Durcal Raises €3 Million to Expand Telecare Abroad With AI

A smartwatch backed by a human team

More than 16,000 families already use Durcal to look after their elders. Unlike a conventional smartwatch, each Durcal watch is backed by a team of people available around the clock, and the company handles more than 3,500 emergencies a year.

The ecosystem combines a free mobile app with a smartwatch designed for older users. It includes an SOS button, automatic fall detection, GPS, activity and certain vital-sign monitoring, and medication reminders, all linked to a 24-hour telecare service.

Italy now, Latin America next

Having consolidated its business in Spain, Durcal is working in Italy to validate its product and partnership model before expanding at larger scale. It is also preparing to launch in Latin America. The company points to ageing populations and families looking for ways to help relatives stay independent for longer.

The new capital will also go toward strengthening the team and improving the product. On AI, Durcal wants to move from a reactive model, which acts after an emergency has occurred, to a proactive and personalised one that anticipates needs without losing the human element.

"We have validated our product and our model, and now we want to take a step further, bringing to new markets our vision of telecare that is more technological, effective, human and less stigmatising," said CEO Francesc Lucena. Cheb Terrab, who is also CEO of Brava Investments Management Corp, said his goal is to speed up growth and consolidate Durcal's presence in Europe, Latin America and other markets.