Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Unsecured line of credit Unsecured Line of Credit [Member] Unsecured Line of Credit [Member] Unsecured revolving credit facilities Line of Credit [Member] 6.25% Senior Notes due 2013 Six Point Two Five Percent Senior Notes, Due 2013 [Member] Represents the 6.25 percent senior notes due 2013. 3.125% Senior Notes due 2015 Three Point One Two Five Percent Senior Notes, Due 2015 [Member] Represents the 3.125 percent senior notes due 2015. 6% Senior Notes due 2015 Six Percent Senior Notes, Due 2015 [Member] Represents this 6 percent senior notes due 2015. 1.55% Senior Notes due 2016 One Point Five Five Percent Senior Notes, Due 2016 [Member] Represents the One Point Five Five Percent Senior Notes, Due 2016 [Member] 1.250% Senior Notes due 2017 One Point Two Five Zero Percent Senior Notes, Due 2017 [Member] One Point Two Five Zero Percent Senior Notes, Due 2017 [Member] 2.00% Senior Notes due 2018 Two Percent Senior Notes, Due 2018 [Member] Two Percent Senior Notes, Due 2018 [Member] Unsecured Term Loan Due 2018 Unsecured Term Loan Due 2018 Number Two [Member] Represent the Unsecured Term Loan Due 2018 Number Two Unsecured Term Loan Due 2019 Unsecured Term Loan Due 2019 [Member] Represents the Unsecured Term Loan Due 2019 4.00% senior notes due 2019 Four Percent, Senior Notes, Due 2019 [Member] Represents the details pertaining to 4.00% Senior Notes due 2019. 2.700% Senior Notes due 2020 Two Point Seven Percent Senior Notes, Due 2020 [Member] Two Point Seven Percent Senior Notes, Due 2020 [Member] 4.750% Senior Notes due 2021 Four Point Seven Five Zero Percent Senior Notes Due 2021 [Member] Represents the 4.750 percent senior notes due 2021. 4.25% senior notes due 2022 Four Point Two Five Percent Senior Notes Due 2022 [Member] Represents the 4.25 percent senior notes due 2022. 3.25% senior notes due 2022 Three Point Two Five Percent Senior Notes due 2022 [Member] Three Point Two Five Percent Senior Notes due 2022 [Member] 3.750% Senior Notes due 2024 Three Point Seven Five Zero Percent Senior Notes, Due 2024 [Member] Three Point Seven Five Zero Percent Senior Notes, Due 2024 [Member] 6.90% Senior Notes due 2037 Six Point Nine Zero Percent Senior Notes, Due 2037 [Member] Represents the 6.90 percent senior notes due 2037. 6.59% Senior Notes due 2038 Six Point Five Nine Percent Senior Notes, Due 2038 [Member] Represents the 6.59 percent senior notes due 2038. 5.45% Senior Notes due 2043 Five Point Four Five Percent Senior Notes, Due 2043 [Member] Five Point Four Five Percent Senior Notes, Due 2043 [Member] 5.70% Senior Notes due 2043 Five Point Seven Zero Percent Senior Notes, Due 2043 [Member] Represents the Five Point Seven Zero Percent Senior Notes, Due 2043 [Member] Mortgage loans and other Mortgage Loans and Other [Member] Represents mortgage loans and other debt. Unsecured term loan Unsecured Term Loan [Member] Represents the unsecured term loan. Mortgage Loans Held-for-Sale Mortgage Loans Held for Sale [Member] Represents the Mortgage Loans Related to Properties Classified as Held For Sale Currency [Axis] Currency [Axis] All Currencies [Domain] All Currencies [Domain] Canada, Dollars Canada, Dollars Debt instruments Debt Instrument [Line Items] Total Maturities Long-term Debt, Gross Unamortized fair value adjustment Debt Instrument, Unamortized Fair Value Adjustment Represents the unamortized fair value adjustment of the debt instrument. Unamortized discounts Unamortized Discounts Represents unamortized discounts associated with the debt instrument. Senior notes payable and other debt Long-term Debt Interest rate (as a percent) Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Amount outstanding Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding Document and Entity Information [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- 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 Document Type Document Type Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Debt instrument, face amount Debt Instrument, Face Amount Public offering price as a percent of par Public Offering Price as Percent of Par Public offering price as a percent of par. Proceeds from issuance of senior long-term debt Proceeds from Issuance of Senior Long-term Debt Accounting Policies [Abstract] Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest, by Legal Entity [Table] Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest, by Legal Entity [Table] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] NHPPMBLP [Member] NHPPMBLP [Member] Represents the entity NHP/PMB L.P. Partner Type [Axis] Partner Type [Axis] Partner Type of Partners' Capital Account, Name [Domain] Partner Type of Partners' Capital Account, Name [Domain] Class A Units Limited Partner [Member] Class B Units General Partner [Member] Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items] Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items] Limited partnership units held by third party investors (in shares) Limited Partners' Capital Account, Units Outstanding Percentage of ownership interest on total units outstanding Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Managing Member or General Partner, Ownership Interest Limited partnership units outstanding (in shares) General Partners' Capital Account, Units Outstanding Unit Conversion Factor for Common Stock Unit Conversion Factor For Common Stock Unit conversion factor for common stock assigned at the time of the merger. Fair value of operating partnership units exceeding cost Temporary Equity, Carrying Amount, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Subsequent Events [Abstract] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Subsequent Event [Member] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Holiday Retirement Holiday Retirement [Member] Holiday Retirement [Member] HCT American Realty Capital Healthcare Trust, Inc. [Member] American Realty Capital Healthcare Trust, Inc. [Member] Real Estate, Type of Property [Axis] Real Estate, Type of Property [Axis] Real Estate [Domain] Real Estate [Domain] Seniors Housing Communities Seniors Housing Communities [Member] Represents the information pertaining to seniors housing communities. Unsecured Term Loan Unsecured Debt [Member] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Unsecured Term Loan Due 2015 Unsecured Term Loan Due 2015 [Member] Unsecured term loan due 2015. Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum Minimum [Member] Maximum Maximum [Member] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Expected business combination, expected number of real estate properties to be acquired Business Combination, Expected Number Of Real Estate Properties Acquired Business Combination, Expected Number Of Real Estate Properties Acquired Expected business combination, consideration to be transferred Business Combination, Expected Consideration Transferred Business Combination, Expected Consideration Transferred Expected business combination, consideration to be transferred, price per acquiree share Business Combination, Expected Consideration Transferred, Price Per Acquiree Share Business Combination, Expected Consideration Transferred, Price Per Acquiree Share Expected issuance of Stock, price per share Expected Sale of Stock, Price Per Share Expected Sale of Stock, Price Per Share Expected issuance of stock, consideration to be received on transaction Expected Sale of Stock, Consideration Received On Transaction Expected Sale of Stock, Consideration Received On Transaction Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract] Schedule of Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Table] Schedule of Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Table] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Name [Domain] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Name [Domain] 2014 Dispositions Dispositions 2014 [Member] Dispositions 2014 [Member] 2013 Dispositions Dispositions 2013 [Member] Details pertaining to 2013 dispositions. Discontinued Operations [Member] Discontinued Operations [Member] Segments [Axis] Segments [Domain] Triple-Net Leased Properties Triple Net Leased Properties [Member] Represents the Triple-Net Leased Properties, a segment of the entity. Senior Living Operations Senior Living Operations [Member] Represents the Senior Living Operations, a segment of the entity. MOB Operations Medical Office Building Operations [Member] Represents the MOB Operations, a segment of the entity. Medical Office Buildings Medical Office Buildings [Member] Represents the information pertaining to medical office buildings. Significant Acquisitions and Disposals Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items] Number of real estate properties sold Number of Real Estate Properties Sold The number of properties sold by the entity. Proceeds from disposition of assets, including termination fees Proceeds from Disposition of Assets Including Termination Fees Represents the proceeds from sale of real estate properties including termination fees. Gain (loss) on disposition of assets Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property Plant Equipment, Excluding Oil and Gas Property and Timber Property Lease Termination Fees Lease Termination Fees Represents details pertaining to lease termination fees. Properties classified as held for sale Number of Properties Classified as Held-for-sale Represents the number of the properties which are classified as held for sale. Assets held for sale Assets Held-for-sale, at Carrying Value Liabilities of assets held-for-sale Liabilities of Assets Held-for-sale Aggregate NOI Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Operating Income (Loss) Impairment of real estate Impairment of Real Estate Impairment of long-lived assets to be disposed of Impairment of Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed of Revenues: Revenues [Abstract] Rental income Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Rental Income Resident fees and services Disposal Group Including Discontinued Operation Other Real Estate Revenue Represents the amount of resident fees and services attributable to the disposal group, including a component of the entity (discontinued operation), during the reporting period. Interest and other income Disposal Group Including Discontinued Operation Interest and Other Income Amount of interest and other income attributable to the disposal group, including a component of the entity (discontinued operation), during the reporting period. Total Revenues Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Revenue Expenses: Operating Expenses [Abstract] Interest Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Interest Expense Depreciation and amortization Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Depreciation and Amortization Property-level operating expenses Disposal Group Including Discontinued Operation Direct Costs of Leased and Rented Property or Equipment Amount of property level operating expenses attributable to the disposal group, including a component of the entity (discontinued operation), during the reporting period. General, administrative and professional expenses Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, General and Administrative Expense Gain on extinguishment of debt, net Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Extinguishment of Debt, Gain (Loss), Net Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Extinguishment of Debt, Gain (Loss), Net Other Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Expenses Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Expenses Total expenses Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Operating Expense (Loss) income before (loss) gain on real estate dispositions Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, before Income Tax (Loss) gain on real estate dispositions, net Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal of Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax Discontinued operations Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest ACQUISITIONS AND DISPOSITIONS Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Carrying amounts and fair values of financial instruments Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Schedule of Real Estate Properties [Table] Property Subject to Operating Lease by Lessor [Axis] Property Subject to Operating Lease by Lessor [Axis] Amount of property owned but leased, by lessor. Property Subject to Operating Lease by Lessor [Domain] Property Subject to Operating Lease by Lessor [Domain] Name of lessor of assets leased under operating lease agreements as of the balance sheet. Brookdale Senior Living Brookdale Senior Living [Member] Represents the information pertaining to Brookdale Senior Living Inc. Kindred Kindred [Member] Represents the information pertaining to Kindred Healthcare, Inc. Real Estate Property Ownership [Axis] Real Estate Property Ownership [Axis] Real Estate Properties [Domain] Real Estate Properties [Domain] Development Projects Development Projects [Member] Represents the information pertaining to development projects. Seniors Housing Communities Senior Housing Communities [Member] Represents the information pertaining to seniors housing communities. Real estate properties Real Estate Properties [Line Items] Number of real estate properties Number of Real Estate Properties Number of properties leased Number of Properties Leased under Triple Net Leases The number of properties owned that are leased to unaffiliated tenants under triple-net lease terms. Number of independent third party managed properties Number of Independent Third Party Managed Properties The number of properties that are managed by the independent third party. Number of properties included in investments in unconsolidated entities Number of Properties Included in Investments in Unconsolidated Entities Number of Properties Included in Investments in Unconsolidated Entities Risks and Uncertainties [Abstract] Concentration Risk [Table] Concentration Risk [Table] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Total gross book value of properties Real Estate Properties Total Gross Book Value [Member] Total gross book value of real estate properties, when it serves as a benchmark in a concentration of risk calculation. Total revenues Revenues [Member] Total revenues, when it serves as a benchmark in a concentration of risk calculation. Total NOI Net Operating Income [Member] Total NOI (including amounts in discontinued operations), when it serves as a benchmark in a concentration of risk calculation. Skilled Nursing Facilities Skilled Nursing Facilities [Member] Represents the information pertaining to skilled nursing facilities. Hospitals, Medical Office Building, and Other Hospitals Medical Office Building and Other [Member] Represents the information pertaining to skilled nursing facilities, hospitals, MOBs and other healthcare assets. Major Customers [Axis] Customer [Axis] Name of Major Customer [Domain] Customer [Domain] ATRIA Atria [Member] Represents the information pertaining to Atria. SUNRISE Sunrise [Member] Represents the information pertaining to Sunrise. Atria and Sunrise Atria and Sunrise [Member] Atria and Sunrise [Member] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Domain] Counterparty Name [Domain] Emeritus Emeritus Corporation [Member] Emeritus Corporation [Member] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Domain] Investment, Name [Domain] Concentration Risk [Line Items] Concentration Risk [Line Items] Concentration Percentage Concentration Risk, Percentage Number of states Number of States in which Entity Operates Number of Canadian provinces Number of Provinces in which Entity Operates The number of provinces in which the entity operates as of the balance sheet date. Number of states accounting for more than 10% of total revenues Number of States Accounting for More than Ten Percent of Revenues The number of states accounting for more than ten percent of total revenues. Number of states accounting for more than 10% of net operating income Number of States Accounting for More than Ten Percent of Net Operating Income Number of States Accounting for More than Ten Percent of Net Operating Income Number of properties re-leased, transitioned to new operators or sold Number Of Properties Leased, Transitioned, Or Sold Number Of Properties Leased, Transitioned, Or Sold Number of properties whose leases are set to expire Number Of Properties With Leases Set To Expire Number Of Properties With Leases Set To Expire Number of properties previously leased and expected to be sold, rent obligation required Number Of Properties Leased And Expected To Be Sold, Rent Obligation Required Number Of Properties Leased And Expected To Be Sold, Rent Obligation Required Number of properties previously leased and expected to be sold Number Of Properties Leased And Expected To Be Sold Number Of Properties Leased And Expected To Be Sold Number of seniors housing communities under long-term management agreements Ownership interests accounted for under the equity method (as a percent) Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Earnings Per Share [Abstract] EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Domain] Litigation Case [Domain] Circuit Court for Baltimore City, Maryland Circuit Court, Baltimore City, Maryland [Member] Circuit Court, Baltimore City, Maryland [Member] Supreme Court of the State of New York, County of New York Supreme Court, State Of New York, County Of New York [Member] Supreme Court, State Of New York, County Of New York [Member] United States District Court of Maryland United States District Court, Maryland [Member] United States District Court, Maryland [Member] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Putative class actions were filed, number Loss Contingency, New Claims Filed, Number Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Measurement Basis [Axis] Measurement Basis [Axis] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Carrying Amount Reported Value Measurement [Member] Fair Value Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Assets: Assets [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure Secured loans receivable, net Mortgage Loans On Real Estate, Fair Value Mortgage Loans On Real Estate, Fair Value Unsecured loans receivable, net Unsecured Notes and Loans Receivable, Net, Fair Value Disclosure For an unclassified balance sheet, an unsecured amount representing an agreement for an unconditional promise by the maker to pay the Entity (holder) a definite sum of money at a future date, net of any write-downs taken for collection uncertainty on the part of the holder. Such amount may include accrued interest receivable in accordance with the terms of the note. The note also may contain provisions and related items including a discount or premium, payable on demand, secured, or unsecured, interest bearing or noninterest bearing, among a myriad of other features and characteristics. This amount does not include amounts related to receivables held-for-sale. Marketable securities Available-for-sale Securities Liabilities: Liabilities [Abstract] Senior notes payable and other debt, gross Long-term Debt, Fair Value Derivative instruments and other liabilities Derivative Financial Instruments and Other Liabilities Derivative instrument obligations meeting the definition of a liability which the entity is a party to and other liabilities not separately disclosed by the entity as of the balance sheet date. Redeemable OP unitholder interests Equity [Abstract] Treasury stock, shares, retired Treasury Stock, Shares, Retired Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Foreign currency translation Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Unrealized gain on intra-entity foreign currency loan Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Adjustment For Long-Term Intercompany Transactions, Net Of Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Adjustment For Long-Term Intercompany Transactions, Net Of Tax Unrealized gain (loss) on marketable debt securities Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax Other Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Other Represents details pertaining to other accumulated other comprehensive income. Total accumulated other comprehensive income Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Dividends to common stockholders, per share (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid Segment Reporting [Abstract] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Segment, Geographical [Domain] Geographical [Domain] United States UNITED STATES Canada CANADA UNITED KINGDOM UNITED KINGDOM Segment Reporting Information Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Revenues: Geographic Areas, Revenues from External Customers [Abstract] Total revenues Revenues Net real estate property: Geographic Areas, Long-Lived Assets [Abstract] Total