Encountering a situation that hits close to home

On my way home after running some errands related to my smartphone after work, I spotted an elderly lady wandering around on the train platform.


Wondering if she was okay, I walked past her and sat down on a bench, but then she started walking toward me. It's not a very crowded station, even on Sundays or during rush hour, so wandering around makes you stand out.


I was concerned, so I spoke to her, and sure enough, she was lost.
She said she had come by bus and then got confused when she tried to take the train home.😢
By chance or a miracle, we were getting off at the same station, so I told her, "Let's go together. Let's get on the train," and we sat on the bench and talked for a few minutes.


She looked like she was about to cry, saying she had stopped at many places and got confused after that, so I told her, "I got lost the first time I came here too."


As we walked along the platform after getting off the train, the lady spoke to me.
"I'm 90 years old. My children live far away, and they tell me, 'Are you sure you're okay on your own? You shouldn't go out so much,'" she said, looking sad as she added that she felt like she might be past her prime.


As we parted ways, she held my hand and said, "Thank you. Thank you so much." Since I also live alone, I replied, "I live alone too, and my children are far away, so we're in the same boat. Please take care on your way home," and we said goodbye.
I wish I could have said something a bit more thoughtful.😂


I'm not elderly, but I am middle-aged. I don't have anyone to talk to at home, so I don't really exercise my brain or do things for others. When I'm alone, I find myself sayingAm I losing my mind?to myself more often.


I always worry about whether it's okay to speak to someone or not, but I've decided that if I'm in doubt, I'll act immediately.
Because I want someone to help me, because I might wander around when I get senile, because I might end up in an accident...


A request to the young people out there~🙏
If you see an older lady wandering around or looking unsteady on a train platform, waiting for a signal, or at an intersection, please don't be put off—just speak to her.
You wouldn't want to see an older lady get hit by a train right in front of you, would you?😂
I don't want to get hit either.


🌸 I felt that the lady I met today has lived a very dignified and wonderful 90 years. Grateful for this lovely encounter.