SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract] VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS SEC Schedule, 12-09, Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block] Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Convertible debt Convertible Debt [Member] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Convertible Senior Notes Due June 2018 Convertible Senior Notes Due June 2018 [Member] Convertible Senior Notes Due June 2018 [Member] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Restricted stock Restricted Stock [Member] Convertible debt securities Convertible Debt Securities [Member] Warrants Warrant [Member] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Antidilutive securities Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Principal amount Debt Instrument, Face Amount Interest rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Maximum number of equity instruments Debt Instrument Convertible Maximum Number Of Equity Instrument The maximum number of equity instruments that the holder of the debt instrument would receive in excess of the amount of principal that would be settled in cash if the debt was converted to equity. Business Combinations [Abstract] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segments [Domain] Segments [Domain] Independent Living Independent Living [Member] Independent Living [Member] Assisted Living and Memory Care Assisted Living And Memory Care [Member] Assisted Living And Memory Care [Member] CCRCs CCRCs Rental [Member] The Company's CCRCs - Rental segment includes large owned or leased communities that offer a variety of living arrangements and services to accommodate all levels of physical ability and health. Most of the Company's CCRCs have independent living, assisted living and skilled nursing available on one campus or within the immediate market, and some also include memory care/Alzheimer's units. Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Domain] Disposal Group Name [Domain] Communities Disposed Of Through Sale And Lease Terminations Communities Disposed Of Through Sale And Lease Terminations [Member] Communities Disposed Of Through Sale And Lease Terminations [Member] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Resident fees Revenue from Contract with Customer, Including Assessed Tax Facility operating expense Cost of Goods and Services Sold Cash lease payments Payments for Rent Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract] Disaggregation of Revenue [Table] Disaggregation of Revenue [Table] Health Care Services Health Care Services [Member] Health Care Services [Member] Health Care Organization, Revenue Sources [Axis] Health Care Organization, Revenue Sources [Axis] Health Care Organization, Revenue Sources [Domain] Health Care Organization, Revenue Sources [Domain] Private pay Self-Pay [Member] Government reimbursement Government Reimbursement [Member] Government Reimbursement [Member] Other third-party payor programs Third-Party Payor [Member] Resident fees Health Care, Resident Service [Member] Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] Revenue Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisitions by Unique Description [Axis] Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisitions by Unique Description [Axis] Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Name [Domain] Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Name [Domain] Lease termination and modification, net Lease Termination And Modification, Net [Member] Lease Termination And Modification, Net [Member] Receivable Type [Axis] Receivable Type [Axis] Receivable [Domain] Receivable [Domain] Promissory Note Promissory Note [Member] Promissory Note [Member] Collaborative Arrangement and Arrangement Other than Collaborative [Axis] Collaborative Arrangement and Arrangement Other than Collaborative [Axis] Collaborative Arrangement and Arrangement Other than Collaborative [Domain] Collaborative Arrangement and Arrangement Other than Collaborative [Domain] Joint Venture Joint Venture [Member] Joint Venture [Member] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Net cash paid for termination of operating leases Payments (Proceeds) For Termination Of Operating Leases Payments (Proceeds) For Termination Of Operating Leases Net cash paid for termination of capital and financing leases Payments (Proceeds) For Termination Of Capital And Financing Leases, Financing Activities Payments (Proceeds) For Termination Of Capital And Financing Leases, Financing Activities Payments to acquire interest in joint venture Payments to Acquire Interest in Joint Venture Number of communities owned Number Of Communities Owned Number Of Communities Owned Notes receivable Notes Receivable, Fair Value Disclosure Ownership Percentage Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Distributions to partners Proceeds from Distributions Received from Real Estate Partnerships Proceeds from notes receivable Proceeds from Collection of Notes Receivable Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Schedule of Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Axis] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Axis] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Health care licenses Community Purchase Options [Member] Community Purchase Options Trade names Health care licenses [Member] Health care licenses Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [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] Trade names Trade Names [Member] Total Contract-Based Intangible Assets [Member] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Intangible Assets, Gross (Excluding Goodwill) Intangible Assets, Gross (Excluding Goodwill) Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Amortization expense related to definite-lived intangible assets Amortization of Intangible Assets Mortgage notes payable Mortgages [Member] Disposal Group Classification [Axis] Disposal Group Classification [Axis] Disposal Group Classification [Domain] Disposal Group Classification [Domain] Disposal Group, Held-for-sale or Disposed of by Sale, Not Discontinued Operations Disposal Group, Held-for-sale or Disposed of by Sale, Not Discontinued Operations [Member] Real Estate Property Ownership [Axis] Real Estate Property Ownership [Axis] Real Estate Properties [Domain] Real Estate Properties [Domain] Current Property Ownership Status Current Property Ownership Status [Member] Current Property Ownership Status [Member] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Communities Acquired Previously Leased Or Managed Communities Acquired Previously Leased Or Managed [Member] Communities Acquired Previously Leased Or Managed [Member] Communities Disposed Of Through Sale Communities Disposed Of Through Sale [Member] Communities Disposed Of Through Sale [Member] Communities Disposed Of Through Lease Terminations Communities Disposed Of Through Lease Terminations [Member] Communities Disposed Of Through Lease Terminations [Member] 243 Communities Disposed Of Through Lease Terminations 37 Communities Disposed Of Through Lease Terminations [Member] 37 Communities Disposed Of Through Lease Terminations [Member] Three Communities Held For Sale Three Communities Held For Sale [Member] Three Communities Held For Sale [Member] Sale of 3 communities Sale of 3 communities [Member] Disclosure of sale of 3 communities CCRC Venture CCRC Ventures, LLC [Member] CCRC Ventures, LLC Sale of 14 Communities Sale of 14 Communities [Member] Sale of 14 Communities [Member] Sale Of 22 Communities Sale Of 22 Communities [Member] Sale Of 22 Communities [Member] Number of communities disposed of Disposal Group, Number Of Communities Disposed Of Disposal Group, Number Of Communities Disposed Of Number of unconsolidated ventures interest sold Number Of Unconsolidated Joint Ventures, Interest Sold Number Of Unconsolidated Joint Ventures, Interest Sold Number of communities acquired Number Of Communities Acquired Number Of Communities Acquired Number of communities leased Operating and Financing Leases, Number Of Communities Operating and Financing Leases, Number Of Communities Number of communities managed Number Of Communities Managed Number Of Communities Managed Number of communities managed by third party Number Of Communities Managed By Third Party Number Of