Following ...

My wife was Gold for two years and we were upgraded together maybe once. She would appear on the upgrade list but far below.

I would often get skipped at the gate for upgrades because a gold was on the same PNR. Ie. They would upgrade two EXP flyers instead.

At airport she would get EXP provledges ala bags etc. But I assume those would be provided whether or not she had status

(Excited that my wife is now platnium pro!)