IRAs, yes. 401Ks, it depends on your options. If you contribution isn't matched, and all you can invest in is managed funds with loads and high fees, you'll probably be better off keeping it in a taxable account.

But your main point is correct. People should save much more than they do now. And in a world where lots of people carry huge balances on their credit cards at 20% interest, that's probably (sadly) a point people need to have emphasized.