Communities Managed By Third Party Number of communities classified as held for sale Number of Communities Classified As Held For Sale Number of communities classified as held for sale during the period. Assets held for sale Assets Held-for-sale, Long Lived, Fair Value Disclosure Mortgage debt SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate Net cash proceeds Proceeds from Sales of Business, Affiliate and Productive Assets Gain (loss) on sale of assets, net Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Assets Payment for extinguishment of debt and prepayment penalties Payment for Debt Extinguishment or Debt Prepayment Cost Income Statement [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization Cost, Depreciation and Amortization Non-cash stock-based compensation expense Share-based Payment Arrangement, Noncash Expense Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Deferred Revenue and Credits Deferred Revenue And Credits [Member] Deferred Revenue And Credits [Member] Deferred revenue Contract with Customer, Liability Monthly resident fees Contract With Customer, Liability, Deferred Revenue, Monthly Resident Fees Contract With Customer, Liability, Deferred Revenue, Monthly Resident Fees Revenue recognized Contract with Customer, Liability, Revenue Recognized Additions for allowance for doubtful accounts Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Period Increase (Decrease) Leases [Abstract] Facility operating expense Operating Lease, Facility Operating Expense Operating Lease, Facility Operating Expense Facility lease expense Operating Lease, Facility Expense Operating Lease, Facility Expense Operating lease expense Operating Lease, Expense Operating lease expense adjustment Operating Lease, Expense, Adjustment Operating Lease, Expense, Adjustment Changes in operating lease assets and liabilities for lessor capital expenditure reimbursements Increase (Decrease) In Operating Lease Assets And Liabilities For Lessor Capital Expenditure Reimbursements Increase (Decrease) In Operating Lease Assets And Liabilities For Lessor Capital Expenditure Reimbursements Operating cash flows from operating leases Operating Lease, Payments Non-cash recognition of right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease obligations Right-of-Use Asset Obtained in Exchange for Operating Lease Liability Depreciation and amortization Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset, Depreciation and Amortization Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset, Depreciation and Amortization Interest expense: financing lease obligations Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset, Interest Expense Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset, Interest Expense Financing lease expense Finance Lease, Interest Expense Operating cash flows from financing leases Finance Lease, Interest Payment on Liability Financing cash flows from financing leases Finance Lease, Principal Payments Changes in financing lease assets and liabilities for lessor capital expenditure reimbursement Increase Decrease In finance Lease Assets And Liabilities For Less or Capital Expenditure Reimbursements Increase Decrease In finance Lease Assets And Liabilities For Less or Capital Expenditure Reimbursements Total cash flows from financing leases Financing Lease, Payments Financing Lease, Payments Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Domain] Investment, Name [Domain] Welltower RIDEA Welltower RIDEA [Member] Welltower RIDEA [Member] Statistical Measurement [Axis] Statistical Measurement [Axis] Statistical Measurement [Domain] Statistical Measurement [Domain] Maximum Maximum [Member] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Domain] Counterparty Name [Domain] Welltower Inc. Welltower Inc. [Member] Welltower Inc. [Member] By Transaction Name [Axis] By Transaction Name [Axis] This element represents the categories of acquisition and disposal transactions that affect property, plant and equipment, by transaction name. By Transaction Name [Domain] By Transaction Name [Domain] Description of the specific acquisition or disposal transaction, which distinguishes it from similar transactions, by transaction name. Welltower Lease Transactions Welltower Lease Transactions [Member] Welltower Lease Transactions [Member] Welltower Lease Transactions, Lease Portfolio Maturing In 2028 Welltower Lease Transactions, Lease Portfolio Maturing In 2028 [Member] Welltower Lease Transactions, Lease Portfolio Maturing In 2028 [Member] Welltower Lease Transactions, Lease Portfolio Maturing In 2020 Welltower Lease Transactions, Lease Portfolio Maturing In 2020 [Member] Welltower Lease Transactions, Lease Portfolio Maturing In 2020 [Member] 37 Communities Disposed Of Through Lease Terminations Number of lease portfolios Number Of Lease Portfolios Number Of Lease Portfolios Number of communities leased Operating Leases, Number Of Communities Operating Leases, Number Of Communities Payments for lease termination Payments (Proceeds) For Lease Termination Payments (Proceeds) For Lease Termination Loss on facility lease termination and modification, net Gain (Loss) on Termination of Lease Base rent Operating Leases, Rent Expense Rent credit, potential future lease terminations Potential Lease Terminations, Rent Credit Percentage Potential Lease Terminations, Rent Credit Percentage Proceeds from sale of equity method investment Proceeds from Sale of Equity Method Investments Gain on sale of equity method investment Gain (Loss) on Sale of Equity Investments Number of leases not renewed Number Of Leases Not Renewed Number Of Leases Not Renewed Master leases not renewed, number of communities Master Leases Not Renewed, Number Of Communities Master Leases Not Renewed, Number Of Communities Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Lease cost Lease, Cost [Table Text Block] Summary of facility operating leases Lessee, Operating Lease, Disclosure [Table Text Block] Lessee, operating Lease, liability, maturity Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Maturity [Table Text Block] Future minimum operating lease payments Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Description of Business Nature of Operations [Text Block] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] 2 Leased Communities Owned By Joint Venture Terminated 2 Leased Communities Owned By Joint Venture Terminated [Member] 2 Leased Communities Owned By Joint Venture Terminated [Member] Termination Of Triple Net Leases Termination Of Triple Net Leases [Member] Termination Of Triple Net Leases [Member] Variable Interest Entities [Axis] Variable Interest Entities [Axis] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] Blackstone Venture Blackstone Venture [Member] Blackstone Venture [Member] Valuation Allowance by Deferred Tax Asset [Axis] Valuation Allowance by Deferred Tax Asset [Axis] Deferred Tax Asset [Domain] Deferred Tax Asset [Domain] Formation of the Blackstone Venture Formation of Blackstone Joint Venture [Member] Formation of Blackstone Joint Venture [Member] HCP, Inc. HCP, Inc. [Member] HCP, Inc. [Member] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Senior Housing Communities Senior Housing Communities [Member] Senior Housing Communities [Member] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Purchase price Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Term of lease Lessee, Operating Lease, Term of Contract Number of community leasehold interests contributed Equity Method Investments, Leasehold Interests Contributed, Number Of Communities Equity Method Investments, Leasehold Interests Contributed, Number Of Communities Payments to acquire joint venture Payments to Acquire Equity Method Investments Number of communities managed Equity Method Investments, Number Of Communities Managed Equity Method Investments, Number Of Communities Managed Investments in unconsolidated ventures Equity Method Investments Fair value of investment Equity Method Investments, Fair Value Disclosure Goodwill and asset impairment Asset Impairment Charges Change in valuation allowance Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Increase (Decrease), Amount Payment to complete sale of joint venture interest Payments For Divestiture Of Interest In Joint Venture Payments For Divestiture Of Interest In Joint Venture Gain (loss) on