Personally, I think it's because I'm using an iPhone 5, and Apple would like to sell me a new phone. So, they're deliberately trying to make life miserable for owners of older phones.
Probably not the news you want to hear, Bob, but I too am using an up to date iPhone 5, and AFAIK, it works as well as the day it was new.
About 3 years ago, there was recall/free fix of some sort. Sorry, I don't recall the specifics, but maybe that "fix" will also resolve your problem. A slim chance, but worth a try (IMNHO). And as part of that recall, Apple installs a new (free) battery.
