World’s Oldest Living Woman, 116, Reveals Her Secret to Longevity – And It’s Not What You’d Expect

In the quaint village of Lightwater, Surrey, a remarkable British woman just marked a birthday that defies imagination. Ethel Caterham, now officially 116 years old, has been verified as the world’s oldest living person by Guinness World Records and the LongeviQuest database. Her August 21, 2025, celebration wasn’t about fanfare—it was a quiet nod to a century-plus of quiet triumphs, from surviving wars to outlasting pandemics. But Ethel’s simple, no-nonsense tip for a long life? It’s as surprising as it is straightforward.

From Edwardian England to Global Record-Holder

Ethel’s life began on August 21, 1909, in the rural hamlet of Shipton Bellinger, Hampshire, during the reign of King Edward VII—an era of leisurely afternoons, elaborate hats, and an empire on which “the sun never set,” as historian Samuel Hynes once described it. Raised in nearby Tidworth, Wiltshire, as the second-youngest of eight siblings, she entered the world under Prime Minister Herbert Asquith’s watch, just five years before World War I erupted.

Her extraordinary age came into focus after the passing of Brazil’s Sister Inah Canabarro Lucas, another 116-year-old, on April 30, 2025. Ethel’s status was swiftly confirmed, placing her at the top of longevity lists worldwide. She’s the last known survivor of Edward VII’s reign and has outlived Titanic’s sinking, both World Wars, the Great Depression, the Russian Revolution, and even a bout of COVID-19 in 2020 at age 110—making her one of the oldest to beat the virus, per Guinness records.

Longevity seems woven into her DNA; one sister, Gladys, lived to 104. Ethel herself drove until 97 and has spent the last 50 years in Surrey, now at the Hallmark Lakeview Luxury Care Home, where staff dote on her every whim.

The Secret? “Never Argue – And Do What I Like”

Ethel’s low-key approach to her 115th birthday last August hinted at her philosophy. “I don’t know why there’s all this fuss,” she said with typical humility. But when pressed on her secret to such a vibrant life, she delivered a gem: “Never arguing with anyone.”

She elaborated with a chuckle: “I listen and do what I like.” Calm amid highs and lows, Ethel credits her serenity for outpacing time. No fancy diets, no extreme routines—just a steady, unflappable spirit.

This year, at 116, she skipped interviews to savor the day with loved ones. A care home spokesperson shared: “Ethel and her family are overwhelmed by the kind messages. She’s chosen quiet time with family—except for a special visit from the King, as respect demands.”

King Charles III sent a congratulatory letter last year, hoping she’d relish her “remarkable milestone” and sharing his delight in her “fascinating personal history.” Mark McKinley, Guinness Director of Records, added: “Ethel never aimed for records. We hope to present her certificate soon.”

A Life Spanning Eras: From Au Pair in India to Great-Grandmother

Ethel’s adventures began at 18 as an au pair for a military family in India, returning to the UK in 1931. There, she met Norman Caterham, a choirboy at Salisbury Cathedral, and married him in 1933. As he rose to lieutenant colonel, they lived abroad—Hong Kong, Gibraltar—where Ethel ran a nursery. They had two daughters; Norman passed in 1976.

Now a grandmother of three and great-grandmother of five, Ethel reflects: “I’ve traveled the world and ended up in this lovely home where everyone spoils me rotten.”

Her 116 years span Titanic’s tragedy, both world wars, economic crashes, revolutions, and pandemics—yet she remains a beacon of quiet endurance.

The current record for oldest ever? France’s Jeanne Calment at 122 years and 164 days. Ethel’s still chasing that mark—one peaceful day at a time.

If this inspired you, read: More Secrets to Living a Century-Plus Life.