net real estate property Real Estate Investment Property, Net Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Total Ventas Stockholders' Equity Parent [Member] Common Stock Par Value Common Stock [Member] Capital in Excess of Par Value Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] Retained Earnings (Deficit) Retained Earnings [Member] Treasury Stock Treasury Stock [Member] Noncontrolling Interest Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Increase (decrease) in stockholders' equity Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Beginning Balance Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other comprehensive loss Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Retirement of stock Treasury Stock, Retired, Cost Method, Amount Acquisition-related activity Additions to Components of Equity During Period Value Acquisitions Additional equity value during the period related to acquisitions. Net change in noncontrolling interest Noncontrolling Interest Period Increase (Decrease), including the impact to Equity Net increase or decrease in balance of noncontrolling interest in the subsidiary during the reporting period related to items not individually reported. Dividends to common stockholders Dividends, Common Stock, Cash Issuance of common stock Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues Issuance of common stock for stock plans Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Change in redeemable noncontrolling interest Change in Estimated Carrying Amount of Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests from Initial Carrying Amount Change in the estimated carrying amount of redeemable noncontrolling interests from their initial carrying amount. Adjust redeemable OP unitholder interests to current fair value Adjustments To Additional Paid In Capital Related To Redeemable Operating Partner Unitholder Interests To Record At Fair Value Adjustments to additional paid in capital related to the Redeemable Operating Partner unitholder interests in order to record at fair value. Purchase of OP units Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital Stock, Purchase of Limited Partnership Units This element represents Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital Stock, Purchase of Limited Partnership Units. Grant of restricted stock, net of forfeitures Stock Issued During Period, Value, Restricted Stock Award, Net of Forfeitures Ending Balance Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract] Management fees earned in connection with unconsolidated entities Management Fees Revenue Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Unconsolidated Properties Unconsolidated Properties [Member] Two Medical Office Buildings Acquired March 2013 Two Medical Office Buildings Acquired March 2013 [Member] Two Medical Office Buildings Acquired March 2013 [Member] Equity method investments Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Number of properties accounted for under equity method Number of real estate properties Number of Businesses Acquired Purchase of joint venture interests Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Gain on re-measurement of equity method investments Business Combination, Step Acquisition, Equity Interest in Acquiree, Remeasurement Gain Intangible Assets, Intangible Liabilities, And Goodwill Disclosure [Abstract] Intangible Assets, Intangible Liabilities, And Goodwill Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Intangibles Intangibles [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the aggregate amount of intangible assets and liabilities. Deferred Costs, Capitalized, Prepaid, and Other Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Summary of other assets Schedule of Other Assets [Table Text Block] INTANGIBLES Intangibles Disclosure [Text Block] Disclosure of information related to intangible assets and liabilities. OTHER ASSETS Other Assets Disclosure [Text Block] SEGMENT INFORMATION Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] FAIR VALUES OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Cash flows from operating activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Net income 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 and amortization (including amounts in discontinued operations) Other Depreciation and Amortization Amortization of deferred revenue and lease intangibles, net Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Revenue and Customer Advances and Deposits Other non-cash amortization Amortization of Other Deferred Charges Stock-based compensation Share-based Compensation Straight-lining of rental income, net Straight Line Rent Loss (gain) on extinguishment of debt, net Extinguishment of Debt, Gain (Loss), Net of Tax Gain on real estate dispositions (including amounts in discontinued operations) Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Real Estate Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Real Estate Gain on real estate loan investments Non Cash Adjustment Gain Loss on Loan Investments Non cash adjustment for the gain or loss recognized on loan investments. Gain on sale of marketable securities Marketable Securities, Gain (Loss) Income tax expense (benefit) Other Tax Expense (Benefit) (Income) loss from unconsolidated entities Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Gain on re-measurement of equity interest upon acquisition, net Gain Loss On Remeasurement Of Equity Method Investment Represents the gain or loss on remeasurement of equity method investment during the period as a result of acquiring the majority ownership interest of our investment previously accounted for as an equity method investment. Other Other Noncash Income (Expense) Changes in operating assets and liabilities: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Decrease (increase) in other assets Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets Increase in accrued interest Increase (Decrease) in Interest Payable, Net Decrease in accounts payable and other liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities 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] Net investment in real estate property Payments to Acquire Real Estate Purchase of noncontrolling interest Payments to Acquire Additional Interest in Subsidiaries Investment in loans receivable and other Payments to Acquire Loans Receivable Proceeds from real estate disposals Proceeds from Sale of Real Estate Held-for-investment Proceeds from loans receivable Proceeds from Sale and Collection of Loans Receivable Purchase of marketable securities Payments to Acquire Marketable Securities Proceeds from sale or maturity of marketable securities Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of Marketable Securities Funds held in escrow for future development expenditures Change in balance of Funds Held in Escrow for Future Development Change related to Funds Held in Escrow for Future Development Development project expenditures Payment for