Crocheting while hanging out?

I was thinking about this the other day and was wondering what others thought.

For the last year I have basically been non-stop crocheting in my free time. I've been enjoying using it as a fidget/stim.

Over Christmas I brought my crocheting with me because I found it makes it easier for me to socialize and I generally feel less bored/overstimulated. I got quite a few comments from people teasing me about being a "grandma" and tbh I had the sense they were kind of annoyed I was doing it.

I also tend to bring it to work meetings and my boss is super supportive probably because my engagement had improved.

Personally, I love having something to do while hanging out/chatting. I feel like it helps me be present in the conversation. I do worry about how other people percieve it, especially during social hang-outs.

Do you being projects to work on while you are socializing? Does anyone say anything about it?