. Consistency in habits, avoiding overeating, moderation in activities, and staying physically active were some lifestyle habits followed by these supercentenarians, as reported by Business Insider.

Ms Yamamoto said “Most of the centenarians and supercentenarians I have met tend to have continued the same lifestyle habits throughout extended periods of time”.

Okinawan elders, for instance, practice the Confucian-inspired adage “Hara Hachi Bu,” reminding them to cease eating when their stomachs are 80 percent full. This mindful eating approach helps with weight loss and management, according to dietician Ekta Singhwal.

Another philosophy, Uketamo, deeply ingrained in Japan’s cultural ethos, advocates for embracing acceptance. Translated as “to receive” or “to accept,” Uketamo encourages individuals to welcome life openly, acknowledging both joys and sorrows without resistance. Dr Sanjay Singh, a consultant general physician at Cygnus Laxmi Hospital, advises building resilience through coping strategies, a positive mindset, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Gratitude, an essential aspect of Japanese culture, is linked to the Arigato principle, expressing thankfulness for all aspects of life, good or bad, as explained by Dr Kunjan Gupta, consultant psychiatrist, Regency Hospital.

Dr Rohan Kumar, consultant psychiatrist at Regency Hospital, underscores the significance of Wabi-Sabi, centered around finding beauty in imperfection, impermanence, and the natural cycle of growth and decay, emphasising simplicity, asymmetry, and a profound connection with nature.

Moreover, author and explorer Dan Buettner, researching longevity hotspots, unveils specific lifestyle practices followed by residents in these areas, including discovering one’s ‘ikigai’ and never skipping the morning cup of coffee.