Development Project Expenditures Payment for development project expenditures. Capital expenditures Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Other Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities 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 credit facilities Proceeds from (Repayments of) Lines of Credit Proceeds from debt Proceeds from Issuance of Debt Repayment of debt Repayments of Other Debt Payment of deferred financing costs Payments of Financing Costs Issuance of common stock, net Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock Cash distribution to common stockholders Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock Cash distribution to redeemable OP unitholders Payments of Capital Distribution Purchases of redeemable OP units Payments to Acquire Limited Partnership Interests Contributions from noncontrolling interest Proceeds from Noncontrolling Interests Distributions to noncontrolling interest Payments to Noncontrolling Interests Other Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Net cash used in financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Effect of foreign currency translation on cash and cash equivalents Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and cash equivalents at end of period Supplemental schedule of non-cash activities: Cash Flow, Noncash Investing and Financing Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Assets and liabilities assumed from acquisitions: Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Net Nonmonetary Assets Acquired (Liabilities Assumed) [Abstract] Real estate investments Transfer from Investments Other assets acquired Fair Value of Assets Acquired Debt assumed Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Debt Assumed Other liabilities Liabilities Assumed Deferred income tax liability Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Deferred Income Tax Liabilities Assumed The amount of deferred income tax liabilities that an Entity assumes in acquiring a business or in consideration for an asset received in a noncash (or part noncash) acquisition. Noncash is defined as transactions during a period that affect recognized assets or liabilities but that do not result in cash receipts or cash payments in the period. "Part noncash" refers to that portion of the transaction not resulting in cash receipts or cash payments in the period. Noncontrolling interests Noncontrolling Interest Assets and Liabilities Assumed from Acquisitions Noncontrolling interest assets and liabilities assumed from acquisitions. Schedule of Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Ventas, Inc. Parent Company [Member] Ventas Realty Ventas Realty Limited Partnership [Member] Pertaining to operations of Ventas Realty Limited Partnership Ventas Subsidiaries Subsidiaries [Member] Consolidated Eliminations Consolidation, Eliminations [Member] Condensed financial statements, captions Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities Net cash used in investing activities Net change in borrowings under revolving credit facility Net change in intercompany debt Net Change in Intercompany Debt Represents the cash inflow or outflow resulting from intercompany borrowings. Cash distribution (to) from affiliates Payments of Distributions to Affiliates Proceeds from Noncontrolling Interests Net increase in cash and cash equivalents Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per share: Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Diluted [Abstract] Income from continuing operations attributable to common stockholders, including real estate dispositions Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Attributable to Parent Discontinued operations Net income attributable to common stockholders Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Denominator: Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract] Denominator for basic earnings per share - weighted average shares Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Effect of dilutive securities: Dilutive Securities, Effect on Basic Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Stock options (in shares) Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements Restricted stock awards (in shares) Effect of Dilutive Securities Restricted Stock Awards Additional shares included in the calculation of diluted EPS as a result of the potentially dilutive effect of restricted stock awards. OP units (in shares) Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Op Units Additional shares included in the calculation of diluted EPS as a result of the potentially dilutive effect of operating partnership units. Denominator for diluted earnings per share - adjusted weighted average shares Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Basic earnings per share: Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Income from continuing operations attributable to common stockholders, including real estate dispositions Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share Discontinued operations (in dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations and Disposal of Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share Net income attributable to common stockholders Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted earnings per share: Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] Income from continuing operations attributable to common stockholders, including real estate dispositions Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share Discontinued operations Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations and Disposal of Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share Net income attributable to common stockholders Earnings Per Share, Diluted CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEET Condensed Balance Sheet [Table Text Block] CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF INCOME Condensed Income Statement [Table Text Block] CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME Condensed Consolidating Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block] Disclosure of the condensed consolidating statements of comprehensive income. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS Condensed Cash Flow Statement [Table Text Block] Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Assets Real estate investments: Real Estate Investment Property, Net [Abstract] Land and improvements Land Buildings and improvements Investment Building and Building Improvements Construction in progress Construction in Progress, Gross Acquired lease intangibles Finite Lived Intangible Assets Related to Acquired Leases Finite lived intangible assets related to acquired leases. Gross real estate investments Real Estate Investment Property, at Cost Accumulated depreciation and amortization Real Estate Investment Property Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization Real estate investment property accumulated depreciation and amortization. Net real estate property Secured loans receivable and investments, net Secured Notes and Loans Receivable, Net For an unclassified balance sheet, a secured amount representing an agreement for an unconditional promise by the maker to pay the Entity (holder) a definite sum of money at a future date, net of any write-downs taken for collection uncertainty on the part of the holder. Such amount may include accrued interest receivable in accordance with the terms of the note. The note also may contain provisions and related items including a discount or premium, payable on demand, secured, or unsecured, interest bearing or noninterest bearing, among a myriad of other features and characteristics. This amount does not include amounts related to receivables held-for-sale. Investments in unconsolidated entities Real Estate Investments, Unconsolidated Real Estate and Other Joint Ventures Net real estate investments Real Estate Investments, Net Cash and cash equivalents Escrow deposits and restricted cash Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Deferred financing costs, net Deferred Finance Costs, Net Other assets Other Assets Total assets Assets Liabilities and equity Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Senior notes payable and other debt Accrued interest Interest Payable Accounts payable and other liabilities Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross Total liabilities Liabilities Redeemable OP unitholder and noncontrolling interests Temporary Equity, Carrying Amount, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests Commitments and contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Equity: Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Ventas stockholders' equity: Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Preferred stock, $1.00 par value; 10,000 shares authorized, unissued Preferred Stock, Value, Issued Common stock, $0.25 par value; 600,000 shares authorized, 294,358 and 297,901 shares issued at June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively Common Stock, Value, Issued Capital in excess of par value Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock Accumulated other comprehensive income Retained earnings (deficit) Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Treasury stock, 0 and 3,712 shares at June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively Treasury Stock, Value Total Ventas stockholders' equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Noncontrolling interest Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total equity Total liabilities and equity Liabilities and Equity Real estate assets classified as held for sale Disclosure of Long Lived Assets Held-for-sale [Table Text Block] Summary of the results of operations of properties sold or classified as held for sale Schedule of Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures [Table Text Block] ACCOUNTING POLICIES Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] INCOME TAXES Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Loans Receivable And Investments [Abstract] Loans Receivable And Investments [Abstract] Loans receivable and investments Loans Receivable And Investments [Table Text Block] Loans Receivable And Investments [Table Text Block] Principles of Consolidation Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Redeemable OP Unitholder and Noncontrolling Interests Consolidation, Subsidiaries or Other Investments, Consolidated Entities, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Values of Financial Instruments Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Discontinued Operations Discontinued Operations, Policy [Policy Text Block] INVESTMENTS IN UNCONSOLIDATED ENTITIES Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Above market lease intangibles Above Market Leases [Member] In-place and other lease intangibles Leases Acquired in Place and Other Lease Intangibles [Member] This element represents the amount of value allocated by a lessor (acquirer) to lease agreements which exist at acquisition of a leased property and other lease intangibles. Other intangibles Other Intangible Assets [Member] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Intangible assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Remaining weighted average amortization period Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Intangible assets: Intangible Assets, Net (Including Goodwill) [Abstract] Goodwill and other intangibles Goodwill And Other Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Goodwill And Other Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Accumulated amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Net intangible assets Intangible Assets, Net (Including Goodwill) Intangible liabilities: Intangible Liabilities [Abstract] Intangible Liabilities [Abstract] Below market lease intangibles Below Market Lease, Gross Other lease intangibles Other Finite Lived Intangible Liabilities, Gross Other Finite Lived Intangible Liabilities, Gross Accumulated amortization Finite Lived Intangible Liabilities Accumulated Amortization The accumulated amount of amortization of a major finite-lived intangible liabilities class. Indefinite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Purchase Options Indefinite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Purchase Options Indefinite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Purchase Options Net intangible liabilities Finite Lived Intangible Liabilities Net The aggregate sum of gross carrying value of a major finite-lived intangible liabilities class, less accumulated amortization. Below market leases, remaining weighted average amortization period Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Below Market Leases, Remaining Weighted Average Amortization Period Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Below Market Leases, Remaining Weighted Average Amortization Period Other lease intangibles, remaining weighted average amortization period Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Other Lease Intangibles, Remaining Weighted Average Amortization Period Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Other Lease Intangibles, Remaining Weighted Average Amortization Period Finite-lived intangible liabilities, remaining weighted average amortization period Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Remaining Weighted Average Amortization Period Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Remaining Weighted Average Amortization Period Unsecured revolving credit facility Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Domain] Variable Rate [Domain] London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] Line of credit facility, current borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity Line of credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Debt instrument, description of variable rate basis Debt Instrument, Description of Variable Rate Basis Debt instrument, basis spread on variable rate Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Letters of credit outstanding Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Remaining borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Debt Instrument, Future Maturities by Debt Category [Axis] Debt Instrument, Future Maturities by Debt Category [Axis] Categorization of debt included in the future maturities schedule. Debt Instrument, Future Maturities by Debt Category [Domain] Debt Instrument, Future Maturities by Debt Category [Domain] The category of debt included in the future maturities schedule. Principal Amount Due at Maturity Principal Amount Due at Maturity [Member] Principal amount of debt due at maturity. Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility Unsecured Revolving Credit Facilities [Member] Unsecured revolving credit facilities. Scheduled Periodic Amortization Scheduled Periodic Amortization [Member] Scheduled periodic amortization. Scheduled maturities of borrowing arrangements and other provisions excluding capital lease obligations Maturities of Long-term Debt [Abstract] 2013 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months 2014 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two 2015 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three 2016 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four 2017 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five Thereafter Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Total Unrestricted cash and cash equivalents Amount outstanding, net of cash and cash equivalents Debt Instrument, Carrying Amount Net of Cash Represents the aggregate carrying amount of long-term borrowings as of the balance sheet, net of cash and cash equivalents. Provision (benefit) for income taxes Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Income tax expense (benefit) Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net SENIOR NOTES PAYABLE AND OTHER DEBT Debt Disclosure [Text Block] LOANS RECEIVABLE AND INVESTMENTS Loans Receivable And Investments [Text Block] Loans Receivable And Investments [Text Block] Rental income Operating Leases, Income Statement, Lease Revenue Resident fees and services Other Real Estate Revenue Medical office building and other services revenue Management Fee and Construction Revenue Revenue received from third parties for management fees and construction revenue. Income from loans and investments Investment Income, Net Equity earnings in affiliates Investments in and Advances to Affiliates, Dividends or Interest Interest and other income Interest and Other Income Total revenues Expenses: Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Interest Interest Expense Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Nonproduction Property-level operating expenses Direct Costs of Leased and Rented Property or Equipment Medical office building services costs Construction and Development Costs General, administrative and professional fees General and Administrative Expense Loss (gain) on extinguishment of debt, net Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt Merger-related expenses and deal costs Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs Other Other General Expense Total expenses Costs and Expenses Income before income from unconsolidated entities, income taxes, discontinued operations, real estate dispositions and noncontrolling interest Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Income (loss) from unconsolidated entities Income Loss from Equity Method Investments and Remeasurement Gain on Equity Interest in Acquiree This item represents the entity's proportionate share for the period of the net income (loss) of its investee (such as unconsolidated subsidiaries and joint ventures) to which the equity method of accounting is applied. This item includes income or expense related to stock-based compensation based on the investor's grant of stock to employees of an equity method investee. This also includes the amount of gain recognized by the entity as a result of remeasuring to fair value the equity interest held in an acquiree before a business combination. Income tax (expense) benefit Income from continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Gain on real estate dispositions Gain on real estate dispositions not included in discontinued operations Gain on real estate dispositions not included in discontinued operations Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income attributable to common stockholders CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING INFORMATION (Unaudited) Condensed Financial Statements [Text Block] Computation of basic and diluted earnings per common share Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Summary information by reportable business segment Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Revenues from external customers and net real estate property by geographic area Schedule of Revenue from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets, by Geographical Areas [Table Text Block] LITIGATION Legal Matters and Contingencies [Text Block] Summary of senior notes payable and other debt Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block] Scheduled maturities of borrowing arrangements and other provisions excluding capital lease obligations Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] SUBSEQUENT EVENTS Subsequent Events [Text Block] Straight-line rent receivables, net Deferred Rent Receivables, Net Goodwill and other intangibles, net Goodwill And Other Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Carrying amount of intangible assets not otherwise specified in the taxonomy having a reasonably expected period of economic benefit, net of accumulated amortization and any impairment charges, and goodwill. Marketable securities Marketable Securities Other Other Assets, Miscellaneous Total other assets Other comprehensive income (loss): Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Foreign currency translation Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Net of Tax Change in unrealized gain on intra-entity currency loan Adjustment for Long-term Intercompany Transactions, Net of Tax Change in unrealized gain on marketable securities Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, Net of Tax Other Other Comprehensive Income, Other, Net of Tax Comprehensive income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income attributable to common stockholders Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Income Statement [Abstract] Rental income: Operating Leases, Income Statement, Lease Revenue [Abstract] Triple-net leased Rental Income from Triple Net Leases Rental income from triple-net leases. Medical office buildings Rental Income from Medical Office Buildings Rental income from medical office buildings. Total rental income Medical office building and other services revenue Property-level operating expenses: Cost of Real Estate Revenue [Abstract] Senior