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To test the validity of published guidelines on the height of seating for the elderly, ambulant residents in three Social Services' Homes were asked to rise from their usual chairs and from a chair conforming to the guidelines. When both seat and arm height were at recommended levels, 77% of those who were usually chair-fast could rise unaided. More agile residents also benefited, as they could rise with less difficulty. Though mobility decreased with age, those who failed to benefit were distinguished by advanced brain failure rather than age. Some aspects of cost are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]