I use them to grab tiny things and do things to tiny things my fingers can't do. Like get the small thing that holds earrings on and off so the earring actually stays. Putting keys (or the thing at the end of a zipper) inside a keychain, I could never do that with my nails cut short. Also need them to get the plastic off of dvd box covers, could never do those without having to find something sharp if my nails couldn't do any damage. Sometimes I have trouble taking my contact lenses out if my nails are too short, but it's just as difficult if they get too long. I also paint them and make them look pretty to match whatever I'm wearing.

Also, don't you notice that if you cut your nails a little too short, your finger starts to hurt? My sister says hers bleed if she cut the nail too short. Maybe it's better to ask why is the skin under the nail too soft and delicate and need cover?