Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract] Schedule Of Income From Discontinued Operations Schedule of Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures [Table Text Block] Marketable Securities [Abstract] Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis Available-for-sale Securities, Equity Securities Available-for-sale Securities, Equity Securities Real Estate [Abstract] Summary of NHC Percentage Rent [Table Text Block] Summary of NHC Percentage Rent [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the components of NHC's percentage rent recognized during a reporting period, which consists of the prior and current year. Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block] Summary of NHC Percentage Rent (Details) [Abstract] Summary of NHC Percentage Rent (Details) [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Investment [Axis] Investment [Axis] Investment [Domain] Investment [Domain] Current year [Member] Final Determination Based On Current Year Revenues [Member] This item represents the current year revenues and distinguishes it from prior years.. Prior year final certification [Member] Final Determination Based On Prior Year Revenues [Member] Final determination based on prior year revenues [Member] Customer [Axis] Customer [Axis] Customer [Domain] Customer [Domain] National Healthcare Corporation [Member] National Healthcare Corporation [Member] National HealthCare Corporation [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Total percentage rent Operating Leases, Income Statement, Percentage Revenue Real Estate Disclosure [Text Block] Real Estate Disclosure [Text Block] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax Cash flows from operating activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Net income Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation Depreciation, Nonproduction Amortization Amortization Of Financing Costs, Exclusive Of Amounts Written Off Amortization of financing costs exclusive of amounts written off due to a restructuring of in-place debt instruments Straight-line rental income Straight Line Rent Write-off of debt issuance costs Write off of Deferred Debt Issuance Cost Loan and realty losses Loan and Lease Losses and Recoveries, Net This item represents the amount of loan and realty impairments net of any applicable gains or recoveries. Share-based compensation Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Income from equity-method investee Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Change in operating assets and liabilities: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Equity-method investment and other assets Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Accounts payable and accrued expenses Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Deferred income Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Revenue Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Cash flows from investing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Investment in mortgage and other notes receivable Payments to Acquire Mortgage Notes Receivable Collection of mortgage and other notes receivable Proceeds from Sale and Collection of Mortgage Notes Receivable Investment in real estate Payments to Acquire Real Estate Investment in real estate development Payments to Develop Real Estate Assets Investment in renovations of existing real estate Payments for Capital Improvements Receipt of earnest money deposit Increase (Decrease) in Earnest Money Deposits Outstanding Payment of real estate purchase liability Cash Paid In Settlement Of Contingent Purchase Consideration Liability This item represents the cash paid in settlement of a contingent purchase consideration liability. Net cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Cash flows from financing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Net change in borrowings under revolving credit facilities Line of Credit Facility, Increase (Decrease), Net Proceeds from convertible senior notes Proceeds from Convertible Debt Borrowings on term loan Proceeds from Bank Debt Payments on term loans Repayments of Long-term Debt Debt issuance costs Payments of Debt Issuance Costs Proceeds from exercise of stock options Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised Distributions to noncontrolling interest Payments to Noncontrolling Interests Dividends paid to stockholders Payments of Dividends Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities (Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and cash equivalents, end of year Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information: Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Interest Paid Interest Paid Supplemental schedule of non-cash investing and financing activities: Noncash Investing and Financing Items [Abstract] Tax deferred exchange funds applied to investment in real estate Payments for (Proceeds from) Delayed Tax Exempt Exchange Conditional consideration in asset acquisition Other Significant Noncash Transaction, Value of Consideration Given Accounts payable related to investments in real estate Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Value of Liabilities Assumed Assumption of debt in real estate acquisition Additions Through Assumption Of Debt Amount of increase to real estate investments during the period that can be attributed through assumption of debt. Assignment of net assets in equity-method investee Net Assets Received In Acquisition of Equity-Method Investee Net Assets Received In Acquisition of Equity-Method Investee Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Fundamental Long Term Care Holdings [Member] Fundamental Long Term Care Holdings [Member] This member represents Fundamental Long Term Care Holdings, LLC and its affiliates, a significant tenant. Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Name [Domain] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Name [Domain] Weatherly Associates [Member] Weatherly Associates [Member] Weatherly Associates [Member] Discontinued operations per common share, basic Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations and Disposal of Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share Number of Real Estate Properties Number of Real Estate Properties Asset Sold, Selling Price Significant Acquisitions and Disposals, Acquisition Costs or Sale Proceeds Expected Annual Rental Income Expected Annual Rental Income This item represents the expected annual billed rental income exclusive of any GAAP adjustment to recognize straight-line rental income. Gain on sale of real estate Gain (Loss) on Sale of Properties, Net of Applicable Income Taxes Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Rental Income Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Rental Income Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Income Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Income Income from discontinued operations Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Discontinued operations per common share Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations and Disposal of Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Revenue Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Revenue Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Common stock, par value Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, shares authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, shares issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common stock, shares outstanding Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Earnings Per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Discontinued Operations Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block] Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gain Fannie Mae term loans - secured (including a premium of $1,756) Long-term Debt Investment In Preferred Stock, At Cost [Abstract] INVESTMENT IN PREFERRED STOCK, AT COST [Abstract] Investment [Table] Investment [Table] Investment Type [Axis] Investment Type [Axis] Investments [Domain] Investments [Domain] Preferred Dividends [Member] Preferred Dividends [Member] Preferred Dividends [Member] Investment income and other Investment Income, Net Investment in cumulative preferred stock of LTC properties Investment in Cumulative Preferred Stock Investment in cumulative preferred stock Original cost of cost method investments Original cost of cost method investments This item represents the original cost of investments accounted for under the cost method. Nonvoting Convertible Preferred Stock Nonvoting Convertible Preferred Stock Nonvoting convertible preferred stock Closing Price Of LTC's Common Stock Closing Price Of LTC's Common Stock This item represents the closing price of LTC's common stock at the end of the reporting period. Preferred Stock, Dividend Rate, Percentage Preferred Stock, Dividend Rate, Percentage Preferred Stock, Liquidation Preference Per Share Preferred Stock, Liquidation Preference Per Share Policy Text Block [Abstract] Consolidation, Policy Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates, Policy Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Earnings Per Share, Policy Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block] Reclassification, Policy [Policy Text Block] Reclassification, Policy [Policy Text Block] New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Available-for-sale Securities Available-for-sale Securities Cash Flow Hedge Derivative Instrument Assets at Fair Value Cash Flow Hedge Derivative Instrument Assets at Fair Value Cash Flow Hedge Derivative Instrument Liabilities at Fair Value Cash Flow Hedge Derivative Instrument Liabilities at Fair Value Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability Schedule Of Marketable Securities Marketable Securities [Table Text Block] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Transfers Into Level 3 Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Transfers Into Level 3 Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Fair Value, Measurements with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements) Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements) Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared Facility Type [Axis] Facility Type [Axis] This element represents the categories or type of health care properties that are currently in a portfolio. Facility Type [Domain] Facility Type [Domain] Description of the specific type of health care properties, which distinguishes it from an organization's total portfolio