sale of assets, net Number of communities disposed through termination of lease Number of Communities Disposed Through Termination of Lease Number of Communities Disposed Through Termination of Lease Financing lease assets, carrying value Financing Lease Assets, Carrying Value Financing Lease Assets, Carrying Value Financing lease obligations, carrying value Financing Lease Obligations, Carrying Value Financing Lease Obligations, Carrying Value Number of communities previously subject to sale leaseback transactions Number Of Communities Previously Subject To Sale Leaseback Transactions Number Of Communities Previously Subject To Sale Leaseback Transactions Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Assets Assets [Abstract] Current assets Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Marketable securities Marketable Securities, Current Restricted cash Restricted Cash and Investments, Current Accounts receivable, net Accounts Receivable, after Allowance for Credit Loss, Current Prepaid expenses and other current assets, net Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Property, plant and equipment and leasehold intangibles, net Property, Plant, And Equipment And Finance Lease Right-Of-Use Asset, After Accumulated Depreciation And Amortization Property, Plant, And Equipment And Finance Lease Right-Of-Use Asset, After Accumulated Depreciation And Amortization Operating lease right-of-use assets Operating Lease, Right-of-Use Asset Restricted cash Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Noncurrent Investment in unconsolidated ventures Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures Goodwill Goodwill Other intangible assets, net Other Intangible Assets, Net Other assets, net Other Assets, Noncurrent Total assets Assets Liabilities and Equity Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current liabilities Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Current portion of long-term debt Long-term Debt, Current Maturities Current portion of financing lease obligations Finance Lease, Liability, Current Current portion of operating lease obligations Operating Lease, Liability, Current Trade accounts payable Accounts Payable, Trade, Current Accrued expenses Accrued Liabilities, Current Refundable fees and deferred revenue Refundable Fees And Deferred Revenue, Current Refundable Fees And Deferred Revenue, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Long-term debt, less current portion Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Financing lease obligations, less current portion Finance Lease, Liability, Noncurrent Operating lease obligations, less current portion Operating Lease, Liability, Noncurrent Deferred liabilities Deferred Credits and Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Deferred tax liability Deferred Income Tax Liabilities, Net Other liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total liabilities Liabilities Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, 50,000,000 shares authorized at December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018; no shares issued and outstanding Preferred Stock, Value, Issued Common stock, $0.01 par value, 400,000,000 shares authorized at December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018; 199,593,343 and 196,815,254 shares issued and 192,128,586 and 192,356,051 shares outstanding (including 7,252,459 and 5,756,435 unvested restricted shares), respectively Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in-capital Additional Paid in Capital Treasury stock, at cost; 7,464,757 and 4,459,203 shares at December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, respectively Treasury Stock, Value Accumulated deficit Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Total Brookdale Senior Living Inc. 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 Accounting Policies [Abstract] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table] Minimum Minimum [Member] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Type of Adoption [Domain] Type of Adoption [Domain] ASU 2016-02 Accounting Standards Update 2016-02 [Member] ASU 2014-09 Accounting Standards Update 2014-09 [Member] Accounting Standards Update 2016-02, Impairment Loss [Member] Accounting Standards Update 2016-02, Impairment Loss [Member] Accounting Standards Update 2016-02, Impairment Loss [Member] Product and Service [Axis] Product and Service [Axis] Product and Service [Domain] Product and Service [Domain] Facility operating expense Real Estate [Member] Reimbursed costs incurred on behalf of managed communities Reimbursement Costs, Managed Communities [Member] Reimbursement Costs, Managed Communities [Member] Prospective Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Prospective Adoption of New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Accounting Guidance [Domain] Accounting Guidance [Domain] ASU 2016-18 Accounting Standards Update 2016-18 [Member] ASU 2016-15 Accounting Standards Update 2016-15 [Member] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] Compensation Related Costs [Abstract] Compensation Related Costs [Abstract] Award vesting period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Award vesting rights percentage Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Rights, Percentage Fair value vesting rights, percentage Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Rights, Fair Value Assumptions, Percentage Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Rights, Fair Value Assumptions, Percentage Weighted average volatility rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Weighted Average Volatility Rate Risk free interest rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate Revenue Recognition Revenue Recognition [Abstract] Term of residency agreements - minimum Term of Residency Agreements Minimum Term of Residency Agreements- Minimum. Term of residency agreements - maximum Term Of Residency Agreements Maximum Term Of Residency Agreements Maximum Accounts Receivable Accounts Receivable, after Allowance for Credit Loss [Abstract] Allowance for doubtful accounts Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Current Accounts receivable due from third-party payor, retroactive adjustment Health Care Organization, Accounts Receivable Due from Third-Party Payor, Retroactive Adjustment ASU Adoption New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Abstract] Lease liabilities Operating Lease, Liability Net liabilities Operating Lease Assets (Liabilities) Operating Lease Assets (Liabilities) Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle Cumulative Effect of New Accounting Principle in Period of Adoption Asset impairment Deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Gross Valuation allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Increase (decrease) to net cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Increase to net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Increase (decrease) to net cash used in financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Costs incurred Decrease in resident fee revenue Increase (Decrease) In Resident Fee Revenue, Net Of Facility Operating Expense Increase (Decrease) In Resident Fee Revenue, Net Of Facility Operating Expense Increase (decrease) in facility operating expense Increase (Decrease) In Facility Operating Expense Increase (Decrease) In Facility Operating Expense Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Domain] Award Type [Domain] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Stockholders' Equity, Number of Shares, Par Value and Other Disclosures [Abstract] Stockholders' Equity, Number of Shares, Par Value and Other Disclosures [Abstract] Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share) Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred stock, shares issued (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Preferred stock, shares outstanding (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, shares authorized (in shares) Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, shares issued (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Common stock, unvested restricted shares (in shares) Common Stock, Other Shares, Outstanding Treasury stock, shares (in shares) Treasury