The Value Care Group, a London-based digital health startup, has unveiled Mica, a conversational AI wearable, and Milie, an intelligent Internet of Things (IoT) care hub. These innovations aim to shift social care from reactive to proactive, reduce costs for local authorities, and streamline fragmented systems.
Developed in close collaboration with families, clinicians, and social care teams, Mica and Milie were tested and refined in real-world settings. The Value Care Group asserts that these tools collectively contribute to reduced social isolation, quicker interventions, improved care outcomes, and enhanced security.
For Stephen Nyasamo, Founder of The Value Care Group, this endeavor is deeply personal. “When my father became ill, we faced the prevalent struggles of millions of families: waiting lists, isolation, resource constraints, and the fear of unattended situations. The gaps in care widened during COVID,” he stated. “The system’s shortcomings stem from its inability to scale, not a lack of care. We needed a different approach, one that actively prevents problems. That’s the purpose of Mica and Milie.”
Milie serves as the infrastructure connecting various elements, comprising a single, AI-driven platform that integrates fall detection, temperature monitoring, humidity tracking, motion sensors, and fuel data among other features. Milie empowers local authorities to predict, prevent, and proactively manage risks at scale. For instance, a sudden drop in a room’s temperature triggers a risk alert, potentially averting hospital admissions. Similarly, patterns of inactivity prompt timely intervention. Mica, an AI-driven wearable, offers constant support through listening, engagement, and reassurance. It responds to user input and facilitates real-time interactions, providing practical, voice-guided support for medication adherence, fall prevention, and mental health checks. Mica aims to provide peace of mind for families and lessen the burden on councils.
“Care transcends physical health,” Nyasamo emphasized. “It’s about reassurance and connection, even in the absence of physical presence. Mica is groundbreaking because it provides a care system that actively communicates, listens, supports, and is always available – a fundamental advancement in digital health.”
Merton Council is the first UK local authority to pilot Mica and Milie, transitioning toward a proactive care model. The Value Care Group is currently inviting other local authorities and healthcare providers to participate in a limited pilot program running until April.
“The existing system is not equipped to handle the challenges we face,” Stephen concluded. “We can persist with reactive measures, or we can fundamentally rethink the foundation. This model is scalable and self-sustaining through efficiency gains, preventive measures, and improved care. The time for change is now.”
