If you’ve been feeling a little uneasy after hearing that Microsoft will stop supporting Windows 10 on October 14, 2025 — you’re not alone.
Many senior care leaders are quietly asking the same questions:
- “Will this affect our residents?”
- “Are we still going to be compliant?”
- “Is our current IT setup going to cause problems?”
Let’s take this one step at a time — and walk through what’s changing, what it means for your facility, and how to stay ahead with grace and confidence.
Why This Matters — Especially in Assisted Living
👵 Resident Safety & Family Trust
Once Microsoft ends support, Windows 10 computers will no longer get free security updates. That makes them a tempting target for hackers — and could put sensitive resident data at risk.
Think health records, legal documents, payment details — everything families trust you to protect.
📋 Compliance & Insurance Concerns
Outdated software = compliance red flags.
HIPAA. Minnesota privacy laws. Cyber insurance. They all expect your systems to be up to date. Falling behind could create exposure you didn’t bargain for — and make insurance renewals tougher (and more expensive).
🛠️ Compatibility with Your Daily Tools
Many of the tools you rely on — from PointClickCare to scheduling apps — may not work properly on unsupported systems. That means more downtime, more IT headaches, and less time focused on what matters: care.
What You Should Do (Right Now)
1. Take Inventory of Your Devices
Walk through your building. Note which computers still run Windows 10. Make a simple list. This is your starting point.
2. Plan for Upgrades
Microsoft recommends upgrading to Windows 11. But not all older machines are compatible. You may need to:
- Replace outdated computers
- Purchase temporary extended support (called ESUs)
- Explore secure alternatives that meet healthcare standards
3. Back Up Everything First
Before you make a single change, back up your data. Resident records. Financial info. Staff logins. A good backup is like an insurance policy — if something goes sideways, you’ll be glad you have it.
4. Ask for Help from Someone Who Gets It
Don’t try to DIY this. Work with an IT partner who understands senior care, HIPAA, and what’s at stake. You need someone who speaks your language and can guide you through this transition without disrupting care.
Let’s Make a Simple, No-Stress Plan — Together
If this all feels a bit overwhelming, that’s okay. You’re not expected to have all the answers. But you do need a trusted partner who can walk beside you — with calm, clarity, and compassion.
💬 Let’s start with a FREE 10-Minute Discovery Call.
We’ll talk through where you’re at, what you need, and how we can help — no tech jargon, no pressure.
📞 Call us at 763-335-9255 or click here to schedule your free call.
Because at the end of the day, this isn’t just about software.
It’s about your residents’ safety, your staff’s peace of mind, and the trust families place in your care.
And that’s something worth protecting.
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