# Evaluating Resilience and Thermal Comfort in Mediterranean Dwellings: A Level(s) Framework Approach
## 3 Results
### Assessment of Time Outside the Thermal Comfort Range for Elderly Individuals  
This section provides a comprehensive analysis of the simulation and calculation results aimed at evaluating the thermal comfort zone for elderly individuals and predicting the duration of time spent outside this comfort range in the specific case study. Figure 3 illustrates the comfort range graph generated by the CBE Thermal Comfort Tool, which is based on a metabolic energy index of 0.7 met. This index is particularly relevant for elderly or vulnerable populations, considering Malaga's specific climatic conditions. The resulting comfort range is identified as being between 24.5 \({}^{\circ}\)C and 32 \({}^{\circ}\)C.  
However, it is important to note that the findings from the simulation indicate that this comfort range does not align with the EN-16798 standard [34]. The EN-16798 standard specifies a minimum metabolic rate of 0.8 met, which needs to be adequately covered by the current comfort range derived from the simulation. This discrepancy highlights a significant concern regarding the thermal comfort of elderly individuals in Malaga, as the established range may not provide sufficient comfort or safety for this demographic. Figure 3: Thermal comfort range for the elderly. In conclusion, the assessment underscores the necessity for further investigation and potential adjustments to the thermal comfort parameters to ensure they meet the standards required for the well-being of elderly populations. Addressing these gaps is crucial for enhancing vulnerable groups' living conditions and overall health in varying climatic contexts. An analysis was conducted to evaluate a winter scenario in which the dwelling was heated according to the heating setpoints outlined in the Spanish Technical Building Code (2019). This analysis was compared to a setpoint temperature derived from the previously established comfort range. Figure 4 illustrates the predicted percentage of discomfort experienced by occupants at two distinct heating setpoints: 21 \({}^{\circ}\)C, the maximum permitted by the Spanish Technical Building Code, and 24.5 \({}^{\circ}\)C, the minimum within the identified comfort range. The findings reveal a significant disparity in occupant comfort levels at these two temperatures. Specifically, 73% of individuals reported experiencing discomfort at the 21 \({}^{\circ}\)C setpoint. In contrast, only 9.5% of individuals reported discomfort when the temperature was set to 24.5 \({}^{\circ}\)C.  
These results underscore the importance of aligning heating practices with comfort standards, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly. The data suggest that adhering to the higher comfort setpoint not only enhances the overall well-being of residents but also significantly reduces the percentage of individuals who experience discomfort during the winter months. This analysis highlights the need to reevaluate current heating regulations to accommodate the thermal comfort requirements of occupants better, ultimately promoting healthier living environments. A comparable analysis was conducted for a summer scenario, focusing on the cooling setpoint temperatures as a benchmark for occupant comfort. Figures 4 and 5 present the predicted percentage of discomfort experienced by individuals at two specific cooling setpoints: 25 \({}^{\circ}\)C, the minimum temperature mandated by the Spanish Technical Building Code, and 27.5 \({}^{\circ}\)C, which falls within a more comfortable range. This analysis reveals a significant difference in discomfort levels between the two temperatures. At the 25 \({}^{\circ}\)C setpoint, 65.5% of individuals reported experiencing discomfort. This high percentage indicates that the minimum cooling temperature established by the code may not adequately address the thermal comfort needs of occupants during the hotter  
Figure 4: Comparison of predicted percentage of discomfort under heating temperature set points of 21 \({}^{\circ}\)C and 24.5 \({}^{\circ}\)C.  
months.