Outdoor-to-indoor noise perception survey of Canadians aging-in-place - preliminary results

Worldwide, the population of aging adults is growing and recent studies in Canada have shown that most older adults would prefer to remain in their own homes as they age. Since indoor environmental quality directly affects the health and well-being of a building occupant, healthy aging in place will depend on the quality of the indoor conditions. Outdoor noise transmitted indoors is not only a cause of annoyance but is also a cause of sleep disturbance and a risk factor for the development of health issues. This paper reports preliminary results concerning outdoor-to-indoor noise perception in the homes of older adults in Canada, based on an online survey completed by over 400 participants from across the country, with 266 valid responses related to sleep and noise. Data related to sleep and noise were investigated and preliminary results showed that hearing noise at specific periods had an effect on sleep. Also, correlations between sleep and noise annoyance ratings were found. These results, together with future field measurements and laboratory studies, may support the development of guidelines for building construction and retrofit that include sound insulation performance of façades, ensuring that aging adults are protected against detrimental effects of outdoor noise sources.