PERSONS TO BE SERVED.

(a) The Options for Independent Living program shall give priority to an elderly person who:

(1) has recently suffered a major illness or health care crisis or has recently been hospitalized;

(2) lives in a rural area;

(3) has insufficient caregiver support;

(4) has a mild to moderate impairment or a temporary severe impairment; and

(5) is in great economic or social need, with particular attention to low-income minority older persons.

(b) In awarding funding under this subchapter, the department shall serve priority populations consistent with the Older Americans Act of 1965 (42 U.S.C. Section 3001 et seq.).