Norway’s two oldest people celebrate their 111th birthdays

Lina Anundsen and Margit Larsen, both 111, marked their birthdays with family and caregivers—Anundsen in Siljan, Telemark, and Larsen in Odda—making them Norway’s oldest living citizens.

In Siljan, Anundsen celebrated surrounded by her six children, now aged 71 to 90, as well as caregivers at the local health and care centre. Dressed in a white blouse, knitted jacket, and a silver cross given to her by her late husband over 80 years ago, she expressed gratitude for reaching another year. “I hope I’m allowed to live through one more spring, with snowdrops and hepatica,” she said with a warm smile. Staff described her as a “ray of sunshine” whose presence lifts spirits, despite her hearing and vision impairments.

Anundsen, born on 12 November 1914, has lived her entire life in Siljan. She attributes her longevity to a lifetime of farm work, nature, and a sense of security—first with her husband, Gunnar (who died in 2002 at 89), and later in care. The couple had six children, 12 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and 11 great-great-grandchildren. “That I’ve been allowed to be here, I can never thank the Lord enough for,” she said, tearing up with gratitude.

Meanwhile, in Odda, Margit Larsen spent her birthday singing Scout songs with her daughter. Both women, born on the same day in 1914, now share the distinction of being Norway’s oldest residents.

Anundsen’s family gathered in full, with her children—ranging from 71 to 90 years old—taking turns embracing their mother. Caregivers served a cake decorated with “111” in gold and a white heart reading “Lina 111 years.” When asked if she wanted another round of “Happy Birthday,” she eagerly clapped her hands and replied, “Yes!”

Reflecting on her unexpected fame in old age, Anundsen recalled a story from her mother: a fortune-teller once predicted her youngest daughter would become famous. “And famous I became,” she said with a sly smile, now a well-known figure in national media.

Her love for Norway was also on display. Holding a small Norwegian flag, she declared, “This is the most beautiful thing I know.” Staff at the care centre, who call her their “luck charm,” described her as attentive and empathetic, sensing their moods even with her limited sight and hearing. “If I’m having a tough day, it passes quickly after visiting Lina,” said caregiver Ann Kristin Staalvik Gurholt.

Anundsen’s life spans over a century of change in Siljan, a small municipality in Telemark. She was the fourth of nine siblings, four of whom died young—a common tragedy in an era of high infant mortality. After decades of farming and raising her family, she has spent the last ten years in care, where a resident cat, Annie, now keeps her company.

When asked about her secret to longevity, she has previously pointed to hard work, fresh air, and the love of those around her. “Care and kindness—that’s what matters,” she said.