of properties. Senior Housing Community [Member] Senior Housing Community [Member] This is a facility type that may include Assisted Living, Independent Living or a combination known as a Senior Living Campus. Independent Living Facility [Member] Independent Living Facility [Member] This element represents a property or properties that are classified as an Independent Living Facility, which differentiate them from other health care properties. Skilled Nursing Facility [Member] Skilled Nursing Facility [Member] This element represents a property or properties that are classified as a Skilled Nursing Facility, which differentiate them from other health care properties. Assisted Living Facility [Member] Assisted Living Facility [Member] This element represents a property/properties that is/are classified as an Assisted Living Facility, which differentiate them from other health care properties. Hospital [Member] Hospital [Member] This element represents a property or properties that are classified as a Hospital, which differentiate them from other health care properties. Medical Office Building [Member] Medical Office Building [Member] This element represents a property or properties that are classified as a Medical Office Building, which differentiate them from other health care properties. Holiday Acquisition Holdings [Member] Holiday Acquisition Holdings [Member] Holiday Acquisition Holdings [Member] Bickford Senior Living [Member] Bickford Senior Living [Member] Bickford Senior Living [Member] Bickford Development Properties [Member] Bickford Development Properties [Member] Bickford Development Properties [Member] Stabilized Portfolio [Member] Stabilized Portfolio [Member] Stabilized Portfolio [Member] Unstabilized Portfolio [Member] Unstabilized Portfolio [Member] Unstabilized Portfolio [Member] Subleased Facilities [Member] Subleased Facilities [Member] Subleased Facilities [Member] NHC - 1991 Lease [Member] NHC - 1991 Lease [Member] NHC - 1991 Lease [Member] NHC - 2013 Lease [Member] NHC - 2013 Lease [Member] NHC - 2013 Lease [Member] Significant Acquisitions and Disposals by Transaction [Axis] Significant Acquisitions and Disposals by Transaction [Axis] Significant Acquisitions and Disposals, Transaction [Domain] Significant Acquisitions and Disposals, Transaction [Domain] Prestige Senior Living [Member] Prestige Senior Living [Member] Prestige Senior Living [Member] Care Investment Trust [Member] Care Investment Trust [Member] Care Investment Trust [Member] Chancellor Senior Living [Member] Chancellor Senior Living [Member] Chancellor Senior Living [Member] Capital Improvement Commitment [Member] Capital Improvement Commitment [Member] Capital Improvement Commitment [Member] Development Commitment [Member] Development Commitment [Member] Development Commitment [Member] Lessor Leasing Arrangements, Operating Leases, Term of Contract Lessor Leasing Arrangements, Operating Leases, Term of Contract Number of Master Leases Number of Master Leases Number of Master Leases Number of States in which Entity Operates Number of States in which Entity Operates Nonportfolio Assets, Original Cost Nonportfolio Assets, Original Cost This item represents the original cost of corporate assets that are not part of the investment portfolio. Real Estate Investment Property, Portfolio Assets Real Estate Investment Property, Portfolio Assets The element represents the original cost of all portfolio leased assets. Number of Lessees Number of Lessees The number of lessees of real estate property at the end of the period. Initial Lease Amount Initial Lease Amount The inital lease amount charged under a lease entered into in connection with the purchase of property. Lease Escalator Rate, From Lease Year 1 to Lease Year 3 Lease Escalator Rate, From Lease Year 1 to Lease Year 3 The initial escalator rate charged from lease year 1 and through lease year 3 under a lease entered into in connection with the purchase of a property. Number of Years Until Lease Escalator Changes Number of Years Until Lease Escalator Changes Number of Years Until Lease Escalator Changes Lease Escalator Rate, After Lease Year 3 Lease Escalator Rate, After Lease Year 3 The initial escalator rate charged from lease year 3 through the end of the lease term under a lease entered into in connection with the purchase of a property. Joint Venture Contributed Properties Ownership Interest Retained Joint Venture Contributed Properties Ownership Interest Retained This item represents the percentage of ownership interest which is retained subsequent to contribution into a joint venture. Joint Venture Contributed Properties Ownership Interest Surrendered Joint Venture Contributed Properties Ownership Interest Surrendered This item represents the percentage of ownership interest which is surrendered subsequent to contribution into a joint venture. Number Of Development Projects Active Number Of Development Projects Active This item represents the number of active development or construction projects. Number of Units in Real Estate Property Number of Units in Real Estate Property Operating Leases, Income Statement, Lease Revenue Operating Leases, Income Statement, Lease Revenue Percentage of Continuing Revenue Percentage of Continuing Revenue This element represents the