I have been pulled out of a boarding line because I use a cane (recent UA flight NRT>SFO). Was very surprised to have been offered to board early. I did appreciate it, but did not insist on priority boarding because of this (I'm 52, so a bit of ways to go to 65).

I do find the cane keeps people away from me (possibly knocking me over because my balance is bad as a below knee amputee with a prosthetic foot). Especially helpful when little kids try to dart about grabbing onto anything or anybody or just with getting bumped by carry-ons and clueless people that shove other people. If I see them coming I tap my cane to get their attention to stay away and it works very well for that too - I've been known to aim at their feet if they are texting or not paying attention they are about to run into me

There are canes with seats built in for those times you might need to provide your own help if you need it. Relying on the airlines to take care of us is a mistake. I believe in self help as much as possible.