It’s no secret that aquariums have always been associated with helping their owners relas. But decade after decade, research keeps showing us there are deeper, more quantifiable benefits of woning an aquairum than just chilling out with your underwater friends.
Timeline
- 1980s: In the early 80s, a study showed that gazing at aquarium fish reduces stress and, subsequently, lowers blood pressure.
- 1990s: A nationwide survey conducted by the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association revealed the many health benefits associated with the presence of aquariums in the workplace. The study indicated that it not only reduced stress, but also reduced blood pressure, and improved overall emotional and physical health.
- 2000s: A 2009 Purdue study showed that Alzheimer’s patients exposed to aquariums ate more food, required fewer nutritional supplements and displayed less aggressive behaviors than patients exposed to two-dimensional paintings of seascapes or patients in a control group.
Additionally, aquariums in the classroom are known to reduce anxiety levels in students, and they’re a great tool for teaching kids the responsibilities of caring for a pet, along with some basic chemistry.
What’s more, fish tanks in hospital waiting rooms, doctor’s offices and dentist’s offices also provide a calming effect, while those in children’s wards have been known to help aid in recovery. Parents of autistic children or those with ADS have also experienced the calming effect that owning an aquarium has on their child.