percentage of income recognized from a lease tenant. Straight Line Rent Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Earnings or Loss of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Earnings or Loss of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Number of additional lease renewal options Number Of Additional Lease Renewal Options Number Of Additional Lease Renewal Options Lease Renewal Period In Years Lessor Leasing Arrangements, Operating Leases, Renewal Term Percentage Rent Rate Percentage Rent Rate This element represents the rental revenue rate earned during the period from lessee-operators based on revenues generated in their operations, generally in excess of a base amount. Generally stipulated in the lease agreement, it usually will provide for a fixed percentage of revenue to be paid as additional (or possibly only) rent due the lessor, and may be based on gross revenues, net revenues, or multiple variations thereof. Percentage rent Minimum Annual Lease Income Minimum Annual Lease Income This element represents the minimum annual lease income to be received. Significant Acquisition, Cost, Cash Significant Acquisition, Cost, Cash This item represents the cash proceeds transferred as partial consideration in a significant acquisition. Asset Purchase, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Earn Out Payments Asset Purchase, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Earn Out Payments This item represents the maximum amount of contingent payments the seller of an asset could potentially earn. Purchase Option Amount Purchase Option Amount This item represents the amount of an outstanding purchase option. Initial lease rate Initial lease rate The initial rate charged under a lease entered into in connection with the purchase of a property. Capital Improvements Commitment Capital Improvements Commitment Capital Improvements Commitment Maximum Commitment For All Active Development Projects Maximum Commitment For All Active Development Projects This item represents the maximum commitment for all active development projects. Real estate purchase liabilities Real estate purchase liabilities Real estate purchase liabilities Construction and Development Costs Construction and Development Costs Income from continuing operations attributable to common stockholders Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Attributable to Parent Net income attributable to common stockholders Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent BASIC: Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic [Abstract] Income from continuing operations per common share, basic Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share Net income per common share attributable to common stockholders Earnings Per Share, Basic DILUTED: Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract] Weighted average common shares outstanding, diluted Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment Stock options, diluted Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements Average dilutive common shares outstanding Income from continuing operations per common share Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share Net income per common share attributable to common stockholders Earnings Per Share, Diluted Incremental shares excluded since anti-dilutive: Incremental Weighted Average Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect [Abstract] Stock options with an exercise price in excess of the market price for our common shares Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Document And Entity Information [Abstract] Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Document Type Document Type Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Investment In Preferred Stock, At Cost Cost-method Investments, Description [Text Block] Financing Receivable, Net [Abstract] Major Customer [Axis] Major Customer [Axis] Major Customer [Axis] Secured By Real Estate [Member] Secured By Real Estate [Member] Secured By Real Estate [Member] Not Secured By Real Estate [Member] Not Secured By Real Estate [Member] Not Secured By Real Estate [Member] Mortgage and other notes receivable, net Loans and Leases Receivable, Net Amount Number of health care properties related to mortgage notes receivables Number Of Health Care Properties Related To Mortgage Notes Receivables Number Of Health Care Properties Related To Mortgage Notes Receivables Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable Loan and realty (recoveries) losses, net Allowance for Loan and Lease Loss, Recovery of Bad Debts Loans and Lease Receivable, Maximum Revolving Amount Loans and Lease Receivable, Maximum Revolving Amount Loans and Lease Receivable, Maximum Revolving Amount Note Receivable Interest Rate Note Receivable Interest Rate This concept reflects the interest rate to be received on a loan receivable. Schedule of Debt (Parentheticals) [Abstract] Schedule of Debt (Parentheticals) [Abstract] Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount Debt Instrument, Unamortized Premium Debt Instrument, Unamortized Premium Equity Method Investments And Other Assets [Abstract] Equity Method Investments And Other Assets [Abstract] Equity-method investment in OpCo Equity Method Investments Debt issuance