My profile also states room required away from elevator and like you we always end up at the end of the hallway. We like these rooms as they are usually quieter and you tend not to get the noisy passing guests waking you up at all hours.
I have the same notation. But it seems like very few actually observe my request. Or they are confused. I have often had a room next to or across from the elevator. And this includes hotels w/low occupancies!
As a light sleeper, I will call down and make them switch me. They can ALWAYS find a room. Hmmmm....