Introducing Taylor, our newest team member!

Taylor Newswanger, MS, OT Registered and Licensed Occupational Therapist, joins the VisionCorps team!

Describe your role with VisionCorps.

Occupational Therapy professionals at VisionCorps travel to people’s homes to see what help they need, or what training or guidance they need to improve their quality of life while living with a visual impairment. We return and do treatment — whatever they need; cooking, tactile identification of items in the house, assistance with creating better lighting, or home-safety adaptations to their homes. There is no limit to what we can do and it is all very client-focused, as each person has individual needs in order to maintain their independence.

Where did you complete your education?

I graduated from Alvernia University in Reading and studied Occupational Therapy, where I received my Master’s Degree.

How has VisionCorps helped you with your career development?

VisionCorps has given me an area to specialize in and focus on — Low Vision. My background was a medically-based training and many think of Occupational Therapy as such. Working with Low Vision is Occupational Therapy as well.

What would people never guess you do in your current role?

The broad range of things we do for clients; most people think that OT is to help them find a job. Many people don’t understand OT enough.  Some things we do are simple, like finding and taking pills. Other things we do are more complex, like helping clients with computers, video magnifiers, or IPads.

What is your wish list for the next 10 years for VisionCorps?

With the new expansion into York, Adams and Chester Counties, I would hope to see more therapists come on board, to assist more people in the area. I also hope that VisionCorps can continue to get the word out to people, so we can continue to serve every individual in our area that needs our assistance.

Do you have a favorite quote?

“Everything happens for a reason” whether we know what that reason is or not.

What is the one thing you cannot live without?

Dogs! About a year and a half ago we went without dogs at home. One dog was a surprise for us. My husband showed up one day with an Airedale, Zoe. Unexpectedly, we took her in. After adopting Zoe, Enzo the golden doodle joined our family as well!

What is your favorite thing to do in Lancaster or the immediate area?

I like to go hiking in Southern Lancaster County at House Rock, Pinnacle, or Chickie’s Rock. My husband, Tyler, and I also enjoy finding new spots for dinner.