Note: This Post was previously published and has been updated with current content.
You don’t realize how many everyday tasks require the use of a pincher grip until you don’t have one. To clarify, I have pinchers (fingers). It’s the gripping part that doesn’t cooperate.
Although I try to be positive and live my best life despite having peripheral neuropathy, it’s the small things that can be the most frustrating and get me off my groove. Btw, if you have no clue who I am, or what I have, start here.
When you don’t have a pincher grip due to fine muscle weakness, it’s very difficult to pick up dropped change, crumbs of food, and basically any other small and flat item.
Although I do own one of those long grabber sticks that help people with a weak grasp reach and pick up things, my problem is just that I have a weak pincher grip and not bending down. Frankly, I can use all the exercise I can get.
So, I was pretty pumped when I discovered that I could repurpose a lint brush to be a mini grabber device. They come in a ton of sizes and the handles are typically large and easy to hold onto. As an added bonus, they are super cheap. You can find them at any dollar store, or here are the mini ones I buy on Amazon to put in my pocketbook.
What do you think? Do you have any tips or hacks of your own? I would love to hear. Btw, if you have neuropathy, you may appreciate my post here. I give tips that only a Girlfriend would tell you about living with peripheral neuropathy.
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What a fabulous idea to use a lint brush! Thank you! I also often just leave things on the floor rather than struggling. I recently found you (on Pinterest) and love all your ideas, etc., but most of all your upbeat attitude. I also have CMT.
Hi Deb,
Thank you so much for your fabulous message! I get leaving things on the floor as sometimes it’s not worth it. We have to pick our battles right? Pinterest is the fas thank you so much for your fabulous message! I get leaving things on the floor as sometimes it’s not worth it. We have to pick our battles right? Pinterest is the best! Do you happen to remember what you search for when you stumbled upon me? I have no idea how to do marketing so I like it when things I try actually work ? . I hope to see you on our Facebook Page so we can virtually meet.
If I drop change and people are around me I say it’s a message from my dearly departed Grandma. She never picked up change from the ground because she said there are others who need it more than we do =)
I love the lint brush roller idea. I also use a long piece of scotch tape. In fact i used it this morning to pick up a wrapped protein bar that I dropped on the floor. Just cut a long piece of tape and bend down just a bit it afix it to whatever and pick up your dropped items. Works like a charm (unless it’s heavy like a book) =)
Gayle,
I am so so sorry for this late response. It sounds like your grandma was a fabulous person! I love that. The scotch tape is also a great idea. Keep em coming ?. Did you sign up for the newsletter? I would love to also connect on our Facebook page . Have a great weekend! Lainie
Hi Lotte,
I have had a similar change nightmare before. Have you read my Fight with a Parking Meter Post? ????Thank you for your your great comment. I carry a scissors also in my purse for sugar packets.
Like Joy, if i drop change when I’m out, I often pretend not to notice 😉 I have stopped using cash now because receiving the coins (change) they all slip through my fingers! I’m actually laughing right now remembering receiving my change at the local starbucks, and the handful of toonies, loonies, quarters and dimes fell all over the counter and floor. I was certain my hand was ready to receive the change. certain, but not very realistic, lol!
I love the sticky-roller idea for dropped items at home or out! I’d whip that thing out of my purse and roll up whatever whenever because it’s better than yet again asking for help. In fact that reminds me, I’m going to start bringing my own sugar cubes to restaurants that have those little paper packets!
Good idea for around the house, but I don’t think I’d pull one out at Starbucks when I drop a handful of change on the floor while trying to funnel it into the coin section of my wallet. In that situation, I’ve pretty much become an expert at acting like “that didn’t just happen” or “it’s just a little bit of change, someone else can pick it up” (LOL). Lainie, thanks for all that you do – not just providing great ideas, but for making me feel like I’m not in this alone. xo
??? Thanks Joy – I need to create an on the go discreet version. I appreciate your support always.