I use a cane all of the time, even when I feel ok. When I begin my day., I never know exactly how much I'll be walking it if I will step wrong and hurt a joint. A cane helps.
When I fly, I get a wheelchair at the airport. (I also tell the airline in advance that I'll need a wheelchair). I cannot walk the distances in an airport or rush between gates when I must change planes. Security is often a issue, because not only do I have the full body scan, remove shoes like everyone else, but I'm always patted down, have the wand room over me and my hands are checked for explosive residue.
I guess that is a low price to pay. I do get to preboard and I have help with bags and transferring. Just have plenty of bills for tips.