The Erasmus BRIDGE project is a remarkable initiative that brought together participants from different backgrounds - Dutch, Spanish, Transylvanian, Hungarian, Czech and Portuguese - to promote the development of social and digital skills among elderly care workers, older people and young people. This project stands out for its intergenerational cooperation and understanding of cultural diversity, aiming to bridge the gaps between generations through the universal language of food and the evolving digital field.

The organizations participating in the project: M-Around (Hungary) Blankcon (Netherlands), ASS 2050 (Italy), APSS CR (Czech Republic), CREA 360 (Spain), Spektrum (Romania).

BRIDGE is all about defining and articulating basic social and digital skills tailored to the needs of care workers, older people and young people. Recognising the unique challenges faced by these groups, the project has developed comprehensive learning materials that meet their specific needs. By combining social interaction and digital education, BRIDGE aimed to create a holistic learning environment that benefits all participants.

One of the most innovative aspects of the project is the development of scenarios for intergenerational cooking events. These events serve as a platform for young people to interact with their elders, both in real life and virtually. This interaction serves to develop the social skills of the students while promoting the social inclusion of the older generation. Through these cooking events, older people can develop their social and digital skills, engage in activities such as playing games, using online cookbooks and participating in cooking together.

BRIDGE is an innovative way to combine culinary heritage and digital readiness. The young participants are tasked with developing online cookbooks, a process that involves communicating directly with seniors. This exchange not only helps young people to learn values from their elders, but also helps the elders to become more familiar with digital tools and platforms. Training provided by eldercare professionals plays a crucial role in this process, ensuring that older participants are well equipped to navigate the digital world.

An important part of BRIDGE's activities is to collect traditional recipes from different European regions, adapt them to modern nutritional values and prepare them with the elderly. This effort not only preserves and promotes Europe's rich culinary heritage, but also creates a meaningful link between the past and the present. Through these activities, participants will develop a deeper appreciation of cultural traditions, while learning to innovate and adapt them to today's lifestyles.

The impact of BRIDGE goes beyond culinary skills and digital readiness. By fostering meaningful intergenerational interactions, the project promotes social inclusion and combats isolation among older adults. Young people in turn develop empathy, communication skills and a sense of responsibility towards the older generation. The collaborative nature of the project ensures that all participants benefit from a shared learning experience that transcends age and cultural barriers.

BRIDGE, funded by Erasmus EU, is an example of the power of intergenerational and intercultural cooperation. By combining culinary traditions and digital education, the project not only develops social and digital skills, but also enriches the lives of all participants. This innovative approach to learning and social inclusion sets a precedent for future projects, highlighting the importance of preserving cultural heritage while embracing modern technology.

BRIDGE is more than a project; it is a testimony to the enduring value of human connections, shared knowledge and cultural appreciation. Through its well-developed activities and objectives, BRIDGE is poised to make a lasting impact on communities across Europe, fostering a more inclusive and connected society.