And then I started wondering about an actual lift up cover. Then I went down the path of maybe I only need to get to a couple of things... So a swivel cover over some finger holes might work.

I have a robust guard over it now, but it is only a "cage" more to keep one from bumping into it. I have the same thing for my throttle/gearshift lever (although I keep banging my ankles on the corners of that thing... )

In the short term, a sunbrella cover is quick and easy.