Sam Kekovich sells AI and IoT to seniors to stay at home

For Sam Kekovich, some things make sense. 

The outspoken ‘Lambassador’ and former AFL player is throwing his weight behind in-home aged care tech concern HomeStay as its latest brand ambassador.

The ASX-listed ageing technology company, whose partners include Telstra, Samsung, Garmin and Data#3, has also named DXC’s former head of software engineering Manoj Chandra as its new chief technology officer.

HomeStay deploys wearables and internet of things sensors into seniors’ homes to improve the quality and responsiveness of care through a platform underpinned by artificial intelligence, machine learning and predictive analytics.

Aside from mobile apps and wearable sensors, HomeStay’s platform also integrates data from sensors embedded in doors, fridges, beds and even windows, all of which can flag potential warning signs that preventative care or attention is needed.

HomeStay said in an announcement to investors that it’s joined forces with Kekovich “to shift stereotypes about seniors and highlight technology solutions that can keep them living where they want to be - at home”.

Kekovich has signed on for a 2-year stint spruiking the company, which uses artificial intelligence, machine learning and predictive analytics to turn data from its varied array of sensors into alerts and insights that are automatically sent to family, caregivers and or emergency health services.

The company has agreed to issue Kekovich six million unlisted options (subject to shareholder approval) for his work, with the option to extend his tenure to a third year.

Chandra, who formally started at the company earlier this month, was responsible for overseeomg $50 million worth of projects at DXC.

He’d previously spent a seven months as CTO at marketing firm GDR, and has previous experience in software engineering and development at Honeywell, Macquarie Group and TTG Transportation.