Guinness World Record has recognised 116-year-old Tomiko Itooka as the world’s oldest living person, following the death of 117-year-old Maria Branyas Morera.

The GWR disclosed this in a statement on its website on Wednesday.

GWR further disclosed that Tomiko is currently the 24th oldest person in record history

The statement read, “116-year-old Tomiko Itooka (b. 23 May 1908) is now the world’s oldest living woman and oldest living person, following the death of 117-year-old Maria Branyas Morera.

“Her age is validated by the Gerontology Research Group (directed by Robert D. Young) and she was confirmed to be alive today by a Guinness World Records representative.”

The statement added that Tomiko resides in a nursing home where she gets timely help from carers.

“Tomiko resides in a nursing home in the city of Ashiya, Hyōgo Prefecture, Japan.

“She’s lived there since 2019, having previously lived at home with her two daughters until the age of 110,” the statement read.

Tomiko reportedly celebrated her 116th birthday three months ago, receiving flowers and a cake as well as a card from the city’s mayor.

“Her carers said that she remains able to communicate clearly, despite being hard of hearing, and routinely expresses gratitude towards them.

“Bananas are her favourite food, and she drinks Calpis (a milky, acidic drink) every morning.

“Tomiko is currently the 24th-oldest person in recorded history.

“She has been the oldest living person in Japan (and Asia overall) since December 2023, following the death of 116-year-old Fusa Tatsumi.

“The oldest person ever authenticated was Jeanne Calment (France), who lived to the age of 122 years 164 days.”

Recall that on Tuesday, a Spain’s Maria Branyas Morera, who was born in the United States and lived through two world wars, died at the age of 117.

According to her family, “she died in her sleep, peacefully and without pain.”