Old guy talking here, but the one constant I've discovered over the years is: Things Change.
The OS changes, devices change, and as a consequence how your code needs to interact with them will have to change as well. Some of these changes are breaking, in other words your old compliers and methods won't be able to run, or run poorly/improperly, on the newer OS/devices.
Generally, it is up to you to make the call on if you need to upgrade. If there's a new feature available that would be of value to you, change. If you want to target the latest Android APK, change. If there's no pressing impetus for you to adopt the new version while you're learning then you're probably fine sticking with the version you have.
Just my two-cents worth. Your mileage, as they say, may vary.