At just 26, Lewis Hornby has taken a giant leap towards changing the lives of dementia patients with his innovative invention, Jelly Drops. Imagine creating such a life-saving invention at such a young age, Lewis’ accomplishment is nothing short of amazing.
The inspiration behind Jelly Drops is a heart-touching story. When Hornby’s grandmother, Pat, was hospitalized due to dehydration, a lightbulb went off. Thankfully, his grandma made a full recovery and got to live healthy for some years before passing away due to COVID-19. Recognizing that dehydration is a common and dangerous issue for those with dementia, he sprang into action. The result? A sugar-free treat made from 95% water and electrolytes, designed to entice dementia patients to hydrate more frequently and easily.
With a £100,000 boost from the Alzheimer’s Society and a commitment to give back 1% of all profits, Jelly Drops is not just a product but a mission. It was developed after Hornby’s firsthand research in his grandmother’s care home, where he spent a month observing and learning the hydration challenges faced by residents with dementia.
The insights were shocking, but understandable. Many residents avoided drinking the traditional way, either because they no longer recognized cups or lacked the motor skills to use them. The existing hydration aids didn’t hit the mark either, often feeling too clinical or infantilizing. Enter Jelly Drops: a dignified, enjoyable solution for staying hydrated without the medicalized vibe.
These vegan-friendly sweets come in six fruity flavors, packaged in trays of 24, equivalent to 300ml of water. They’re a hit in UK care homes and have garnered a 50,000-strong waiting list globally, with plans to go international next year.
Not just for dementia patients, Jelly Drops have found their way to those with other cognitive impairments, Parkinson’s disease, and individuals undergoing chemotherapy. Hornby and his dedicated team are even exploring different consistencies to cater to people with swallowing difficulties.
Priced thoughtfully to be accessible, Jelly Drops can be purchased individually, as part of a value pack, or via subscription.
Lewis’s journey from a concerned grandson to an innovative inventor has been nothing short of remarkable. Starting with the desire to help his grandmother, he’s now on the verge of helping countless others. The feedback from other families and care homes has been overwhelmingly positive, turning what used to be a challenging task into a daily highlight.
“I just wanted Jelly Drops to be sweets that anyone can enjoy – they just happen to be designed for people with dementia. It plays on the abilities of people with dementia to look after themselves … to hydrate independently and with dignity. From a carer perspective as well … often Jelly Drops can turn what is the hardest task of the day to the highlight of the day,” said Lewis.
“We initially developed it with Grandma and it was a lot of development from that stage to a market-ready product. So when we started getting feedback from other people enjoying it as much as she did, that was a massive relief. It’s really great to be able to work on something you feel really passionate about … I’m very fortunate to be joined by a really great team as well,” he added.
Lewis Hornby’s invention isn’t just a testament to his creativity and compassion but also a beacon of hope for families and caregivers seeking better ways to care for their loved ones. Kudos to Lewis, and we’re sure his grandma, somewhere out there, is very proud of what her grandson has accomplished.
Jelly Drops are £7.95 each tray, but are reduced to £5.70 per tray when bought as a subscription.