Hyderabad: With the festive season around the corner once again, psychologists vouched for people making donations as it leads to an increase in ‘happy hormones’ and helps build a positive mindset by ending the year on an optimistic note.
Orphanages and old-age homes in the city said that while donations are generally made sparsely throughout the year, depending on donors’ birthdays, Christmas time is when they receive continuous donations of blankets and other essential items.
Psychologists urged people to donate to children, as they are excited to receive sweets, special food and winter clothes, especially during Diwali, Ramzan and Christmas.
“Donations during Christmas is a foreign culture which is good, as children are learning something from it. Another reason could also be that during the Pongal festival, people in some villages burn their old clothes, towels, cots and more. So, people are getting prepared to donate them what they require in December itself,” said psychologist Anita Are.
While appreciating the efforts of the people, those running old-age homes appealed to people to donate items that are required, such as adult diapers, bedsheets, utensils and medical support, instead of donating their surplus items.
A 70-year-old woman at an old-age home said that not all like wearing old stuff, as people sometimes donate what they have worn without washing it. “At some old age homes, inmates themselves have to clean their own vomit or discharge. It would be helpful if people donated more helpers,” she said.
“During the winter season and especially during December, people aged between 80-90 cannot bear the cold and are weak. They can hardly walk. We have blankets, but we need diapers. Instead of just making donations, if you can just give your time and spend a day with them, it will make them happier as well,” said Madhukar K., director of an old-age home.
