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Senior Health and Wellness

Senior Health and Wellness
Ackerman Cancer Center Celebrates Senior Health and Wellness

May 26, 2021, is National Senior Health and Fitness Day. Ackerman Cancer Center celebrates senior health and wellness every day. Currently, there are more than 46 million adults, aged 65 and older, living in the United States. It is estimated by 2030, 1 in 5 Americans will fall into this age category and the adult population is projected to reach 18 million. [efn_note]  https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/toolkits/aging/1/demographics#:~:text=Today%2C%20there%20are%20more%20than,increase%20by%20almost%2018%20million [/efn_note] There are many factors that influence the aging process. This bulletin will discuss the impact of lifestyle choices on genetics, their influence on person’s lifespan and the onset of age-associated diseases including cancer.

Telomeres are the DNA protein structures found at both ends of each chromosome. They are responsible with protecting the individual’s genetic material. Throughout a person’s life, his or her cells will divide multiple times. Each time a person’s cells divide, the telomeres continue to shorten until they reach a critical point where the cells either die or become cancerous cells. It is similar to having a biological clock to determine the lifespan of cells and organisms. [efn_note] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3370421/ [/efn_note]

Recent studies have shown that our lifestyle choices can affect the speed of telomere shortening, which impacts an individual’s health, rate of aging and lifespan. Short telomeres are associated with an increased risk of loss of life due to coronary heart disease, heart failure, diabetes and osteoporosis. Additionally, there is an increased risk of lung, bladder, gastrointestinal, renal cell and head and neck cancers. [efn_note] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3370421/ [/efn_note]

10 Things Associated with Longer Telomeres
  • Fiber: Boost fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans and nuts. [efn_note] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3370421/ [/efn_note]
  • Avoiding overconsumption of protein: Such proteins include: meats, poultry, seafood, and beans.
  • Choosing plants: Attempt to adopt a plant-based diet rich in antioxidants and omega. [efn_note] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6316700/ [/efn_note]
  • Protein from soy: Try tofu, tempeh and soy milk. [efn_note] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3370421/ [/efn_note]
  • Healthy fats: Incorporate good fats such as olive oil, avocados, fish and nuts. [efn_note] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3370421/ [/efn_note]
  • Eat less: Calorie restriction reduces the excessive production of free radicals and potentially reduces DNA damage. [efn_note] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3370421/ [/efn_note]
  • Stay lean: Obesity increases the production of free radicals and DNA damage. [efn_note] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3370421/ [/efn_note]
  • Daily exercise: Physical activity boosts the body’s antioxidant mechanisms and reduces DNA damage due to free radicals. Exercise elevates the expression of telomere stabilizing proteins, and therefore reduces the pace of aging and age-associated diseases. Visit the CDC website for more information about physical activity for adults. [efn_note] https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/adults/index.htm) [/efn_note]
  • Manage your stress: Acute and chronic stress are associated with shorter telomeres. To reduce stress levels, one should try yoga, meditation or exercise. [efn_note] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3370421/ [/efn_note]
  • Get enough sleep: Sleep duration, rather than sleep quality, is associated with preserving telomere length. Getting at least 7 hours of sleep at night may either protect telomeres from damage or promote restoration on a nightly basis. [efn_note] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3902878/ [/efn_note]
10 Things That Accelerate Telomere Shortening
  • Smoking: Increases oxidative stress (free radical production), DNA damage and telomere shortening. [efn_note] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3370421/ [/efn_note]
  • Heavy drinking: Binge drinking may reduce telomere length. [efn_note] https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-019-38904-0.pdf [/efn_note]
  • Obesity & Waist circumference: Increases oxidative stress (free radical production), DNA damage, and telomere shortening. [efn_note] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3370421/ [/efn_note]
  • Exposure to harmful agents: Workers exposed to certain chemicals (benzene and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, among others) have shorter telomeres based on the number of years they were exposed to those harmful agents, not with their biological age. [efn_note] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3370421/ [/efn_note]
  • Stress: Chronic stress and cortisol exposure shorten telomere length. [efn_note] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3370421/ [/efn_note]
  • Unhealthy diet and certain fats: Consumption of certain fats, especially linoleic acid found in sunflower, safflower, soybean, corn and canola oils, may shorten telomeres. [efn_note] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3370421/ [/efn_note]
  • Processed meats: Consumption of processed meat, but not unprocessed red meat, is associated with shorter telomere length. [efn_note] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5037876/ [/efn_note]
  • Sugar-sweetened beverages: Sugar-sweetened drinks increase oxidative stress and systemic inflammation, both of which shorten telomere length. [efn_note] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4229419/ [/efn_note]
  • Loneliness: Lonelier people have shorter telomeres. [efn_note] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30107521/ [/efn_note]
  • Metabolic syndrome: Metabolic syndrome is associated with oxidative stress and decreased antioxidant protection mechanisms, which predisposes one to telomere length shortening. [efn_note] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26133009/ [/efn_note]

The recipe of the week comes from Five Heart Home.

