It's disappointing, but apparently that (a new phone) is the only thing people can tell about that. (I just recently did a repost under https://discussions.apple.com/thread/251223450 as well)
Throw away all your devices and buy new ones... Increase the electronic scrap...
I mean, we're not talking about iOS 10 or 11, but just one release below the current one. It get's supplied with security fixes and feature enhancements - and apparently bugs (the ghost badges came with 12.5.2), but no resolution for those within two updates?
(yes, although I don't have the issue, my countenance reduces with every month and post as I'm the tech guy, i.e. the one who has to get this resolved)
My girlfriend has a 5S (latest ed., 12.5.4 is the max), and she wouldn't have the watch if I wouldn't have bought it. After about two years of enjoyment, she's really disappointed now as she fulfills every challenge (perfect months and monthly specials) and has no visible reward. She definitely won't buy any new device (phone or watch), and after three months she starts to even thinks of turning away from Apple... Really sad, as I dragged her away from Android.
NB: She likes to have "a phone, not a slate", so as long as there is no new iPhone in 5S/SE size, new hardware from Apple is not an option.