Lifespan of Recordable Media

I recently read this article in PC World's AnswerLine column with interest. As someone who relies on CD/DVD backup for photos, documents, and video, the expected lifespan of recordable media concerns me. Although there seems to be some conflicting opinions on the issue, this article sheds some additional light:

Answer Line: Will My CD-R and DVD+R Discs Still Run in 10 Years? (external link to PCWorld.com)