When someone reaches an exceptional age, everyone is curious about the secret to their long life.
While many attribute longevity to specific diets or miracle drinks promoted in the media, 116-year-old Ethel Caterham credits something much simpler.
And she believes it’s the key to her being the world’s oldest living woman.
Born in 1909
At 116, Ethel Caterham holds the title of the world’s oldest living person, a distinction verified by both Guinness World Records and LongeviQuest, the global database that tracks supercentenarians.
But Ethel’s life story is about far more than just a number. Over the years, she’s witnessed pivotal moments in history, from the sinking of the Titanic and two World Wars to the first moon landing, the fall of the Berlin Wall, and the rise of the internet, iPhones, and even TikTok.
Born on August 21, 1909, in Shipton Bellinger, Hampshire, Ethel grew up in Tidworth, Wiltshire, as one of eight children, with remarkable longevity running in her family—her sister Gladys lived to 104.
At 18, Ethel embarked on a unique journey, working as an au pair for a British military family in India, where she experienced a blend of British and Indian cultures, including Christmas traditions and the joy of Tiffin and Tea. She spent four years working as a nanny in both India and the UK before meeting Norman Caterham, a British Army major, at a dinner party in 1931.
The couple married in 1933 at Salisbury Cathedral, where Norman had once been a choirboy. Over the years, Norman advanced to the rank of lieutenant colonel in the Royal Army Pay Corps. The couple lived in various locations, including Harnham near Salisbury, Hong Kong, and Gibraltar. While in Hong Kong, Ethel established a nursery, teaching local and British children English, games, and crafts.
They later returned to Surrey to raise two daughters, Gem and Anne. Norman passed away in 1976.
A Life of Challenges and Surprises
Ethel has endured incredible challenges, including battling Covid-19 at age 110 in 2020, a virus that can be particularly deadly for the elderly. Remarkably, she made a full recovery.
So, what’s her secret to a long life?
“Never arguing with anyone. I listen, and I do what I like,” she shared with the BBC—a simple but powerful philosophy that has guided her through more than a century of living.
A Historic Record
Ethel’s extraordinary longevity has gained widespread recognition. In 2022, she became the oldest living person in the UK, and after the passing of Brazil’s Sister Inah Canabarro Lucas in April 2025, Ethel claimed the title of the world’s oldest verified person.
On her 115th birthday, King Charles III sent a letter praising her “truly remarkable milestone,” offering his “warmest good wishes.” By her 116th birthday in August 2025, Ethel had even met with the king in person, reminiscing about his investiture in 1969.
On August 21, 2025, Ethel celebrated her 116th birthday, making her the first British person to ever reach this age.
Living a Full and Independent Life
Ethel drove until she was 97, enjoyed playing contract bridge well into her 100s, and remained fiercely independent for much of her life. She lived with her daughters until 2020, when her younger daughter, Anne, passed away, and she moved into a care facility in Surrey.
Her care home staff praised her extraordinary milestone, saying, “Your strength, spirit, and wisdom are an inspiration to us all. Here’s to celebrating your remarkable journey.”