The wires pull open or shut the claws on the end of the reacher. In most reachers, you must keep light pressure on the trigger to continue gripping. However, because it is difficult for many people to keep squeezing the trigger while holding an object, some reachers are self-closing, or have a locking mechanism to hold the jaws closed. Persons with very limited hand strength or dexterity might prefer an automatic trigger, which activates the jaws at the touch of a button. Some reachers operate by wrist action, so no finger movement is necessary.
Magnets provide additional ease for picking up small objects, such as pins and paper clips.
Adhesive discs generally pick up items that are difficult to grasp with pinchers, like paper. Some reachers have a hook, useful for opening drawers, pushing buttons, or dressing. Other Features Reachers come with a variety of optional features and accessories. Some reachers fold or retract into a smaller size for easy storage or hanging from a wheelchair. A few are portable enough to carry in a purse or pocket.