Stock, Shares Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited) Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Principles of Consolidation Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition Revenue [Policy Text Block] Lease Accounting Lessee, Leases [Policy Text Block] Gain on Sale of Assets Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Including Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Purchase Accounting Business Combinations Policy [Policy Text Block] Deferred Financing Costs Deferred Charges, Policy [Policy Text Block] Stock-Based Compensation Share-based Payment Arrangement [Policy Text Block] Income Taxes Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash Cash and Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Marketable Securities Marketable Securities, Policy [Policy Text Block] Accounts Receivable, Net Receivable [Policy Text Block] Assets Held for Sale Assets Held for Sale Policy [Text Block] Disclosure of accounting policy for assets classified as held for sale. Property, Plant and Equipment and Leasehold Intangibles Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Investment in Unconsolidated Ventures Equity Method Investments [Policy Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Self-Insurance Liability Accruals Self Insurance Reserve [Policy Text Block] Treasury Stock Stockholders' Equity, Policy [Policy Text Block] Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements/Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Reclassifications Reclassifications [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Legal Matters and Contingencies [Text Block] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Domain] Scenario [Domain] Forecast Forecast [Member] Ventas, Inc Ventas, Inc [Member] Ventas, Inc [Member] Lease Arrangement, Type [Axis] Lease Arrangement, Type [Axis] Lease Arrangement, Type [Domain] Lease Arrangement, Type [Domain] Master Lease And Security Agreement Master Lease And Security Agreement [Member] Master Lease And Security Agreement [Member] Prior number of communities Operating Leases, Prior Number Of Communities Operating Leases, Prior Number Of Communities Additional number of communities Operating Leases, Additional Number Of Communities Operating Leases, Additional Number Of Communities Number of communities added to agreement Operating Leases, Number Of Communities Added To Agreement During Period Operating Leases, Number Of Communities Added To Agreement During Period Number of communities to be added to agreement Operating Leases, Number Of Communities To Be Added To Agreement During Period Operating Leases, Number Of Communities To Be Added To Agreement During Period Number of extensions Lessee, Operating Lease, Number Of Extensions Lessee, Operating Lease, Number Of Extensions Extension term Lessee, Operating Lease, Renewal Term Rent expense Operating Leases, Total Rent Expense Operating Leases, Total Rent Expense Rent credit Operating Leases, Annual Rent Credit Operating Leases, Annual Rent Credit Rent credit after change of control Deferred Rent Credit After Change Of Control Deferred Rent Credit After Change Of Control Base rent escalator, CPI increase Operating Leases, Base Rent Escalator, CPI Increase, Percentage Operating Leases, Base Rent Escalator, CPI Increase, Percentage Base rent escalator, CPI increase multiplier Operating Leases, Base Rent Escalator, CPI Increase Multiplier Operating Leases, Base Rent Escalator, CPI Increase Multiplier Base rent escalator, CPI decrease Operating Leases, Base Rent Escalator, CPI Decrease, Percentage Operating Leases, Base Rent Escalator, CPI Decrease, Percentage Investment minimum, unit per lease Lessee, Operating Leases, Investment Minimum, Unit Per Lease Lessee, Operating Leases, Investment Minimum, Unit Per Lease Period of lease Lessee, Operating Leases, Investment Minimum, Duration Of Lease Lessee, Operating Leases, Investment Minimum, Duration Of Lease Investment in capital improvements Payments for Capital Improvements Payment for change of control fees Payment For Leasing Arrangement Fees Payment For Leasing Arrangement Fees Option to terminate, rent reduction percentage Lessee, Operating Leases, Option To Terminate, Rent Reduction, Percentage Of Proceeds Of Terminations Lessee, Operating Leases, Option To Terminate, Rent Reduction, Percentage Of Proceeds Of Terminations Management percent fee Property Management Fee, Percent Fee Number of communities exercised to market for sale and sold Disposal Group, Number Of Communities Exercised To Market For Sale And Sold Disposal Group, Number Of Communities Exercised To Market For Sale And Sold Reduction of rent for terminating communities Lessee, Operating Leases, Option To Terminate, Reduction Of Rent For Terminating Communities Lessee, Operating Leases, Option To Terminate, Reduction Of Rent For Terminating Communities Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Common Stock Common Stock [Member] Additional Paid-In- Capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Treasury Stock Treasury Stock [Member] Accumulated Deficit Retained Earnings [Member] Noncontrolling Interest Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Balances at beginning of period Issuance of common stock under Associate Stock Purchase Plan Stock Issued During Period, Value, Employee Stock Purchase Plan Restricted stock, net Stock Issued During Period, Value, Restricted Stock Award, Net of Forfeitures Shares withheld for employee taxes Share-based Payment Arrangement, Decrease for Tax Withholding Obligation Other, net Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Other Compensation expense related to restricted stock grants APIC, Share-based Payment Arrangement, Restricted Stock Unit, Increase for Cost Recognition Purchase of treasury stock Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle (Note 2) Net income (loss) Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Noncontrolling interest contribution Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Business Combination Noncontrolling interest distribution Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders Balances at end of period Balances at beginning of period (in shares) Issuance of common stock under Associate Stock Purchase Plan (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Employee Stock Purchase Plans Restricted stock, net (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Restricted Stock Award, Net of Forfeitures Purchase of treasury stock (in shares) Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired Shares withheld for employee taxes (in shares) Share-based Payment Arrangement, Shares Withheld for Tax Withholding Obligation Balances at end of period (in shares) Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payment, Due [Abstract] Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payment, Due [Abstract] 2020 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Remainder of Fiscal Year 2021 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Two 2022 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Three 2023 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Four 2024 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Five Thereafter Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due after Year Five Total lease payments Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Imputed interest and variable lease payments Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Undiscounted Excess Amount Total lease obligations Finance Lease, Liability, Payment, Due [Abstract] Finance Lease, Liability, Payment, Due [Abstract] 2020 Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Remainder of Fiscal Year 2021 Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Two 2022 Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Three 2023 Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Four 2024 Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Five Thereafter Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due after Year Five Total lease payments Finance Lease, Liability, Payment, Due Purchase option liability and non-cash gain on future sale of property Finance Lease, Liability, Option to Purchase and Non-Cash Gain on Future Sale of Property Finance Lease, Liability, Option to Purchase and Non-Cash Gain on Future Sale of Property Imputed interest and variable lease