First - the wiper blade is held against the glass by one point in its center, the blade is flexible and free to pivot.

If the blade is in good condition and flexible enough, the only thing that matters is the amount of force pushing it toward the glass.

Second - Bending the wiper arm near its base moves the pivot point toward the glass, but the force is applied too far from the pivot point, it is sort of like trying to paddle a canoe by holding only the handle end of the paddle.

If you bend the arm in the middle, the force is better applied, sort of like holding the paddle on its handle AND half way down the shaft.

As an added benefit, bending the blade in the middle means that you are bending the thin steel part, not trying to bend a reinforced cast part, and you do not apply any force to the wiper mechanism.

Draw a diagram of both fixes and you will see what I mean.

Or better yet, try it.

At the risk of getting myself in trouble, I think Bay 13 is great, but incorrect on this one.
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3 8s & 2 7s 740,000 miles total