Water Softener Pressure

Can anyone with Elan water softener, help with my predicament. The pressure at several of my faucets is low. By passing the water softener fixes it. The tech, who came in.. essentially told me that since, I do not have de-chlorinator, the resin beads are damaged and he has first replace them, and then also add a de-chlorinator unit. But since, my system has not had one for over 8 years, chances are that all the valves will probably fail soon. So, the better option is to go with their newer unit. The first option of replacing the resin and adding the de-chlorinator itself is ~ $2000 and the replacement is ~ $4000.
I called a plumber from the insurance company and his take was that there are probably screens that needs to be cleaned. My question is

1. Do the beads go bad and is there a danger they can be pushed into my home plumbing system?
2. Are there screens in softener unit that can get clogged up to reduce the pressure/

I understand each one is motivated to provide a solution that best fits their company! and all I want is an honest answer.

Thanks for the help

Kumar

1. Yes and yes.
2. Yes.

chlorination is bad for the resin.