Moving house with aphasia is easier when the move is treated as a sequence of visible, written decisions rather than one long stream of phone calls. Labels with both words and pictures, a single move-day folder, written quotes, a utilities checklist and short scripts can reduce the amount of language that has to be produced under time pressure. The objective is not to make the person with aphasia a passenger in their own move; it is to make the information accessible enough for them to direct it.
Create one move sheet, not ten separate lists
A move generates dates, addresses, reference numbers, meter readings, contact names and arrival windows. Scattering those details across emails and text messages makes them harder to retrieve. Put the essentials on one page or one note on the phone.
- old address and new address;
- moving date and key collection time;
- mover name and phone number;
- utility companies and account references;
- three priority contacts;
- boxes that must travel with the person rather than in the van;
- one line explaining preferred communication support.
Use large headings and short entries. A person who can recognise a word more easily than they can say it may be able to find “electricity”, “keys” or “bedroom” quickly even during a stressful moment.
Getting a mover quote without a difficult phone call
Written quotes are valuable for anyone, and especially useful when aphasia makes rapid numbers and verbal comparisons difficult. Send the same simple inventory to each mover and ask them to confirm the date, price basis, what is included, insurance or liability terms, stairs/parking assumptions, and any extra charges in writing.
Photos can replace long descriptions. Instead of trying to explain “a narrow bookcase with glass doors and a removable top section”, send a clear photograph with dimensions. For access, photograph stairs, lifts, gates and the parking area.
Use room labels that work in both directions
A good box label tells the mover where the box goes and tells the owner what is inside. Use a large room word, a simple symbol or colour mark, and two or three content words. “KITCHEN — mugs / tea / kettle” is more useful than “Box 17”. Keep the same room word on the destination door.
| Label | Why it helps |
|---|---|
| BEDROOM – clothes – open first | mover knows destination; owner knows priority |
| KITCHEN – cups – kettle | important items can be found without opening every box |
| DO NOT LOAD | protects medication, documents, keys and communication aids |
| FRAGILE – glass | clear instruction without a long explanation |
| OPEN FIRST | creates a small set of immediately accessible boxes |
Keep a no-pack bag with you
Some items should never disappear into the moving van: identification, medication, phone charger, keys, wallet, communication cards, hearing or vision aids, water, basic food, and the move sheet. If the person uses pictures, written keywords or an AAC app, that communication support should remain available throughout the day.
Utilities and address changes: work from a fixed checklist
Address changes often require similar information repeatedly. Prepare a copyable block with the old address, new address and moving date. For utilities, photograph or write down meter readings at the old and new property and keep any confirmation numbers. If a company requires a call, use a script with blank spaces for the account number, date and result.
- Electricity and gas: closing/opening readings and account dates.
- Water: move date and meter reading if applicable.
- Internet: transfer or cancellation date and equipment return.
- Bank and important financial accounts: address update through a trusted channel.
- Healthcare, insurance and regular deliveries: new address and effective date.
- Friends, family and community services: one prepared message rather than repeated explanations.
If a service conversation becomes difficult, use the same method described in customer service calls and chats with aphasia: ask for one question at a time, request written confirmation and keep the reference number.
Move day communication: use three short commands
The busiest moments do not need long explanations. Prepare phrases such as “Please wait”, “This stays here” and “Put this in the kitchen”. Pointing to a room card or box label is often faster and more accurate than trying to produce a complete sentence while several people are talking.
If a support person is present, agree beforehand what they are responsible for. One person might handle parking and access while the owner decides where items go. Clear roles prevent the companion from unintentionally taking over every decision.
After arrival: restore communication before unpacking everything
Set up phone charging, internet access if available, medication, lighting, a place to sit and the first-night essentials before decorative items. A move is tiring, and fatigue can make aphasia communication harder. Schedule non-urgent calls or complex admin for a quieter day rather than trying to finish everything before bedtime.
The same principle applies to travel: reduce uncertainty, keep documents accessible and prepare short scripts. The traveling with aphasia guide contains a similar approach for airports and hotels.
FAQ
Is colour-coding enough for boxes?
It can help, but combine colour with a written room name or symbol. Colours may be hard to distinguish in poor light or for someone with colour-vision differences.
What if a mover needs an immediate answer?
Use two or three written choices or point to the floor plan. It is reasonable to ask for a moment to read a quote or confirm a decision.
Who should make the moving decisions?
The person with aphasia should be supported to make their own decisions to the extent they want and are able. Communication support should increase participation, not automatically transfer control to somebody else.