Impuls also thinks with you

It's always nice to have someone think with you and help you get things back in order. Especially if you are faced with a situation or problem that is difficult to solve on your own. You can enlist the help of a Thinker free of charge. One way to do this is through Impuls. Annette Ginsel, senior citizen advisor at Impuls, tells more about her role in the house on Nico Ploumstraat. 

"Every Tuesday I attend the information desk in Impuls' little house on Nico Ploumstraat in Bleijerheide. Initially there was little walk-in at the desk, but now it is getting busier. I try to help everyone who comes in as best I can. The information desk in itself is a place for thinking along. The requests for help are very diverse, all sorts of things come up. 

It is fun and varied to help with all kinds of questions. These include applying for benefits, creating a DigiD or looking for housing or work. People come with letters from their health insurance and questions about their deductible. Or with forms that they have to fill out and don't know what to do with. Other times I help with translations when people can't speak Dutch. I help people right away if I can, and I refer them if necessary. It complements my work as an elder advisor very well.

One case that has stuck with me is that of a woman who reported with a job coach. Her husband had incipient dementia. Mrs. was considering retirement, but did not know if it was financially possible. Applying for benefits was also difficult for her. I referred her for further help and understood that she was able to manage everything well. That's what I do it for, to help people and make sure they find their way through the rules and benefits."

Thinkers