How to extend lifespan over 100 years? 3 life habits followed by USA's oldest man could be the secret to longevity

Living beyond 100 years is something many people wonder about, especially in a time when health advice often feels complicated and full of trends. From expensive supplements to strict diet plans, the search for longevity has become almost an industry on its own. But in contrast to all of that, a 111-year-old man in the United States has offered a much simpler explanation based on how he has lived his entire life.

Luis Cano, born in Colombia on December 9, 1914, and currently living in Linden, New Jersey, is believed to be one of the oldest living people in the country. He was officially validated by LongeviQuest in December 2025. Despite living through more than a century of global change, his advice on long life is surprisingly basic and does not involve any modern wellness theories.

Cano’s journey covers multiple roles and countries. He served in the Colombian Army in his early years and later started a bus company that helped connect rural areas. In the 1990s, he moved to the United States, which he often describes as one of the biggest achievements of his life.


He married in 1948 and raised a large family, including 10 children, along with several generations of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. After his wife passed away in 2004, he has been living with two of his children. Even now, he spends much of his time quietly at home, often looking out of the window and reflecting on his long journey.

Habit 1: No smoking or alcohol

One of the key habits Cano highlights is that he never smoked or drank alcohol throughout his life. He says this was not something he struggled with, just a simple decision he stuck to.

Medical research strongly supports this type of lifestyle choice. Studies have linked smoking to a major reduction in life expectancy, along with higher risks of cancer and heart disease. Alcohol consumption, even at lower levels, has also been associated with long-term health risks in recent research.

His approach was not driven by health trends, but by avoidance of habits that could harm the body over time.

Habit 2: Prioritising good sleep

The second habit he credits is regular, good sleep. Cano does not describe any complex routine—just the importance of sleeping well and consistently.

Health experts have long pointed out that quality sleep is essential for overall wellbeing. It supports heart health, brain function, and helps the body recover daily. Poor sleep patterns, on the other hand, are linked with faster ageing and several chronic conditions.

Even among people who live past 100, a stable sleep cycle is often seen as a common pattern.

Habit 3: 'Behave well' and live peacefully

The third habit he mentions is what he simply calls “behave well.” It refers to living in a peaceful way, maintaining good relationships, and avoiding unnecessary stress or conflict.

Research in ageing has shown that emotional stability and strong social ties can play a role in longevity. People who stay connected with family and manage stress better often tend to live longer and healthier lives.

Cano himself is surrounded by a large family network across generations, which appears to keep him socially and emotionally grounded.

Cano’s life also included staying active well into old age. Reports say he continued gardening until around the age of 105 and enjoyed simple activities like watching airplanes and spending quiet time at home.

In a world where longevity is often linked to complicated routines, his life story stands out for its simplicity. His habits were not extreme or expensive, but basic choices repeated consistently over decades.