Without a self-directed advance medical plan for a patient, relatives are often asked to step in and act on a loved one's behalf.

CNN: The computer that decides if we live or die

The Center for Retirement Research studied the costs that afflict a typical self-directed 401(k) plan.

FORBES: How To Fix Your Lousy 401(k) Retirement Plan: Pool It, Like a Pension Fund

Roll Over and Die Laughing IBM's momentous decision this month to wind down its traditional pension plan in favor of 401(k)s will no doubt accelerate the movement toward self-directed retirement savings.

FORBES: Roll Over and Die Laughing