To be fair, this is taken from a public edition WT magazine. That said, one shouldn't expect it to mention anything about the elders, or other JWs lending a hand. To say its a proven fact that elders won't assist ones with disabilities or other situations is a gross generalization. That's not to say there aren't elders like that, but to lump them all in the same boat and call it a proven fact is to be quite honest, ridiculous. I can relate quite a few personal experiences and those of other elders and other JWs that have assisted disabled and elderly JWs. It should also be mentioned that the primary responsibility of taking care of such ones rests with relatives be it spouse, children, siblings, etc.. Also, the part about one who would render themself unable to care for their sick mate should be taken in context. To isolate that one sentence doesn't do justice to the point that the writer was setting up with that paragraph, which is as follows,
"At times, balance becomes a problem for caregiving spouses. Some take on too much work, slowly wear down, and endanger their own health. Eventually, they may even render themselves unable to continue providing care for their beloved mate. So if you are taking care of a chronically ill spouse, do not ignore your personal needs. Set aside regular quiet time to refresh yourself. * Some have found it therapeutic to talk out their anxieties from time to time with a trusted friend of the same sex."
Afterwards it gives practical advice on dealing with the preceding scenario, whether you agree with it or not. I hear where you're coming from Gayle, but be fair.