World Oldest Person Ethel Caterham Turns 117 and Shares Her Secret to Long Life

(Ethel Caterham. The Guardian)

The Independent Nation celebrated Ethel Caterham’s 117th birthday in order to get ready for the 2027 General Election.

According to Guinness World Records, she is the oldest living person in the world.

Caterham was born in the United Kingdom on August 21, 1909, and has experienced over a century of significant historical shifts.

She has lived through many generations of the British royal family, having been born during the reign of King Edward VII.

Caterham issued a statement thanking people for their well wishes and celebrated her birthday with loved ones.

“I appreciate all of your nice birthday greetings. I’ve experienced a lot of firsts this year, even at 117, including holding hands with the King and petting a llama,” she said.

“I’ve had a great day celebrating with my loved ones, and I’m excited to see what the upcoming year has in store!”

Meeting King Charles III in September 2025 was one of Caterham’s most memorable experiences in recent years.

She reportedly reminisced about witnessing his 1969 investiture as Prince of Wales during their meeting.

After Brazilian nun Inah Canabarro Lucas passed away at the age of 116 last year, Caterham was named the oldest living person in the world by Guinness World Records.

In addition, Caterham is acknowledged as the oldest living lady in the world.

Caterham had previously speculated that her unusual longevity might have been influenced by her way of living.

“I listen, I never argue with anyone, and I do what I like,” she declared.

One of her siblings is said to have lived to be 104 years old.

She is the seventh of eight siblings.

Caterham’s spouse, Norman Caterham, passed away in 1976.

Gem and Anne, her two daughters, were also outlived.

She now has three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Caterham ran a nursery after working as a babysitter in her early years.

She currently resides at a care facility in Surrey, England.

Her 117th birthday was celebrated privately with her family, according to Guinness World Records.