114-year-old Shigeko Kagawa becomes Japan's oldest living person; shares one SIMPLE longevity tip, 'I don't have....'
So, what is the secret to Shigeko Kagawa's longevity? We find out...
Early life: Humble beginnings
Shigeko Kagawa was born on 28 May 1911, during a period when Japan experienced profound changes. After finishing her studies at Osaka Women's Medical College (now Kansai Medical University), she pursued medical practice during an era when women doctors remained scarce. Her life experience combined both challenges and optimism, which developed into her dedication to serve her community and deliver healthcare to others.
Career as a doctor
Ms. Kagawa kickstarted her practice during her twenties, before joining the hospital staff in Osaka during World War II. She sadly remembers the complete destruction of her hometown through air raids and the tragic death of numerous people.
She managed her family clinic after the war, while performing the duties of an obstetrician and gynecologist. She always remained on stand by, so she could rush to assist expectant mothers whenever they needed help with emergencies and difficult deliveries throughout the night.
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Ms. Kagawa dedicated herself to her clinic and community service, until age 86 when she finally retired.
An
active retirement
Ms. Kagawa chose not to slow down post retirement. In 2021 at 109 years old, Ms. Kagawa achieved the world record as the oldest Olympic torchbearer when she took part in the Tokyo Torch Relay. Through her remarkable achievement, the world media paid attention to her, while motivating everyone regardless of age. Ms.
Kagawa finished her section of the relay while seated in a wheelchair, but her enthusiastic smile along with her unwavering determination made her the center of attention.
Ms. Kagawa chose to live with her family in Yamatokoriyama Nara Prefecture after her retirement from her home. Every day she follows a standard schedule that includes reading newspapers, and staying informed about news, as well as practicing calligraphy and spending two days at daycare per week.
Her daily routine includes consuming three small portions of nutritious food, while keeping her mind active.
The secret of her longevity
When asked about her secret to living such a long life, Ms. Kagawa offers a humble and lighthearted answer: 'I don't have any. I just play every day. My energy is my greatest asset. I go wherever I please while eating my preferred foods and pursuing my preferred activities. I'm free and independent'.
Her energy comes from her active lifestyle which includes extensive walking, which she practiced before the car became widespread.
The doctor used to walk extensively to visit patients since there were no modern cars like today. This practice could have contributed to her robust health and wellness. She bases her approach on these routines, while stressing that older adults need to stay involved while keeping their minds active and open to fresh encounters.
Community and family
The love of her family members serves as the foundation for Ms. Kagawa's happiness.
She receives continuous joy through the combination of home support and her friendships with both former patients, and her existing social network. Local officials have honored her outstanding life achievements through official recognition for her dedicated service to the community. Many people find inspiration in her story, which encourages everyone to find value in the present moments regardless of their age.
A national Inspiration
Japan is known for its longevity, with 36 million people aged 65 or older making up 29% of the nation's total population, while the country counts 95,119 centenarians as of September 2024. The statistics about Shigeko Kagawa represent more than numbers, since they symbolise hope and new possibilities. Her energetic spirit along with her humorous nature and humble personality shows us that meaningful work combined with physical activity, mental acuity, and energetic heart spirit might represent the greatest secrets of all.
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