Heritage iMac — Is my current macOS still OK while I can’t afford a new Mac?

Hi everyone,

I’m reaching out for some guidance and reassurance.

I have a heritage iMac that’s still working, but I can’t afford a new Mac at the moment. I just want to understand whether my current macOS and hardware are still safe and reasonable to use, or if there’s anything I should be careful about.

What I’m hoping to understand:

• Is it okay to keep using an older iMac if it’s stable and doing the basics?
• Are there security or compatibility risks I should know about?
• Is it better to stay on my current macOS or update (if possible)?
• Any simple steps to keep it running smoothly for now?

My current setup (for context):

• Older iMac (heritage model)

macOS Big Sur

iMac (Retina, 5K, 27 inch, late 2014)

Processor 4 GHz Quad-Core Intel Core i7

Memory 16GB 1600 MHz DDR3

Graphics AMD Radeon R9 M295X 4GB

• Acer Nitro 5 gaming laptop on Windows
• Several iPhones (including a cracked iPhone 15 Pro Max)
• Apple Watch Ultra 2
• PS5 Pro with a large but older TV

What I’m trying to do:

Right now, I’m just trying to stabilise my life, maybe get a job or take some courses.

Background includes:

• Graphic design & wide-format printing (small hobby business in the past)
• Family business experience (wall & floor tiling)
• Financial literacy studies
• Unfinished Bachelor of Business (Entrepreneurship)
• Diploma of Commercial Arts (Graphic Design)
• Diploma of Tourism Operations

I’m on disability and in Australia (Melbourne). My father has Progressive Supranuclear Palsy and is in full-time aged care, which has been a long and difficult journey for our family. I’m just trying to make sensible tech decisions and not overspend.

Before I call Apple Support, I wanted to ask the community:

What should a newcomer like me clearly explain to Apple when asking for help with an older Mac?

Any calm, practical advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you for taking the time to read this.

— Rodion