Cultivating Longevity: 古橋マサエ (Masae Furuhashi)’s 111 Years of Healthy Living

https://longeviquest.com/2025/04/cultivating-longevity-%e5%8f%a4%e6%a9%8b%e3%83%9e%e3%82%b5%e3%82%a8-masae-furuhashis-111-years-of-healthy-living/

Masae Furuhashi (古橋マサエ), born on 24 January 1914 in what is now Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture, has been officially validated as a supercentenarian at the age of 111.
She is currently the oldest known living person in Hamamatsu City.

Furuhashi has experienced many changes over the course of her life, while continuing to maintain her health, independence, and close ties with those around her. Her longevity may be a result of her consistent, health-conscious routines and the traditional values that have guided her daily life.

From a young age, Furuhashi demonstrated physical endurance—cycling approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) each way to attend high school. She later married a high school teacher and had four children, but her husband died during World War II, leaving her a widow at 27. Despite the challenges, she raised her children while supporting her in-laws and helping with the family’s farm work.

Well into her late 80s, Furuhashi remained active in daily life. She continued growing vegetables, tending to bonsai and ornamental plants, and incorporating sunbathing into her health routine. Even in old age, she was known for riding her bicycle to the fields and living independently.

She also maintained a simple and balanced diet, beginning each morning with a pickled plum (umeboshi) and often preparing vinegared dishes at home. She followed the principle of hara hachibu—eating in moderation. She has long enjoyed eel (unagi), which remains her favorite food.

Her surroundings may also have contributed to her well-being. She lived among neighbors who were similarly long-lived and active, with whom she shared a love for gardening and pleasant daily conversation. Known for her cheerful personality, she actively participated in local women’s association events into her 70s.

When she was 102, Furuhashi broke her femur but recovered in less than a month. Since then, she has been living in a nursing home in Hamamatsu City. Now 111 years old, she receives some help with eating and standing but continues to live comfortably.

As of now, her family spans four generations, including four children, seven grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren.

Happy belated 111th Birthday!