costs Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current Accounts receivable and others assets Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Replacement reserve and tax escrows - Fannie Mae Escrow Deposit Lease escrow deposits Security Deposit Escrow deposit for tax deferred exchange Deposit Assets Equity-method investment and other assets Deferred Costs and Other Assets Deferred Compensation Arrangements [Abstract] Schedule of Stock Option Activity Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block] Fair Value Of Financial Instruments [Abstract] Fair Value Of Financial Instruments [Abstract] Schedule of Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Fair Value Measurements, Nonrecurring [Table Text Block] Fair Value Measurements, Nonrecurring [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Domain] Equity Award [Domain] 2012 Plan [Member] Two Thousand Twelve Stock Option Plan [Member] Two Thousand Twelve Stock Option Plan [Member] 2005 Plan [Member] Two Thousand Five Stock Option Plan [Member] Two Thousand Five Stock Option Plan [Member] Expected To Be Recognized During 2014 [Member] Expected to be recognized during 2014 [Member] Expected to be recognized during 2014 [Member] Expected To Be Recognized During 2015 [Member] Expected To Be Recognized During 2015 [Member] Expected To Be Recognized During 2015 [Member] Expected To Be Recognized During 2016 [Member] Expected To Be Recognized During 2016 [Member] Expected To Be Recognized During 2016 [Member] Shares available for grants Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant Stock Option Plan, Award Vesting Period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Common stock on date granted term period, years Incentive Stock Option Granted Term Period Incentive Stock Option Granted Term Period Stock or Unit Option Plan Expense Stock or Unit Option Plan Expense Combined share-based compensation expense for 2005 Plan and 1997 Plan Unrecognized compensation cost Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Equity-Method Investment And Other Assets Disclosure [Table Text Block] Deferred Costs, Capitalized, Prepaid, and Other Assets Disclosure [Table Text Block] 2005 Plan [Member] Two Thousand Five Plan [Member] 2005 Share Based Compensation Plan Options outstanding, January 1 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Options granted Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross Options exercised Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Options outstanding, March 31 Options exercisable, December 31 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number Debt Instruments [Abstract] Debt Disclosure Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Assets Assets [Abstract] Land Land Buildings and improvements Investment Building and Building Improvements Construction in progress Construction in Progress, Gross Real estate properties, gross Real Estate Investment Property, at Cost Less accumulated depreciation Real Estate Investment Property, Accumulated Depreciation Real estate properties, net Real Estate Investment Property, Net Investment in preferred stock, at cost Cost Method Investments Cash and cash equivalents Marketable securities Marketable Securities Straight-line rent receivable Deferred Rent Receivables, Net Equity-method investment and other assets Total Assets Assets Liabilities and Equity Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Debt Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount Accounts payable and accrued expenses Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Dividends Payable Dividends Payable Lease deposit liabilities Security Deposit Liability Deferred income Deferred Revenue Total Liabilities Liabilities Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies National Health Investors Stockholders' Equity: Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Common stock, $.01 par value; 60,000,000 and 40,000,000 shares authorized; 33,054,599 and 33,051,176 shares issued and outstanding, respectively Common Stock, Value, Issued Capital in excess of par value Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock Cumulative dividends in excess of net income Accumulated Distributions in Excess of Net Income Accumulated other comprehensive income Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Total National Health Investors Stockholders' Equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Noncontrolling interest Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total Equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total Liabilities and Equity Liabilities and Equity Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Other comprehensive income (loss): Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Change in unrealized gains on securities Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, Net of Tax Increase (decrease) in fair value of cash flow hedge Less: reclassification adjustment for amounts recognized in net income Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, Net of Tax Total other comprehensive income (loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Comprehensive income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income attributable to common stockholders Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event [Member] Allocations [Axis] Allocations [Axis] Allocations [Axis] Allocations, Debt Issuance Costs [Domain] Allocations, Debt Issuance Costs [Domain] [Domain] for Allocations [Axis] Allocated to Debt [Member] Allocated to Debt [Member] Allocated to Debt [Member] Allocated to Equity [Member] Allocated to Equity [Member] Allocated to Equity [Member] Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Derivative, Name [Domain] Derivative, Name [Domain] Interest Rate Swap, Date Entered, March 2014 [Member] Interest Rate Swap, Date Entered, March 2014 [Member] Interest Rate Swap, Date Entered, March 2014 [Member] Interest Rate Swap, Date Entered, May 2012 [Member] Interest Rate Swap, Date Entered, May 2012 [Member] Interest Rate Swap, Date Entered, May 2012 [Member] Interest Rate Swap, Date Entered, June 2013 [Member] Interest Rate Swap, Date Entered, June 2013 [Member] Interest Rate Swap, Date Entered, June 2013 [Member] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name, Convertible Senior Notes [Member] Debt Instrument, Name, Convertible Senior Notes [Member] Debt Instrument, Name, Convertible Senior Notes [Member] Debt Instrument, Name, Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Debt Instrument, Name, Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Refers to specific disclosures related to the revolving portion of the credit facility. Debt Instrument Name, Old Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Debt Instrument Name, Old Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Debt Instrument Name, Old Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Debt Instrument Name, $130m Term Loan - June 2020 Maturity [Member] Debt Instrument Name, $130m Term Loan - June 2020 Maturity [Member] Debt Instrument Name, $130m Term Loan - June 2020 Maturity [Member] Debt Instrument Name, $120m Term Loans - June 2020 Maturity [Member] Debt Instrument Name, $120m Term Loans - June 2020 Maturity [Member] Debt Instrument Name, $120m Term Loans - June 2020 Maturity [Member] Debt Instrument, Name, Fannie Mae (A) [Member] Debt Instrument, Name, Fannie Mae (A) [Member] Debt Instrument, Name, Fannie Mae (A) [Member] Debt Instrument, Name, Fannie Mae (B) [Member] Debt Instrument, Name, Fannie Mae (B) [Member] Debt Instrument, Name, Fannie Mae (B) [Member] Debt Instrument, Name, HUD Mortgages [Member] Debt Instrument, Name, HUD Mortgages [Member] Debt Instrument, Name, HUD Mortgages [Member] Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Face Amount of Mortgages Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Face Amount of Mortgages Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Long-term Debt Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Number of Additional Properties, HUD Mortgage Security Number of Additional Properties, HUD Mortgage Security Number of Additional Properties, HUD Mortgage Security Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Ratio Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Ratio Convertible Debt Instrument, Conversion Ratio, Principal Amount, Basis Convertible Debt Instrument, Conversion Ratio, Principal Amount, Basis Convertible Debt Instrument, Conversion Ratio, Principal Amount, Basis Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Price Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Price Debt Instrument, Convertible, Number of Equity Instruments Debt Instrument, Convertible, Number of Equity Instruments Convertible Debt Convertible Debt Debt Instrument, Convertible, Carrying Amount of Equity Component Debt Instrument, Convertible, Carrying Amount of Equity Component Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage Debt Issuance Cost Debt Issuance Cost Term Loans, Outstanding Balance Term Loans, Outstanding Balance This concept represents the outstanding balance of term loans. Debt Maturity, Extension Option, Number Of Years Debt Maturity, Extension Option, Number Of Years This element represents the number of years a debt maturity may be optionally extended beyond the current maturity. Credit Facility, Current Revolving Borrowing Capacity Credit Facility, Current Revolving Borrowing Capacity Amount of current revolving borrowing capacity under the credit facility considering any current restrictions on the amount that could be borrowed (for example, borrowings may be limited by the amount of current assets), but without considering any amounts currently outstanding under the facility. Number of basis points over LIBOR Number of Basis Points Over LIBOR This item represents the credit spread over the London Inter-Bank Offer Rate charged to the entity. Credit Facility Expansion Amount Credit Facility Expansion Amount The item represents the amount by which the maximum borrowing capacity of a credit facility could be expanded if an attached accordion feature were exercised. Unused balance of the unsecured revolving credit facility Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity Debt Instrument, Unused Borrowing Capacity, Fee, Basis Points Debt Instrument, Unused Borrowing Capacity, Fee, Basis Points Debt Instrument, Unused Borrowing Capacity, Fee, Basis Points Derivative, Fixed Interest Rate Derivative, Fixed Interest Rate Derivative, Notional Amount Derivative, Notional Amount Anticipated Total HUD Proceeds, Current