(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. § 3001 et seq.).