The 5 Surprising Secrets Of João Marinho Neto: World's Oldest Living Man At 113

João Marinho Neto, a name that has recently captured global attention, is not a media mogul or a tech billionaire, but a Brazilian supercentenarian whose life story is a testament to resilience, simplicity, and the power of a positive outlook. As of late 2025, he is officially recognized as the world’s oldest living man, a title he earned after the passing of the previous record holder. His incredible journey spans more than a century, witnessing world wars, technological revolutions, and profound social change, all from his home in the interior of Ceará, Brazil.

This article delves into the verified biography of João Marinho Neto and explores the five fundamental principles—or "secrets"—he credits for his extraordinary longevity. His life provides a fresh, unique perspective on aging, far removed from modern health fads, focusing instead on a deep connection to nature, family, and a balanced, simple routine that has stood the test of time.

João Marinho Neto: A Verified Biography of the World’s Oldest Man

João Marinho Neto's life began in a different world, one defined by agriculture and rural simplicity. His biographical details are meticulously verified by organizations like LongeviQuest and the Gerontology Research Group (GRG), solidifying his place in history.

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• Full Name: João Marinho Neto
• Date of Birth: October 5, 1912
• Current Age: 113 years (as of late 2025)
• Place of Birth: Maranguape, Ceará, Brazil
• Spouse: Josefa Albano dos Santos (1920–1994)
• Children: Four (Antônio, José, Fátima, and Vanda, the latter of whom is deceased)
• Occupation: Farmer (Worked in the fields from the age of four)
• Current Status: World's oldest verified living man
• Key Milestone: Officially recognized as the oldest living man following the passing of the previous record holder in early 2024.

Born in the municipality of Maranguape, in the state of Ceará, Brazil, João Marinho Neto's childhood involved working alongside his father on the family farm. This early immersion in an active, rural lifestyle would become a cornerstone of his long life. He spent his years caring for cattle and harvesting local fruits, including those from the Juazeiro trees, a common sight in the region. His marriage to Josefa Albano dos Santos was a central part of his life, and together they raised four children, establishing the deep family foundation that continues to support him today in his advanced age.

The Five Longevity Secrets of a Brazilian Supercentenarian

When asked about the key to his extraordinary lifespan, João Marinho Neto's answers are remarkably consistent and simple, often emphasizing emotional and lifestyle factors over strict dietary restrictions. His philosophy distills into five core principles that anyone can integrate into their life.

1. An Active Rural Life and Connection to Nature

One of the most frequently cited factors in João’s longevity is his lifelong commitment to physical activity. He was a farmer, meaning his daily routine was inherently active and demanding. This was not about structured exercise but about a life of constant, moderate movement—tending to the fields, walking long distances, and manual labor. This active rural life fostered a deep connection to nature, a theme often echoed by centenarians globally. He believes that maintaining a purpose and having daily responsibilities, even in old age, is crucial for physical and mental health.

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2. A Simple, Home-Cooked Diet

João Marinho Neto’s eating habits are a testament to the benefits of a traditional, simple diet. His meals consist primarily of home-cooked foods, avoiding the processed items and refined sugars that dominate the modern Western diet. He has always maintained a simple yet balanced intake, focusing on fresh, local ingredients from his Brazilian region. Interestingly, despite his age, he is known to still enjoy a cup of coffee every day, proving that extreme austerity is not always the answer to a long life. The emphasis is on simplicity, balance, and consistency over a century.

3. Deep Family Ties and the Love of Loved Ones

For João, the emotional and social environment is as vital as diet and exercise. He consistently highlights the importance of being surrounded by loved ones. Family has been a central pillar throughout his 113 years, from his marriage to Josefa Albano dos Santos to raising his four children, Antônio, José, Fátima, and Vanda. This strong, supportive family unit provides emotional security, a sense of belonging, and continuous care, all of which are known factors in supercentenarian studies. He famously joked that the reason he is the oldest man is that "There are no men older than me, just women!"—a playful nod to the importance of the women in his life.

4. A Positive and Calm Mindset

A positive outlook on life and a calm demeanor are frequently mentioned in interviews about João Marinho Neto. He is described as a man who maintains a positive attitude and avoids unnecessary stress. This mental resilience and emotional stability are powerful, though intangible, longevity secrets. The ability to navigate the inevitable challenges of a long life with a positive mindset is a key differentiator among those who reach supercentenarian status. His connection to his community and his faith also contribute to this inner peace and contentment.

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5. Consistency and Routine

While not a "secret" in the traditional sense, the consistency of João’s lifestyle is perhaps his most powerful tool. His life has been marked by a stable routine—waking up early, working the land, eating simple meals, and spending time with family. This consistency, maintained for over a century in the same region of Ceará, has provided his body and mind with a predictable, low-stress environment. The lack of major, sudden shifts in lifestyle, diet, or location may have played a significant role in his sustained health and vitality.

The Legacy of João Marinho Neto: A Life Beyond the Record

João Marinho Neto’s designation as the world's oldest living man, verified by international authorities, is more than just a title; it is a profound historical marker. Born the year the *Titanic* sank and before the start of World War I, his life bridges the gap between the 19th and 21st centuries. His existence provides a unique window into the history of Brazil and the world.

His story serves as a powerful counter-narrative to the idea that advanced technology or expensive treatments are the sole path to extreme longevity. Instead, his life champions the virtues of a traditional, agrarian lifestyle: hard work, simple nourishment, strong community, and a deep appreciation for the fundamentals of life. The entities surrounding his life—Maranguape, Ceará, his family, and his simple diet—all contribute to a narrative of natural, unforced longevity.

As he continues his journey, João Marinho Neto remains an inspiration, proving that the secrets to a long and fulfilling life may be found not in complex scientific breakthroughs, but in the timeless wisdom of a life well-lived, surrounded by love and grounded in nature.