AN ELDERLY dementia sufferer who tried to kill herself, and allegedly her husband, has been sent to jail because state and federal authorities have been unable to find accommodation for her in the community.

The woman's guardian, the Office of the Public Advocate, has condemned the jailing as a breach of her human rights.

Police escorted the Greek-born woman, 75, who speaks little English and is clinically depressed, to the high-security Dame Phyllis Frost Centre on Monday. She is living in the jail's psychiatric unit while awaiting a committal hearing.

Acting Public Advocate Barbara Carter said the woman's situation was "appalling" and reflected severe gaps in the medical and community care systems.

"She needs care and supervision. She should not be in jail," Ms Carter said. "We believe she may be a risk to herself and others … If she did not have dementia and depression, it is likely she would be at home on bail."