payments Finance Lease, Liability, Undiscounted Excess Amount Total lease obligations Finance Lease, Liability Supplemental Schedule of Non-cash Operating, Investing and Financing Activities: Cash Flow, Noncash Investing and Financing Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisitions [Table] Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisitions [Table] Capital Expenditure, Type [Axis] Capital Expenditure, Type [Axis] Capital Expenditure, Type [Axis] Capital Expenditure, Type [Domain] Capital Expenditure, Type [Domain] [Domain] for Capital Expenditure, Type [Axis] Non-Development Non-Development [Member] Non-Development [Member] Development Development [Member] Development [Member] Non-development - Reimbursable Non-development - Reimbursable [Member] Non-development - Reimbursable [Member] Development - Reimbursable Development - Reimbursable [Member] Development - Reimbursable [Member] Additions to property, plant and equipment and leasehold intangibles, net Additions to property, plant and equipment and leasehold improvements [Member] Amount of acquisition of long-lived, physical assets used in the normal conduct of business and not intended for resale. Examples include, but are not limited to, land, buildings, machinery and equipment, office equipment, furniture and fixtures, and computer equipment. Acquisition of assets, net of related payables and cash received Series of Individually Immaterial Business Acquisitions [Member] Proceeds from sale of assets, net Proceeds from sale of assets, net [Member] The cash inflow from the sale of property, plant and equipment (capital expenditures), software, and other intangible assets. Acquisition of assets, net of related payables [Line Items] Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisitions [Line Items] Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Interest paid Interest Paid, Excluding Capitalized Interest, Operating Activities Income taxes paid, net of refunds Income Taxes Paid, Net Capital expenditures, net of related payables Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Trade accounts payable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable, Trade Property, plant and equipment and leasehold intangibles, net Property, plant and equipment and leasehold intangibles, net Acquisition of tangible assets that are held by an entity for use in the production or supply of goods and services, for rental to others, or for administrative purposes along with the intangible leasehold improvements made that increased the value asset; net of accumulated depreciation. Other intangible assets, net Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Intangible Assets Acquired, Net Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Intangible Assets Acquired, Net Financing lease obligations Increase (Decrease) In Financing Lease Obligations Increase (Decrease) In Financing Lease Obligations Other liabilities Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Other Liabilities Assumed Net cash paid Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Prepaid expenses and other assets, net Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Assets held for sale Increase (Decrease) in Assets Held-for-sale Property, plant and equipment and leasehold intangibles, net Increase (Decrease) In Property, Plant And Equipment And Leasehold Intangibles, Net Increase (Decrease) In Property, Plant And Equipment And Leasehold Intangibles, Net Investments in unconsolidated ventures Payments for (Proceeds from) Businesses and Interest in Affiliates Long-term debt (Increase) Decrease In Long Term Debt (Increase) Decrease In Long Term Debt Refundable fees and deferred revenue Increase (Decrease) In Refundable Entrance Fees And Deferred Revenue Increase (Decrease) In Refundable Entrance Fees And Deferred Revenue Other liabilities (Increase) Decrease In Other Liabilities (Increase) Decrease In Other Liabilities Loss (gain) on sale of assets, net Loss (gain) on facility lease termination and modification, net Net cash received Proceeds (Repayments) from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment, Net Proceeds (Repayments) from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment, Net Financing lease obligations Lease Obligation Incurred Deferred liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Liabilities Net cash paid Property, plant and equipment and leasehold intangibles, net Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Net Nonmonetary Assets Acquired (Liabilities Assumed) Financing lease obligations Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Consideration To Joint Venture Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Consideration To Joint Venture Net cash paid Lessee, Operating Leases Lessee, Operating Leases [Text Block] Lessee, Finance Leases Lessee, Finance Leases [Text Block] Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Income tax expense (benefit) Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of the benefit for income taxes to the amount computed at the U.S. Federal statutory rate Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Components of deferred tax assets and liabilities Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of impact from Tax Cuts and Jobs Act Schedule Of Impact From Tax Cuts And Jobs Act [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Impact From Tax Cuts And Jobs Act [Table Text Block] Summary of valuation allowance Summary of Valuation Allowance [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of the unrecognized tax benefits Schedule of Unrecognized Tax Benefits Roll Forward [Table Text Block] Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Management fees Management Service [Member] Revenue Revenues [Abstract] Expense Cost of Revenue [Abstract] General and administrative expense (including non-cash stock-based compensation expense of $23,026, $26,067 and $27,832, respectively) General and Administrative Expense Facility operating lease expense Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Nonproduction Goodwill and asset impairment Loss (gain) on facility lease termination and modification, net Total operating expense Costs and Expenses Income (loss) from operations Operating Income (Loss) Interest income Investment Income, Interest Interest expense: Interest Expense [Abstract] Debt Interest Expense, Debt, Excluding Amortization Financing lease obligations Amortization of deferred financing costs and debt discount Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs and Discounts Change in fair value of derivatives Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Debt modification and extinguishment costs Gain (Loss) on Extinguishment of Debt Equity in earnings (loss) of unconsolidated ventures Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Other non-operating income (loss) Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Income (loss) before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Benefit (provision) for income taxes Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net income (loss) Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interest Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income (loss) attributable to Brookdale Senior Living Inc. common stockholders Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Basic and diluted net income (loss) per share attributable to Brookdale Senior Living Inc. common stockholders (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted Weighted average shares used in computing basic and diluted net loss per share (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic and Diluted Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Salaries and wages Accrued Salaries, Current Insurance reserves Accrued Insurance, Current Vacation Accrued Vacation, Current Real estate taxes Accrual for Taxes Other than Income Taxes, Current Interest Interest Payable, Current Accrued utilities Accrued Utilities Taxes payable Accrued Income Taxes, Current Other Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Total Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Line of Credit Facility [Table] Line of Credit Facility [Table] Debt Instrument, Term Of Agreement [Axis] Debt Instrument, Term Of Agreement [Axis] Debt Instrument, Term Of Agreement [Axis] Debt Instrument, Term Of Agreement [Domain] Debt Instrument, Term Of Agreement [Domain] [Domain] for Debt Instrument, Term Of Agreement [Axis] Applicable Margin, Less Than Or Equal To 35% Utilization Applicable Margin, Less Than Or Equal To 35% Utilization [Member] Applicable Margin, Less Than Or Equal To 35% Utilization [Member] Applicable Margin, Greater Than 35% But Less Than Or Equal To 50% Utilization Applicable Margin, Greater Than 35% But Less Than Or Equal To 50% Utilization [Member] Applicable Margin, Greater Than 35% But Less Than Or Equal To 50% Utilization [Member] Applicable Margin, Greater Than 50% Utilization Applicable Margin, Greater Than 50% Utilization [Member] Applicable Margin, Greater Than 50% Utilization [Member] Unused Commitment Fee, Outstanding Debt Percentage Greater Than Or Equal To 50% Unused Commitment Fee, Outstanding Debt Percentage Greater Than Or Equal To 50% [Member] Unused Commitment Fee, Outstanding Debt Percentage Greater Than Or Equal To 50% [Member] Unused Commitment Fee, Outstanding Debt Percentage Less Than 50% Unused Commitment Fee, Outstanding Debt Percentage Less Than 50% [Member] Unused Commitment Fee, Outstanding Debt Percentage Less Than 50% [Member] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Domain] Variable Rate [Domain] LIBOR London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] Revolving Credit Facility Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Letter of credit sublimit Letter of credit sublimit [Member] Letter of credit sublimit on the secured line of credit facility Swingline Line of Credit Swingline Line of Credit [Member] A contractual arrangement with a lender under which swingline borrowings can be made up to a specific amount with same-day borrowing permitted, and under which borrowings outstanding may be either short-term or long-term, depending upon the particulars. Option to increase maximum borrowing capacity Option to increase maximum borrowing capacity [Member] Amount available to increase the revolving credit facility. Letter of Credit Letter of Credit [Member] Line of Credit Line of Credit [Member] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] Fifth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement Fifth Amended And Restated Credit Agreement [Member] Fifth Amended And Restated Credit Agreement [Member] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Credit Facility, maximum borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Facility utilization percentage Line Of Credit Facility, Facility Utilization Percentage Line Of Credit Facility, Facility Utilization Percentage Basis spread on variable rate basis Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Quarterly commitment fee Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage Line of credit percentage outstanding Line Of Credit, Percentage Outstanding Line Of Credit, Percentage Outstanding Percentage of loan availability from pledged assets from mortgaged assets, maximum Percentage Of Loan Availability From Pledged Assets From Mortgaged Assets, Maximum Percentage Of Loan Availability From Pledged Assets From Mortgaged Assets, Maximum Borrowings outstanding Long-term Line of Credit, Noncurrent Letters of credit outstanding Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Current borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity Self Insurance Reserves [Abstract] Self Insurance Reserves [Abstract] Self-Insurance Self-Insurance Reserves [Text Block] Self-Insurance Reserves [Text Block] Purchase of treasury stock Purchase Of Treasury Stock [Member] Purchase Of Treasury Stock [Member] Assets designated as held for sale Disposal Group, Held-for-sale, Not Discontinued Operations [Member] Lease termination and modification, net Noncash, Lease Termination And Modification, Net [Member] Noncash, Lease Termination And Modification, Net [Member] Treasury stock Accounts payable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable Prepaid expenses and other assets, net Assets held for sale Property, plant and equipment and leasehold intangibles, net Financing lease obligations Operating lease right-of-use assets Operating Lease, Right Of Use Assets Operating Lease, Right Of Use Assets Operating lease obligations Operating Lease Obligation Operating Lease Obligation Other liabilities Net Net Net amount of non-cash operating, investing and financing activities Share-based Payment Arrangement [Abstract] Restricted stock awards Disclosure of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table Text Block] Current year grants of restricted shares and restricted stock units Current year grants of restricted shares and restricted stock units [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of current year grants of restricted shares and restricted stock units under the Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan. Cash and escrow deposits - restricted Schedule of Cash and Cash Equivalents [Table Text Block] Property, plant and equipment, useful lives Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Consolidated balance sheet Schedule of New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Table Text Block] Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Domain] Measurement Frequency [Domain] Nonrecurring Fair Value, Nonrecurring [Member] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain] Level 2 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Level 3 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Measurement Basis [Axis] Measurement Basis [Axis] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Portion at Fair Value Measurement Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Reported Value Measurement 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] Marketable securities Marketable Securities Debt Long-term Debt Goodwill impairment Goodwill, Impairment Loss Amount of carrying amount in excess of fair value Reporting Unit, Amount Of Carrying Amount In Excess of Fair Value Reporting Unit, Amount Of Carrying Amount In Excess of Fair Value Property, plant and equipment impairment Tangible Asset Impairment Charges Capitalization rate Property, Plant And Equipment, Capitalization Rate Property, Plant And Equipment, Capitalization Rate Equity method investment impairment Equity Method Investment, Other than Temporary Impairment Non-cash impairment charge Asset Impairment Charges, Non-Cash Charge Asset Impairment Charges, Non-Cash Charge Impairment of assets held for sale Impairment of Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed of Operating lease right-of-use assets Operating lease, number of communities impaired Operating Lease, Right-of-Use Asset, Number Of Communities Impaired Operating Lease, Right-of-Use Asset, Number Of Communities Impaired Right of use assets impaired Operating Lease, Right Of Use Asset, Impaired Operating Lease, Right Of Use Asset, Impaired Federal: Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Current Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total Federal Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations State: State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Current Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred (included in Federal above) Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total State State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations Total Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Self insurance reserve Self Insurance Reserve Self insurance reserves, noncurrent Self Insurance Reserve, Noncurrent Accrual receivable Loss Contingency, Receivable Accrued reserves decreased facility operating expense Increase (Decrease) in Liability for Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense Reserve Cash deposits for self insured retention risk Self- Insurance Reserves, Cash Deposits For Self Insured Retention Risk Self- Insurance Reserves, Cash Deposits For Self Insured Retention Risk Letters of credit associated to the secured self-insured retention risk Cash And Letters Of Credit For Self Insured Retention Risk The total amount of cash and letters of credit associated to the secured self-insured retention risk. Cash deposit to collateralize the insurance policy Cash deposit to collateralize the insurance policy Cash deposit to collateralize the insurance policy Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Shares