Brain Healthy Salad

Ingredients for the Red Wine Vinaigrette:

  • 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened red grape juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 to 3 teaspoons honey, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Ingredients for the salad:

  • Dark leafy salad greens (such as baby spinach, baby kale, or other super-food greens)
  • Blueberries
  • Walnut pieces (toasted or raw)

Directions

  1. To prepare the red wine vinaigrette, measure oil, red wine vinegar, grape juice, lemon juice, honey, salt and pepper into a mason jar. Tightly screw on the lid and shake vigorously until everything is thoroughly combined. Alternatively, you may briskly whisk the ingredients together in a medium bowl or blend them in a blender or mini food processor.
  2. Fill a bowl or salad plate with a big pile of leafy greens. Sprinkle blueberries and walnuts over the top. Drizzle with the red wine vinaigrette and toss to combine.

Notes from the author

  • To toast the walnuts, adjust oven rack to the center position and preheat the oven to 350°. Spread the walnut pieces on a sheet pan and bake for 4 to 6 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly toasted, watching carefully to prevent burning. Set aside and allow to cool.
  • You can substitute other berries and nuts for the blueberries and walnuts.
  • You can add a sprinkle of feta cheese or goat cheese to your salad, if you would like.
  • If you think the dressing is sweet enough from the grape juice, you can omit the honey.
  • Store the leftover vinaigrette in the refrigerator, and shake well before use.

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Arlean Marcellus, BS

Physician Liaison

Arlean Marcellus joined Ackerman Cancer Center in March 2023 and leads physician outreach. She builds and strengthens meaningful partnerships with referring physicians, healthcare facilities, and medical groups, driving growth in patient referrals. Arlean holds a degree in Health Science with a concentration in Public Health from the University of North Florida. Beyond her work, she volunteers with Feeding Northeast Florida. In her free time, Arlean enjoys running, roller skating, and spending time with her family.
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Shelby Goodman, MSW

Oncology Social Worker

Shelby Goodman joined the Ackerman Cancer Center team in January 2023 as the oncology social worker. She earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work from the University of North Florida and went on to become a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). With over five years of experience supporting individuals and families in the social work field, her practice focuses on psychosocial support, care coordination, and advocacy to enhance the quality of life for patients and their loved ones. Shelby is a member of the Florida Society of Oncology Social Workers (FSOSW). In her free time, she enjoys reading and spending time with her family and dog.
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Kali Molter, MBA

Community Relations Specialist

Kali Molter joined Ackerman Cancer Center in August 2024 and supports community outreach, marketing initiatives, and engagement efforts. She holds both a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Business Administration in marketing from the University of North Florida. A Jacksonville native and Bishop Kenny alum, Kali is passionate about contributing to and strengthening the local community. She brings experience in hospitality and event management and serves on the Jacksonville Chamber’s NEXTUP JAX Professional Development and Community Engagement committees. Outside of work, Kali enjoys living at the beach, running and yoga, traveling, and is a lifelong Jacksonville Jaguars fan.

Ceilidgh O'Brien, BS

Patient Relations Manager

Ceilidgh O’Brien is the patient relations manager at Ackerman Cancer Center, where she leads the patient relations team and helps ensure every patient experience is organized, supportive, and welcoming. She oversees scheduling and communications and is passionate about creating efficient processes that help patients and staff feel informed, supported, and cared for. Ceilidgh earned a Bachelor of Science in health sciences from the University of South Florida in 2024 and values building strong, compassionate connections with both patients and colleagues. A Boston native, Ceilidgh traded snow for sunshine and now spends her free time running with friends and supporting the Jacksonville Humane Society.
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Tiffany Vaughn, RT (R)(T)

Manager, Radiation Therapy & Imaging

Tiffany Vaughn brings extensive experience and steady leadership to Ackerman Cancer Center, with 24 years of service to the practice. For the past 15 years, she has served in leadership roles, overseeing both radiation therapy and imaging departments with a focus on quality care, collaboration, and operational excellence. Tiffany is a proud member of the American Society of Radiologic Technologists and the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. She earned her technologist degree from St. Vincent's Medical Center and completed radiation therapy training from Washburn University. Outside of work, Tiffany enjoys spending time with her family, relaxing in or around the water, and taking on hands-on projects around her home.
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Vivienne Bennett, MS, RT(R)(M)​

Clinic Manager

Vivienne Bennett joined Ackerman Cancer Center in November 2013 as a mammography technologist and was promoted in 2021 to oncology clinic manager, overseeing clinical operations across all four locations. She provides leadership for daily clinic operations, supports multidisciplinary oncology teams, ensures regulatory and accreditation compliance, and implements operational strategies to improve quality, safety, and patient experience. Vivienne holds a master’s degree in medical radiation sciences from the University of Sydney in Australia and is a member of the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Outside of work, she enjoys watching sports, walking, and spending time with friends and family.
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Timothy Scott, RTR, RTT, CMD

