A Brazilian-born man has officially become the world’s oldest living man, and his explanation for reaching such an extraordinary age is surprisingly simple. João Marinho Neto claimed the title last November following the death of the previous record holder, John Tinniswood, and recently celebrated his 113th birthday on October 5. While some people attempt to delay aging through extreme biohacking experiments and costly treatments, those who live past 100 often credit far more modest habits.

Neto’s story fits that pattern. At the time he inherited the record, he was 112 years and 52 days old, placing him not only as the oldest man alive today, but also 26th among the oldest men in recorded history. He is less than a year away from entering the top ten all-time list, though still several years behind the longest-lived man, Jiroemon Kimura.

Despite his remarkable age, Neto remains younger than the world’s oldest living woman, England’s Ethel Caterham, who is more than three years his senior. Still, his longevity has drawn global attention — especially after he shared what he believes is the key to his long life.

According to Neto, the secret isn’t a special diet, medical treatment, or daily ritual. Instead, he credits a lifetime spent surrounded by loved ones and “good people.” While the answer may not be scientifically measurable, his story reinforces the idea that happiness, connection, and a positive outlook may matter just as much as genetics or lifestyle when it comes to longevity.