An Indonesian man who claims to be the longest living human in recorded history has described how he “just wants to die”.
Bah Gotho, from central Java, was born on December 31, 1870, according to the date of birth on his identity card. Now officials at the local record office say they have finally been able to confirm that remarkable date as genuine.
If independently confirmed, the findings would make Mr Gotho a staggering 145 years old – and the longest lived human in recorded history.
But despite his incredible longevity, Mr Gotho says he has little wish to remain on this earth much longer. “What I want is to die. My grandchildren are all independent,” he told local media this week.
Mr Gotho has outlived all 10 of his siblings, four wives, and even his children. His nearest living relatives are grand children, great grand children, and great-great grandchildren.
One of Mr Gotho’s grandsons said his grandfather has been preparing for his death ever since he was 122. He has even bought a burial site close to the graves of his children. The gravestone there was made in 1992.
Members of the family said Mr Gotho now spends most of his time sitting and listening to the radio because his eyesight is too poor to watch television. He has had to be spoon-fed and bathed for the past three months as he has become increasingly frail.
When asked what his secret to longevity is, he replied: “The recipe is just patience.”
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