Well Whirly, like most of the others I agree with your reasoning.
I obtained my licence PPL in '66 (in 'KF no less!), but was unable to keep it going (1 hour of rent was about 1 week's wages
).
Having now reached the age of more money than sense I regained it several years ago, and have been trying to do at least 30 hours/year to keep current.
However, as you listed, I can't easily hire an aircraft for the day, I can't afford to buy one (well, I could but its not justifiable). I want to get an IMC rating but can't use it outside UK. I would love to get an IR but consider it (realistically) unacheivable.
So, I am left with the occasional grab at a flight whe the wx is good enough, and no-one else has the 'plane, allowing a brief trip around the houses and back.
And I'm getting bored!
I could have gone up today (just), but I went up yesterday for a bimble, and really didn't feel like repeating the same thing again.
There are few others around who share an interest in private flying, and will share a flight with me.
The 'club' isn't! Its a place to pick up the 'plane and leave after.
So yes, you're right, on about all accounts.
GB