While the global anti-ageing industry — worth hundreds of billions of dollars and embodied by figures such as biohacker Bryan Johnson, who has pursued treatments ranging from plasma replacement to cell cloning — frames ageing as a problem to be solved, scientists say the reality is far more nuanced. Research shows that although some cognitive functions such as processing speed and working memory do decline with age, others remain stable or even improve, including emotional regulation, perspective-taking, metacognition, and the ability to prioritise meaningful relationships. Experts argue that rather than chasing the reversal of ageing, the more achievable and worthwhile goal is supporting "healthspan" — maintaining quality of life, independence, and wellbeing into later adulthood — through proven measures such as physical activity, social connection, lifelong learning, and good sleep.