I often walk with a cane, and am always put into a priority lane when I do. Likely they'll do that automatically, but I agree that a wheelchair assist or some kind of mobility support would be helpful as the distance can be quite a lot. If you alert the airline in advance and again when checking in that you need assistance, they may also manage a tram.
Anywhere east and northeast of the Heroines Monument is still low-development. As for Krabi and Koh Lanta, I can't really say. I'm looking into Pha Nga myself.
agreed. I think in my year a of living in and visiting Phuket, I've been to Patong maybe 5 times and only for dentist or tailor because other locations were booked. It's a pity since that area was really beautiful once.
to consider Phuket, rather than Koh Samui. Samui is really pricey with extra cost for the airport anytime you fly in. (Edit: just read the post above about Samui resident airfares, so this argument is not valid any longer!!) The north side of Phuket is still very green, and there is a large, multicultural expat community (many of whom are long-termers).
I'd recommend taking some time to stay in each location and chat up some local expats to see which you feel most comfortable in.