granted (in dollars per share) Share Based Compensation Shares Value Per Share The grant date fair values for purposes of disclosing shares potentially issuable under restricted stock awards on all restricted stock plans and other required information pertaining to awards in the customized range. Total value of restricted shares granted Shares Issued, Value, Share-based Payment Arrangement, before Forfeiture Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Domain] Plan Name [Domain] ESPP Employee Stock Purchase Plan [Member] Information on the Company's Employee Stock Purchase Plan. Unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested share-based compensation arrangements granted Share-based Payment Arrangement, Nonvested Award, Cost Not yet Recognized, Amount Period over which cost is expected to be recognized Share-based Payment Arrangement, Nonvested Award, Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Percentage payroll deduction that each employee may deduct Eligible Employee Maximum Quarterly Contribution Percentage Allowed Maximum percentage payroll deduction per employee per quarter. Maximum shares (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Maximum Number of Shares Per Employee Percentage of closing market price paid for purchase of whole shares Percentage Of Common Stock Closing Market Price To Purchase Whole Shares Percentage of closing market price paid for purchase of common stock shares through employee stock purchase plan. Number of shares reserved (in shares) Shares Held In Employee Stock Purchase Plan Reserved Number of reserved shares held by the Employee Stock Purchase Plan. Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Secured Debt Secured Debt [Member] Non-Recourse Supplemental Loan Non-Recourse Supplemental Loan [Member] Non-Recourse Supplemental Loan [Member] Mortgage Debt Due 2019 Mortgage Debt Due 2019 [Member] Mortgage Debt Due 2019 [Member] Non-Recourse First Mortgages Non-Recourse First Mortgages [Member] Non-Recourse First Mortgages [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Number of communities securing debt Debt Instrument, Number Of Communities Securing Debt Debt Instrument, Number Of Communities Securing Debt Percentage bearing fixed interest Long-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Fixed Interest, Percentage Rate Percentage bearing variable interest Long-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Variable Interest, Percentage Rate Extinguishment of debt Extinguishment of Debt, Amount Segment Reporting [Abstract] Segment Information Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Retirement Benefits [Abstract] Retirement Plans Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Increase in valuation allowance before consideration of the Tax Act Valuation Allowance, Before Consideration Of Tax Act, Increase (Decrease), Amount Valuation Allowance, Before Consideration Of Tax Act, Increase (Decrease), Amount Increase due to the adoption of ASC 842 Valuation Allowance, Adoption Of Accounting Standards Update 2016-02, Increase (Decrease), Amount Valuation Allowance, Adoption Of Accounting Standards Update 2016-02, Increase (Decrease), Amount Other decrease during the year Valuation Allowance, Other Increase (Decrease), Amount Valuation Allowance, Other Increase (Decrease), Amount Total increase (decrease) in valuation allowance before consideration of the Tax Act Valuation Allowance, Before Consideration Of Tax Cuts And Jobs Act But After Accounting Standards Update, Increase (Decrease), Amount Valuation Allowance, Before Consideration Of Tax Cuts And Jobs Act But After Accounting Standards Update, Increase (Decrease), Amount Impact of the Tax Act on net operating loss usage Valuation Allowance, Impact On Net Operating Loss Carryforward, Increase (Decrease), Amount Valuation Allowance, Impact On Net Operating Loss Carryforward, Increase (Decrease), Amount Total increase (decrease) in valuation allowance Convertible notes payable Derivative [Table] Derivative [Table] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Interest rate caps Interest Rate Cap [Member] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] Current notional balance Derivative Asset, Notional Amount Weighted average fixed cap rate Derivative, Average Cap Interest Rate Estimated asset fair value (included in other assets, net) Interest Rate Derivative Assets, at Fair Value Accrued Expenses Schedule of Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities [Table Text Block] Revenues Revenues Loss (gain) on facility lease termination and modification, net Income (loss) from operations Income (loss) before income taxes Net income (loss) attributable to Brookdale Senior Living Inc. common stockholders Weighted average basic and diluted income (loss) per share (in dollars per share) SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table] SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table] SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis] SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis] SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain] SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain] Allowance for Doubtful Accounts SEC Schedule, 12-09, Allowance, Credit Loss [Member] Deferred Tax Valuation Allowance SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset [Member] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Federal and state Federal and State [Member] The designated tax department of Federal and a state or local government entitled to levy and collect income taxes from the entity. SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items] SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items] Valuation and qualifying accounts [Roll forward] SEC Schedule, 12-09, Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward] Balance at beginning of period SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Amount Charged to costs and expenses SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Additions, Charge to Cost and Expense Charged to other accounts SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Additions, Charge to Other Account Deductions SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Deduction Balance at end of period Net operating loss carryforwards valuation allowance Tax credit valuation allowance Tax Credit Carryforward, Valuation Allowance Valuation allowance expense (benefit) from Tax Cuts and Jobs Act Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Change In Tax Rate, Deferred Tax Asset, Provisional Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Change In Tax Rate, Deferred Tax Asset, Provisional Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Supplemental cash flow information Schedule of Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Table Text Block] Schedule of cash and cash equivalents Schedule Of Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash And Restricted Cash Equivalents [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash And Restricted Cash Equivalents [Table Text Block] Cash and cash equivalents Restricted cash Long-term restricted cash Total cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash shown in the consolidated statements of cash flows Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Line Items] Gross Carrying Amount Goodwill, Gross Dispositions and Other Reductions Goodwill, Disposals And Other Reductions Goodwill, Disposals And Other Reductions Accumulated Impairment Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss Net Long-term Debt Long-term Debt [Member] 2020 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months 2021 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two 2022 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three 2023 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four 2024 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five Thereafter Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Total obligations Total obligations Including current and noncurrent portions, aggregate carrying amount of long-term borrowings as of the balance sheet date. May include notes payable, bonds payable, commercial loans, mortgage loans, convertible debt, subordinated debt and other types of debt, which had initial maturities beyond one year or beyond the normal