Year Anticipated Total HUD Proceeds, Current Year Anticipated Total HUD Proceeds, Current Year Schedule of Debt [Abstract] Schedule of Debt [Abstract] Revolving credit facility - unsecured Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding Bank term loans - unsecured Unsecured Debt Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount Income Statement [Abstract] Revenues: Revenues [Abstract] Rental income Interest income from mortgage and other notes Interest Income, Operating Revenues Revenues Expenses: Operating Expenses [Abstract] Depreciation Depreciation, Continuing Operations This concept represents the total of all depreciation on tangible assets included in continuing operations. Interest, including amortization of debt discount and issuance costs Interest Expense Legal Legal Fees Franchise, excise and other taxes Franchise, excise and other taxes Franchise, excise and other taxes General and administrative General and Administrative Expense Total operating expenses Operating Expenses Income before equity-method investee, discontinued operations and noncontrolling interest Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Income from equity-method investee Income from continuing operations Operating Income (Loss) Income from discontinued operations Net income Less: net income attributable to noncontrolling interest Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Weighted average common shares outstanding: Earnings Per Share, Basic, Other Disclosures [Abstract] Basic Diluted Earnings per common share: Basic: Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Income from continuing operations attributable to common stockholders Discontinued operations Net income per common share attributable to common stockholders Diluted: Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] Income from continuing operations attributable to common stockholders Discontinued operations Net income per common share attributable to common stockholders Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Commitments And Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Lease Escrow Deposits [Axis] Lease Escrow Deposits [Axis] Lease Escrow Deposits [Axis] Lease Escrow Deposits, Purpose [Domain] Lease Escrow Deposits, Purpose [Domain] [Domain] for Lease Escrow Deposits [Axis] Lease Security [Member] Lease Security [Member] Lease Security [Member] Capital Improvements Reserve [Member] Capital Improvements Reserve [Member] Capital Improvements Reserve [Member] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Investment [Line Items] Investment [Line Items] Equity Method Investment, Difference Between Carrying Amount and Underlying Equity Equity Method Investment, Difference Between Carrying Amount and Underlying Equity Net Assets Received In Acquisition of Equity-Method Investee Variable Interest Entity, Financial or Other Support, Amount Variable Interest Entity, Financial or Other Support, Amount Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Dividends or Distributions Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Dividends or Distributions Payments for Delayed Tax Exempt Exchange Payments for Delayed Tax Exempt Exchange Equity Method Investments And Other Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures Disclosure [Text Block] Carrying Value and Fair Value, Financial Instruments Not Carried At Fair Value [Abstract] Carrying Value and Fair Value, Financial Instruments Not Carried At Fair Value [Abstract] Liability Class [Axis] Liability Class [Axis] Fair Value by Liability Class [Domain] Fair Value by Liability Class [Domain] Variable Interest Rate Debt [Member] Variable Interest Rate Debt [Member] Variable Interest Rate Debt [Member] Fixed Interest Rate Debt [Member] Fixed Interest Rate Debt [Member] Fixed Interest Rate Debt [Member] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Carrying Amount, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] Reported Value Measurement [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure Loans and Leases Receivable, Net Amount Schedule of Interest Expense [Abstract] Schedule of Interest Expense [Abstract] Interest expense Interest Expense, Debt, Excluding Amortization Amortization of Financing Costs Amortization of Financing Costs Total interest expense Significant Business Combination Proforma [Abstract] Significant Business Combination Proforma [Abstract] Revenue Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue Net income Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss) Net income available to common stockholders Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net income Available To Common Stockholders Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net income Available To Common Stockholders Basic earnings per share Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted earnings per share Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Diluted Mortgage Notes Receivable Loans, Notes, Trade and Other Receivables Disclosure [Text Block] Accounting Policies [Abstract] Significant Accounting Policies Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies [Table] Commitments and Contingencies [Table] This table relates to commitments and contingencies. The line items identify information about each value. Bickford Commitment [Member] Bickford Commitment [Member] This member represents a construction commitment with Bickford Senior Living, LLC. Kentucky River Commitment [Member] Kentucky River Commitment [Member] This member represents a commitment for renovations on the Kentucky River facility. 