Sound perception of older adults in open public spaces in Madrid

21st-century cities must adapt to the challenges posed by population ageing. The soundscape plays a key role in shaping overall comfort in public spaces; however, its evaluation is complex due to the multiple factors involved, including the physical properties of sound, contextual conditions, and listeners’ individual characteristics. This study aims to examine the relationship between soundscape perceptions in older adults and measured sound levels, to identify the factors associated with these perceptions, and to determine older adults’ sound preferences in open public spaces. A mixed-methods approach was applied, combining sound-level measurements with interviews conducted among senior visitors in three public spaces in Madrid. Data analysis included statistical tests such as chi-square and Spearman correlation. The results indicate that perceived noise among older adults is not correlated with measured sound levels. Age, location, and season were identified as the main factors associated with noise perception. Mechanical sounds generated by traffic were rated as the most unpleasant. Despite sound levels exceeding international standards, most participants considered the overall acoustic environment to be pleasant. This tolerance may be physiologically related to age-related hearing decline and psychologically to adjusted expectations; however, prolonged exposure to high sound levels may still pose health risks. Further research is needed to guide the design of comfortable and inclusive public spaces through soundscape planning, thereby contributing to improved quality of life.