Jelly Drops and Dementia

One of the most common dangers with Dementia is dehydration.  More often than not, people with dementia cant convey that they're thirsty, or forget to stay properly hydrated.  Very recently two UK researchers have invented a marvelous source of hydration for people with Dementia, they're called Jelly Drops, and they're so simple yet so innovative.  Lewis Hornby had studied various people, including his own grandmother with dementia, and had noticed that people with dementia were becoming dehydrated because of a litany of issues.  Whether it be the inability to recognize cups, recognize their own thirst, loss of dexterity, get combative at assistance with drinking, or even how easy it is to spill liquids, Lewis had recognized that it was easier for people with dementia to eat than it was to drink.  Furthermore, Lewis had noticed that people with dementia are far more receptive to eating treats than meals, something about getting a piece of candy resonates with them more than properly plated foods, and his grandmother was more comfortable eating in social situations than she was independently.


With all these key behaviors in people with Dementia, Lewis took to the kitchen and began to prototype out hydrating snacks that resembled jello.  He came up with a formula that is 95% water with all natural flavoring and no sugars to be as healthy as possible, and shaped this snack into an enticing treat with vibrant colors and unique packaging.  Just one box of his Jelly Drops contain half the daily recommended water consumption for any adult.  He was able to take a complex issue, and find a simple solution, and is now working with various facilities to make Jelly Drops widely available and better the lives of all people with dementia.

Check out his Ted Talk to hear about his process! I'm hoping Jelly Drops goes world wide soon, the world needs this level of innovation!