living Direct Costs of Leasing and Operating Senior Living Real Estate Property Direct costs associated with leasing and operating our senior living real estate portfolio including labor, food, utilities, marketing, management and other direct operating costs. Medical office buildings Direct Costs of Leasing and Operating Medical Office Buildings Direct costs associated with leasing and operating our medical office buildings. Total property-level operating expenses Total expenses Income before income (loss) from unconsolidated entities, income taxes, discontinued operations, real estate dispositions and noncontrolling interest Income from continuing operations Net income Earnings per common share: Basic: Discontinued operations Diluted: Weighted average shares used in computing earnings per common share: Basic Diluted Dividends declared per common share Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared Revenue Recognition [Abstract] Revenue Recognition [Abstract] Straight-line rent receivables Allowance for Straight-Line Rent Receivable Allowance for Straight-Line Rent Receivable Allowance for Straight-Line Rent Receivable Term of resident lease agreements, minimum Term of Resident Lease Agreements Minimum Represents the minimum term period of resident lease agreements. Term of resident lease agreements, maximum Term of Resident Lease Agreements Maximum Represents the maximum term period of resident lease agreements. Notice period to cancel lease agreements by the resident Notice Period to Cancel Lease Agreements by Resident Represents the notice period available to cancel lease agreements by the resident. Capital expenditures Segment Reporting Information Expenditures for Additions to Long-Lived Assets [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Payments to acquire productive assets Payments to Acquire Productive Assets Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Receivable Type [Axis] Receivable Type [Axis] Receivable [Domain] Receivable [Domain] Secured mortgage loans and other Secured Mortgage Loans And Other [Member] Secured Mortgage Loans And Other [Member] Unsecured loans receivable Unsecured Mortgage Loans Receivable [Member] Unsecured Mortgage Loans Receivable [Member] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Government-sponsored pooled loan investments Mortgage-backed Securities, Issued by US Government Sponsored Enterprises [Member] Marketable securities Marketable Debt And Equity Securities [Member] Marketable Debt And Equity Securities [Member] Senior unsecured corporate bonds Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Marketable equity securities Equity Securities [Member] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Secured notes and loans receivable, net Secured Notes And Loans Receivable, Net [Member] Secured Notes And Loans Receivable, Net [Member] Other assets Other Assets [Member] Eight Percent Loan Receivable Maturing in 2017 [Member] Eight Percent Loan Receivable Maturing in 2017 [Member] Eight Percent Loan Receivable Maturing in 2017 [Member] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Secured loan receivable, carrying amount and amortized cost Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Carrying Amount of Mortgages Mortgage loans, fair value Available-for-sale securities, amortized cost basis Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis Available-for-sale securities, fair value and carrying amount Available-for-sale securities, unrealized gain (loss) Available-For-Sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain (Loss), Before Tax Amount before tax of unrealized gain (loss) in accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI) on investments in debt and equity securities classified as available-for-sale. Secured loans, unsecured loans, and other available-for-sale securities, carrying amount Secured Loans, Unsecured Loans, And Other Available-For-Sale Securities Secured Loans, Unsecured Loans, And Other Available-For-Sale Securities Secured loans, unsecured loans, and other available-for-sale securities, amortized cost Secured Loans, Unsecured Loans, And Other Available-For-Sale Securities, Amortized Cost Secured Loans, Unsecured Loans, And Other Available-For-Sale Securities, Amortized Cost Secured loans, unsecured loans, and other available-for-sale securities, fair value Secured Loans, Unsecured Loans, And Other Available-For-Sale Securities, Fair Value Secured Loans, Unsecured Loans, And Other Available-For-Sale Securities, Fair Value Purchase of marketable securities Investment in loans receivable and other Secured loan receivable, amount Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Face Amount of Mortgages Secured loan receivable, interest rate Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Interest Rate Gain on the repayment of loans receivable Gain (Loss) on Sales of Loans, Net Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share) Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred stock, shares authorized Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred stock, shares issued Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, shares authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, shares issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued Treasury stock, shares Treasury Stock, Shares DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS Nature of Operations [Text Block] Number of reportable business segments Number of Reportable Segments MOB Operations All Other Corporate and Other [Member] Summary information by business segment Segment Reporting Information, Profit (Loss) [Abstract] Less: Interest and Other Income Property Operating Expenses Building Service Costs [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Segment NOI NOI The net result for the period of deducting interest and other income, property-level operating expenses, and medical office building services costs from total revenues. Segment profit Segment Reporting Information Segment Profit The amount of NOI adjusted for gains or losses from unconsolidated entities. Interest expense Depreciation and amortization General, administrative and professional fees Gain (loss) on extinguishment of debt Merger-related expenses and deal costs Other CONCENTRATION OF CREDIT RISK Concentration Risk Disclosure [Text Block] Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Other comprehensive income (loss): Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Total other comprehensive income (loss) Comprehensive income Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income attributable to common stockholders CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEET Net real estate investments Investment in and advances to affiliates Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures Intercompany loans Intercompany Liabilities Represents the carrying value of intercompany obligations, as of the balance sheet date. Total equity Total liabilities and equity