We recently introduced aquariums into our Retford care homes, Branthwaite and Cherry Holt as a trial to enhance the everyday experience for everyone in our community — residents, staff, and visitors alike. Our original aim was simple: to create spaces that feel calm, welcoming, and engaging for everyone who walks through our doors.
From the very first days, it was clear that these living displays were making a real difference. One of the most rewarding things about the aquariums is how naturally they capture residents’ attention. Watching the fish doesn’t require any instructions or effort — it’s something anyone can enjoy at their own pace. Residents often spend time observing the fish, noticing their colours, or following their movements around the tank. For staff, the tanks offer a gentle and relaxed way to engage with residents, helping to build relationships and bring small but meaningful moments of interaction into everyday life within the homes.
For many residents living with dementia, day-to-day life can sometimes feel overwhelming or confusing. The gentle movement of fish and the soothing presence of water in the aquariums provide a calming visual focus that helps ease agitation and restlessness. Staff have noticed that residents often pause to watch the fish swim, taking a moment to breathe and relax. Even short periods of quiet observation can significantly reduce stress and promote a more settled environment throughout the home.
Residents often smile or show visible enjoyment when spending time near the tanks, and communal areas feel more lively yet tranquil at the same time. Staff and visitors have also commented on the uplifting effect the aquariums bring, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that benefits the whole of the care homes. Inspired by these early results, we are now looking at how we might introduce aquariums to our other homes, so even more of our residents, staff, and visitors can enjoy the calming and engaging benefits they bring.
