I can only help with the “pin cushion” fingers. I went to the office supply and for a couple dollars I bought finger cots that are sold for sorting through papers. I can put one on my middle finger on the right to push the needle with, and on the index on the left to use under the quilt. I have recently “discovered” leather thimbles that do the same thing and might last longer, but cheap is good for now. I can get a new one as they wear through. They are three to a pack of all blue for the silicone ones. I haven’t got the leather ones yet.
I have one of these thimbles and they fit my stubby finger well, I just need to pick up another. I looked at the ones with the metal insert, but I have to be able to “feel” the needle so they would not work for me but I bet they would last forever.
https://www.amazon.com/Dritz-3066-Le...ather+thimbles