any 79+ year old grandmas who tavel solo by train

[conistonoldwoman]

My dad died 18 months ago and if mum and dad ever travelled to see us they came by car, a 2and half hour journey. Now mum is on her own she could use a direct train from Peterborough and I would meet her right near the platform exit. Mum is hard of hearing but does have hearing aids which help. Her mobile phone doesn't get any use but if she was more confident in using it this could help. My brother thinks travelling by train would be too stressful for her as she is so unused to it. I can see his point but equally I don't like the thought of writing off my mum's ability to try new things. It's a difficult one. Any advice would be appreciated.

Contact the station. You can request help getting on and off the train.

My MIL does this and she's well into her 80s. She says its much easier for her than driving (which she still does) as she can just sit down and relax. Its best if someone can put her on train and someone meet her at other end though

My parents (in their 80s) regularly travel by train on their own (ie: not with each other) - they cross London, get buses etc to different stations but I have to admit that they are in good health and fiercely independent, although still can't really manage to use a mobile phone

Good news...last night mum phoned to say she was determined to get the train! She has lovely neighbours who can get her on the train and I will meet her the other end.

When my elderly nan travelled solo, the train company had someone meet her to help change trains and move luggage. With relatives only at either end the help of the train company is invaluable. I recommend you ring as they usually have someone responsible for this.