The world’s oldest man turned 113 years old this months, and people want to know: What is the real key to long life? Are genes, diet, and exercise the only factors involved, or are there other, less obvious factors that are just as important? Looking at those who are in their 90s and only a few who live to be 100 years of age or older, is a useful method to investigate the answer.
Patterns like habits, attitudes, and relationships that collectively seem to support a lengthy and fulfilling journey, appear with time. The life of João Marinho Neto, who is the oldest living person in the world according to Guinness World Records, is a trully extraordinary story that attracts attention from all over the world.
On October 5, he celebrated his 113th birthday.
Simple clues for longevity
Biology is important, of course, but so are routine decisions about what to eat, how to move, and how much sleep to get. However, how those decisions stick can often be affected by the less obvious things like attitude, purpose, and connections with others.
People stick to healthier routines more often if they feel supported. They are more likely to keep their independence, look for help when they need it, and stay active when they have confidence about getting older. This opinion is supported by a 2022 Harvard University study that found that people over 50 who have a positive view on aging typically live longer and report better mental health and quality of life.
João Marinho Neto: a life based on connections
João Marinho Neto, the oldest living person in the world according to Guinness World Records, has a special message to share about this.
João was born in 1912 in Maranguape, in the northeastern state of Ceará, Brazil. And since the age of four, he started helping out on his family’s farm by taking care of livestock and harvesting crops. Most of the people who has lived longer had daily activities and responsibilities that were established by that early start. He remains in close contact with his 6 living children, 22 grandchildren, and many great-grandchildren today.
He has talked a lot about having a life focused on friendship and family. So his story agrees with the Harvard finding that life length and quality seem to be supported by a positive and connected mindset.
Meaningful relationships promote movement, routine, and purpose; then routine and purpose reduce stress; reduced stress improves health; and finally, improved health facilitates continued engagement with loved ones. It’s a very powerful loop after all.
In conclusion, connection transforms years into life.
So what is longevity really all about? Well, there’s no one single magic trick that works. Along with consistent behaviors like healthy eating, regular exercise, and enough sleep, genetics also play a part. But the more subtle aspects, like connection and mindset, are equally important.
According to a 2022 Harvard University study, people who have a positive perspective on aging typically live longer and feel better. The 113 years of João Marinho Neto’s life, which was shaped by friendship, family, and meaningful work from an early age, shows a living example.
The lesson is full of hope. Take care of your body, yes, but also take care of your relationships if you want to live a longer and better life. Give your love ones a call. Eat something together. Set up a small routine that will help your days become more organized. Honor all of your accomplishments, no matter how small.
These are little steps that add up over time. Longevity is all about extending those years, and transforming time into meaningful moments surrounded with people who support you making the process better.