Supercentenarian Profile

Ichino Kawasaki

Born:

1903-11-15

Niigata Prefecture

Japan

Died:

✔ Age Certified by LongeviQuest

Ichino Kawasaki (Japanese: 川﨑イチノ) was a Japanese supercentenarian.

BIOGRAPHY

Ichino Kawasaki was born in Niigata Prefecture, Japan, on 15 November 1903. In her youth, she worked as a midwife in Hokkaido. After the Second World War, she relocated from Manchuria (present-day northeastern China) to Kawagoe. Following her husband’s death around 1977, she continued living in the city, surrounded by her family.

At around 106 years of age, as her legs and back grew weaker, she moved into a nursing home for older adults. Her family visited her weekly on a rotating basis, and she especially enjoyed conversations with her young great-great-grandchildren.

In September 2013, at the age of 109, she was visited by Yoshiaki Kawai, the Mayor of Kawagoe, who presented her with a certificate and commemorative gifts in celebration of her longevity. Deeply moved by the mayor’s congratulations, she burst into tears. Even at 109, her hearty appetite surprised those around her.

She remarked that she liked almost every kind of food except long foods such as eel. She was particularly fond of meat, especially roast chicken. She ate three meals a day, following the same menu and daily routine as the other residents. At the time, she experienced some difficulties with her eyesight, hearing, and mobility, but otherwise continued to enjoy her daily life.

Ichino Kawasaki passed away in Kawagoe, Saitama Prefecture, Japan, sometime between 15 and 30 November 2014, shortly after her 111th birthday.

RECOGNITION

Her age was verified by the MHLW, Japan, and validated by the Gerontology Research Group (GRG) on 12 August 2015. The validation was later recognized by LongeviQuest.