the rigging can fail at ANY time after its installed, but quality rigging in its normal working environment should last a minimum of 10 years, which is the reason for the "general" 10 year recommendation... it can, and usually will last a considerable amount longer, but if there is any doubt the cost of replacing it NOW, vs. the cost of repairing the boat, buying a new mast and new rigging AFTER the failure gives every indication that sooner is better than later.
a qualified rigging inspector can give you some peace of mind as to what condition it is in, and what you should do, when he looks at it... it may be ok to run another few years before another inspection is necessary. but you dont know until its inspected...
if you were to do your own research on sailboat rigging inspection, you could look at it yourself and see if there are any obvious indications that it needs replaced NOW, without the need of a professional inspection.
BUT... if there are no obvious indicators, then older rigging needs to be professionally inspected with a trained eye that can find any hidden problems that arent obvious.. more than the money itself, its about risk vs gain, which in the end could include a life, other peoples property/boat, and at the very least, MORE money.