I went from a 2007 full suspension bike to a 2018 bike with 160mm fork and 150mm rear suspension. Old bike was a 26er, new bike 27.5plus.
Modern geometry, wide bars and effective suspension make a huge difference on technical terrain. At 65, I won't be doing any double jumps or chasing any young aggressive riders but I feel the new bike is safer and has allowed me to enjoy challenges I wouldn't have tried on the old one. Plus, it's a blast!