Oregon’s believed-oldest resident, Beryl Dillman, has celebrated his 108th birthday with cake, balloons and some words of wisdom.

Dozens gathered at the Merrill Gardens assisted living facility in Eugene as Dillman blew out candles on a white and gold cake beneath balloons forming “108”.

“You don’t know what it’s like to be 100-plus. I’ve found out and I like it!” he told Oregon Public Broadcasting.

The great-grandfather of 19 credits a clean diet for his long life. “Part of the secret is to be careful what you drink and eat,” he said. “I never bothered with alcohol drinks.”

He also advised against overeating and stressed the value of a sharp mind: “As long as I’ve got my good mind, I can meet people.”

His 72-year-old daughter Ruth Sturges praised his positive attitude, calling him a problem solver who fixes rather than complains.

Dillman uses a walker but is still a good singer. The party was also a chance to meet his great-granddaughter Bella Sturges.