My original access to lounges was paid for by me, back in the early 90s, as it was best for work purposes. I used the work stations, fax machine etc, and being able to leave my gear without worrying about it being nicked was reassuring. The showers, food and beverages were a pleasant extra.
Nowadays lounges are a lot different, with access to those with status and not necessarily for work - which isn't a bad thing as I'm due to retire in a few years and managed to tick over to LTG. Although, if you see a couple having bubbles in the morning at a lounge, that's MrsK and me heading off on holidays - it's one of our rituals.