LongeviQuest is pleased to share that Mrs. Hanako Ishii (石井花子), one of the oldest living people in Japan, turned 112 years old on May 7, 2025. She lives in a senior care hospital in Isumi City, Chiba Prefecture, where she has been receiving care since the age of 105.
Born on May 7, 1913, in Emi Village, Awa District, Chiba Prefecture, Mrs. Ishii was the second of three children in a family that ran a tofu shop. After high school, she worked for a general company until marrying at the age of 39. Just one year later, her husband passed away, and she returned to her family home with her young son. Before her son started elementary school, she began teaching dressmaking to local girls. Later, she devoted herself to household tasks and raising her child. Even in her 70s, she made walking a part of her daily routine to stay active.
At 100, she lost her eyesight due to cataracts and glaucoma. Despite this, she has been able to manage daily life with the support of her family and caregivers. Her family says she enjoys spending time in a lively home environment, and she eats a variety of foods without particular preferences—though she especially likes mackerel eggs simmered in soy sauce and pumpkin. They describe her personality as calm and steady, which they believe has played a role in her long life. Although she now spends more time resting in bed, on good days she enjoys chatting cheerfully and continues to spend her days peacefully.
In January 2024, LongeviQuest visited Mrs. Ishii and published a feature article and video about her life. As the visit came to an end, she saw CEO Ben Meyers off from her wheelchair, having come with him all the way to the elevator. Just before parting, she gently said,
“By the time you arrive back in America, the sun will have set—please travel safely.”
He still remembers her kind words from that day.
Happy 112th Birthday, Ms. Ishii!
http://www.supercentenariditalia.it/persone-viventi-piu-longeve-in-italia.
Persone viventi più longeve in Italia – Supercentenari d'Italia (supercentenariditalia.it)