The sensory impairment we identified can be interpreted as diminished light touch that interfered with fine motor skills, while protective sensation was preserved. The finger pads and palm detect information about shape, weight and texture when first handling objects, in addition to that provided by sight. As part of the aging process individuals may lose the ability to detect the 0.07 g monofilament and this has been described as having minimal impact, so that it may not be noticed. But if individuals lose the ability to detect the 0.2 g monofilament, then the impact on the hands is greater, resulting in difficulty manipulating some objects and a tendency to drop objects. The descriptions are supported by the relationship between greater tactile deficits and slower performance of dexterity that we have previously reported.