Manager, Dosimetry, Facilities, & Research

Tim Scott joined Ackerman Cancer Center in 2003 and brings nearly 40 years of experience in radiation oncology and medical dosimetry operations. He oversees medical dosimetry, facilities, special projects, and research and has played a key role in nearly every building project and major technology launch at the center. Tim is passionate about innovation and the development, construction, and commissioning of advanced treatment technologies, including proton therapy. Beyond his professional work, Tim serves as a worship pastor and is a brass musician. In his free time, he enjoys restoring classic cars and spending time on the lake.
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Greg Sarkisov, BS

Director of Information Technology

Greg Sarkisov joined Ackerman Cancer Center in September 2019 and oversees all facets of information technology and information security within the organization. Greg has over twenty years of experience in information technology and security. With over six of those years in our practice, he has led initiatives to strengthen our core security and expand the use of various technologies to help aid our staff in providing effective and efficient patient care. Greg holds a Bachelor of Science degree in information systems security from ITT Technical Institute. Outside of work, he stays active in the community and is a member of the IT Council with the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce. In his free time, Greg enjoys spending time with his family and friends.
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Jennifer Zelaya, MHA

Director of Human Resources

Jenny Zelaya is the director of human resources at Ackerman Cancer Center and Ackerman Urology, where she oversees all HR functions and fosters a positive, inclusive workplace culture. She holds a master’s degree in health administration from the University of Miami and brings extensive experience in talent management, employee engagement, and regulatory compliance. Fluent in Spanish, Jennifer enjoys staying active outside of work, playing pickleball, golfing with friends and family, and spending time with her golden retriever, Lenny.
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Amy Mousa, CPA

Director of Finance and Accounting

Amy Mousa joined Ackerman Cancer Center in November 2021 and serves as the director of finance and accounting. In her role, she oversees financial operations and supports the organization’s strategic and operational goals. Amy holds a Florida CPA license and earned her Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting from the University of North Florida. Outside of work, she enjoys staying active, traveling, and spending quality time with her family.
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Nelson Miksys, PhD, MCCPM

Chief Medical Physicist

Nelson Miksys joined Ackerman Cancer Center in October 2019. As chief medical physicist, Nelson manages the medical physics department, which is responsible for
quality assurance of all patient treatment plans, calibration of the radiation therapy equipment, maintenance of the radiation safety program, integration of new technology
into the clinic, and providing clinical technical support across all aspects of the cancer center. Nelson has over ten years of experience as a medical physicist and comes to Ackerman Cancer Center from The Ottawa Hospital Cancer Centre (Ottawa, Canada). Nelson has a PhD in medical physics from Carleton University (Ottawa, Canada) and a
master’s degree in medical and health physics from McMaster University (Hamilton,
Canada). Outside of work, Nelson is actively involved in his children’s sports activities and community social events and is passionate about maintaining a healthy lifestyle through regular physical fitness and outdoor activities.

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Robert Tokarz, MS, DABR

Vice President, Technical Services

Rob Tokarz joined Ackerman Cancer Center in January 2014 and oversees the Physics, Dosimetry, Therapy, Imaging, IT, and Transcription departments. He holds a Bachelor of Science in physics from Notre Dame and a Master of Science in medical physics from Columbia University. Rob has worked in the field of medical physics for 25 years and has worked previously at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Prior to his career in medical physics, Rob was an officer in the United States Navy, where he attained the rank of lieutenant commander. As a naval aviator, he flew Seahawk
helicopters out of Naval Station Mayport and was stationed overseas in Bahrain.

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Gigi Ackerman Schwartz, MBA

Vice President, Operations

Gigi Ackerman Schwartz joined Ackerman Cancer Center in November 2020 and leads strategic planning initiatives across all departments, directs all aspects of revenue cycle management, and works to develop and maintain relationships with community partners. Gigi holds an MBA from Tulane University. A Jacksonville native, she is involved in several local charitable and civic organizations. She serves as chair of the Art in Public Places Committee for the Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville, is a member of the National Young Leadership Cabinet, and is a trustee of the Jewish Community Alliance and Jacksonville Jewish Center. In her free time, Gigi enjoys playing mahjong, exploring new hobbies with friends, and spending time with her husband and two-year-old daughter.

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Baylee Richter, BS

Community Relations Manager

Baylee Richter joined Ackerman Cancer Center in November 2024 and oversees digital campaigns, brand strategy, and community outreach and engagement. With more than eight years of experience in events and marketing, she has led initiatives that strengthen patient engagement, community awareness, and referral growth. Baylee holds a Bachelor of Science in hospitality and tourism management from Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania. Outside of work, she stays actively involved in the community through her service on the board of the American Lung Association. She also supports the American Cancer Society’s Cowford Ball as a member of the children’s art project committee and contributes to the Jacksonville Chamber’s NEXTUP JAX program, serving on two committees. In her free time, Baylee enjoys spending time with her Australian Shepherd, Cooper, and cheering on the Pittsburgh Steelers.