A combination of factors such as genetics, diet, and lifestyle choices influences longevity.
Exercise is another, and an 86-year-old man has shared the secrets behind his long, crediting a habit he picked up after seven years in the army.
Peter Thomas spoke on his TikTok account about how his main priority throughout his life has been health.
He said: "I watch everything I put in my mouth and work out daily. I was very lucky. When I was in service, you had to work out.
The 86-year-old said he got used to working out in the army and stuck with it
TikTok/PeterHThomas
"You had to do your drills and all your training. After seven years, it became part of my everyday custom."
Exercising became a "habit" for the octogenarian, and he encouraged others to work out regularly.
Peter advised: "I beseech you that if you do not have a regular workout program, you change that and make health one of the most important things you must do every day.
"Your health is the most important asset that you have. Look after it."
At 86, Peter is still full of life and has no intention of retiring. He said: "I will never retire. Retirement is just a word. What I do with my life is have a whole bunch of fun.
"I feel that I have a purpose. It is a huge need that you fulfil your own way. [Have a] think if you are doing good and giving back."
Peter finds his purpose through his one-minute series on social media, which he described as an "adventure".
He added: "I am blessed and honoured that I can give back at this time and have so much fun doing it."
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'Your health is the most important asset that you have'
TikTok/PeterHThomas
The 86-year-old encouraged focusing on what you will do with your life and finding a sense of purpose for motivation.
Peter said: " I hate the word retirement. It makes me think you are doing nothing. Retirement is a waste of time.
"So, what will you do to have fun, enjoy and be passionately involved in your later years of life? You have to have a purpose; if you keep your purpose, that is your retirement."
An 81-year-old has recently shared his secret to old age, naming a longevity-boosting activity he does every morning.
