Expansions aren't quite the same thing, they don't happen constantly and generally come with enough content for that progression push on their own. Making content dated almost as soon as it comes out (like 3-4 months) makes that content feel increasingly pointless for people trying to push it. Why try now, when you can take a short break and come back and just roll through it? People will do what is most efficient, if presented a hard road and easy road to the exact same destination, they will take the easy one, because that is more efficient and makes more sense. Sometimes, that challenge needs to be actually pushed onto players for them to properly enjoy it.

I think they should make old "progression" faster with new content releases but not easier. Rewards can be raised, caps like myth can be raised etc. I feel this is a better medium that doesn't shut out new players but doesn't make effort meaningless.

As for people that literally do not have the skills to make it to the end endgame content...I'm sorry but not every game can be, or should be, made for everyone. The changes to accommodate them in turn reduce the fun of others who enjoyed it the way it was. There are jobs and hobbies alike in real life that you can want but not have the skills for and will simply be out of your reach. These days there are a huge variety of games to choose from, there are easier mmo's and probably harder ones too if you looked. If you try please everyone at once, its gonna fall apart. You need to know your target and stick to them, with some wiggle room for others.

Dark souls isn't gonna be made easier for players who hate hard games, likewise many games wont be made harder for players like me who only want a challenge. I don't go on their forums and whine about how easy it is and demand a harder difficulty.