1st Contingent Payment Amount [Member] 1st Contingent Payment Amount [Member] 1st Contingent Payment Amount [Member] Sante Partners Commitment [Member] Sante Partners Commitment [Member] Sante Partners Commitment [Member] Chancellor Healthcare [Member] Chancellor Healthcare [Member] Chancellor Healthcare [Member] Kentucky River [Member] Kentucky River [Member] This item represents the Kentucky River facility, which differentiates it from other real estate facilities within a portfolio. Discovery Regency Pointe [Member] Discovery Regency Pointe [Member] Discovery Regency Pointe [Member] Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Description, Loan Category [Axis] Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Description, Loan Category [Axis] Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Loan Category [Domain] Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Loan Category [Domain] Construction Loans [Member] Construction Loans [Member] Acquisition Helix Healthcare [Member] Acquisition Helix Healthcare [Member] This member represents the current period acquisitions contemplated or completed with Helix Healthcare. Number of Real Estate Properties To Be Constructed Number of Real Estate Properties To Be Constructed This element represents the number of real estate properties to be constructed, based on an agreement or commitment. Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Significant development and lease transactions Significant development and lease transactions The value of consideration committed by the Entity for the development and subsequent lease of a healthcare facility. Construction Commitment Period in Years Construction Commitment Period in Years This element represents the number of commited years for a construction project or projects. Lease Extension Period in Years Lease Extension Period in Years This element represents the number of years involved in a lease extension period. Lessor Leasing Arrangements, Operating Leases, Renewal Term Significant acquisitions and disposals, acquisition costs or sale proceeds Supplemental Construction Loan Commitment Draw Supplemental Construction Loan Commitment Draw Supplemental Construction Loan Commitment Draw Construction of transitional rehabilitation center, number of beds Capital Improvements Commitment Funded Capital Improvements Commitment Funded Capital Improvements Commitment Funded Capital improvements commitment Lease Incentive Commitment Assessed As Not Probable Lease Incentive Commitment Assessed As Not Probable This item represents the amount of a payment or a series of payments related to a lease incentive commitment which has been assessed as not probable and therefore is not recorded as payable. Conditional future payments related to purchase/leaseback transaction Long-term Purchase Commitment, Amount Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Common Stock [Member] Common Stock [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Cumulative Dividends In Excess Of Net Income [Member] Retained Earnings, Appropriated [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] Parent [Member] Parent [Member] Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Balance, shares Balance, value Comprehensive income Distributions to noncontrolling interest Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders Shares issued on stock options exercised, shares Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised Share-based compensation Share-based Compensation Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Equity Component of Convertible Debt Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Equity Component of Convertible Debt Dividends declared, $1.54 per share Dividends, Common Stock, Cash Balance, shares Balance, value Investments In Marketable Securities [Text Block] Investments in Debt and Marketable Equity Securities (and Certain Trading Assets) Disclosure [Text Block] Rental income Other income Depreciation Depreciation and Amortization, Discontinued Operations Weighted average common shares outstanding: Discontinued operations income per share: Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Abstract] Basic Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative [Table] Derivative [Table] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative, Inception Date Derivative, Inception Date Derivative, Maturity Date Derivative, Maturity Date Derivative, Description of Variable Rate Basis Derivative, Description of Variable Rate Basis Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Liability at Fair Value Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Liability at Fair Value Schedule of Debt Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Interest Expense Schedule of Interest Expense [Table Text Block] Schedule of Interest Expense [Table Text Block] Schedule of Interest Rate Derivatives Schedule of Interest Rate Derivatives [Table Text Block] Share-Based Compensation Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]