operating cycle, if longer, and before deducting unamortized discount or premiums or interest portion of loan, if any. Less amount representing debt discount and deferred financing costs, net Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount Total Lessee, Lease, Description [Table] Lessee, Lease, Description [Table] Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items] Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items] Number of operating communities leased Number of financing communities leased Financing Leases, Number Of Communities Financing Leases, Number Of Communities Operating lease, weighted average remaining lease term Operating Lease, Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term Finance lease, weighted average remaining lease term Finance Lease, Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term Renewal term Lessee, Finance and Operating Lease, Renewal Term Lessee, Finance and Operating Lease, Renewal Term Operating lease, weighted average discount rate Operating Lease, Weighted Average Discount Rate, Percent Finance lease, weighted average discount rate Finance Lease, Weighted Average Discount Rate, Percent Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, Net Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Leases, Operating [Abstract] Leases, Operating [Abstract] Cash basis payment - operating leases Straight-line lease (income) expense Straight Line Rent Adjustments Amortization of deferred gain Amortization Of Deferred Gains From Sale Leaseback Transaction The amount of expense charged against earnings by an Entity to record deferred gains from sale leaseback transactions. Facility lease expense 33 Communities Disposed Of Through Lease Terminations 33 Communities Disposed Of Through Lease Terminations [Member] 33 Communities Disposed Of Through Lease Terminations [Member] 37 Communities Disposed Of Through Operations and or Management Termination 37 Communities Disposed Of Through Operations and or Management Termination [Member] 37 Communities Disposed Of Through Operations and or Management Termination [Member] 37 Communities Disposed Of Through Management Agreement 37 Communities Disposed Of Through Management Agreement [Member] 37 Communities Disposed Of Through Management Agreement [Member] 37 Communities Disposed Of Through Management Termination 34 Communities Disposed Of Through Management Termination [Member] 34 Communities Disposed Of Through Management Termination [Member] 20 Of The 33 Communities Disposed Of Through Lease Terminations 20 Of The 33 Communities Disposed Of Through Lease Terminations [Member] 20 Of The 33 Communities Disposed Of Through Lease Terminations [Member] RIDEA Ventures Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary, Real Estate Company [Member] Variable Interest Entity (VIE) which is not included in the consolidated financial statements of the entity because the entity does not have a controlling financial interest (not the primary beneficiary). Master Lease Transactions Master Lease Transactions [Member] Master Lease Transactions [Member] RIDEA Ventures Restructuring RIDEA Ventures Restructuring [Member] RIDEA Ventures Restructuring [Member] Payment to acquire leased assets Payment To Acquire Leased Assets Payment To Acquire Leased Assets Annual rent reduction Operating Lease, Annual Rent Reduction Operating Lease, Annual Rent Reduction Number of communities with rent reduction Numbers Of Communities With Rent Reduction Numbers Of Communities With Rent Reduction Number of joint ventures Number Of Joint Ventures Number Of Joint Ventures Proceeds from sale of joint venture interest Proceeds from Divestiture of Interest in Joint Venture Payments to acquire asset from joint venture Payments to Acquire Asset From Joint Venture Payments to Acquire Asset From Joint Venture Number of communities management is retained Number Of Communities, Management Retained Number Of Communities, Management Retained Non-cash management contract termination fee Gain (Loss) on Contract Termination Reduction in lease liabilities Increase (Decrease) In Lease Liabilities Increase (Decrease) In Lease Liabilities Deferred revenue Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Revenue Reduction in capital lease obligations and assets under lease Increase (Decrease) In Long Term Debt And Capital Lease Obligations Increase (Decrease) In Long Term Debt And Capital Lease Obligations Assets under leases Assets Under Leases Assets Under Leases Capital lease obligations Capital Lease Obligations Gain on facility lease termination Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract] Investment in Unconsolidated Ventures Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures Disclosure [Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Property, Plant and Equipment and Leasehold Intangibles, Net Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Equity [Abstract] Share Repurchase Program Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Equity Method Investments Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block] 2019 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months 2020 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years 2021 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2022 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years 2023 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Total Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Mortgages notes payable Other notes payable Notes Payable, Other Payables [Member] Current portion Long-term Debt and Lease Obligation, Current Total long-term debt, less current portion Long-term Debt and Lease Obligation Weighted average interest rate Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate, at Point in Time Debt discount and deferred financing costs Matching contribution Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Match Maximum contributed compensation Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Employees' Gross Pay Additional matching contribution Additional matching contribution Percentage of additional matching contribution by the employer into the retirement plan. Expense related to retirement savings plan Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Debt Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Earnings Per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Schedule of debt Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Annual aggregate scheduled maturities of long-term debt obligations outstanding Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Number of additional entry fee Number Of Additional Entry Fee Number Of Additional Entry Fee Percentage of voting interests acquired Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Number of entry fee Number Of Entry Fee Number Of Entry Fee Payments for management agreement termination fee Payments (Proceeds) For Management Agreement Termination Fee Payments (Proceeds) For Management Agreement Termination Fee Number of communities leased Number of Communities Leased Number of Communities Leased Number of communities, acquired, currently leased Number of Communities, Acquired, Currently Leased Number of Communities, Acquired, Currently Leased Number of lease communities transferred to successor operator Number of Leases Communities Transferred To Successor Operator Number of Leases Communities Transferred To Successor Operator Proceeds from issuance of debt Proceeds from Issuance of Debt Number of continuing communities Number of Continuing Communities Number of Continuing Communities Term of number of extensions Lessee, Operating Lease, Number Of Extensions, Term Lessee, Operating Lease, Number Of Extensions, Term Annual escalator rate Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Annual Escalator Rate Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Annual Escalator Rate Capital expenditures Operating Lease, Capital Expenditures, Availability Operating Lease, Capital Expenditures, Availability Initial lease rate Operating Lease, Initial Lease Rate Operating Lease, Initial Lease Rate Number of entry fee sales Number of Entry Fee, Sales Number of Entry Fee, Sales Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] CCRC Venture Opco Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary, Operating Company [Member] Variable Interest Entity (VIE) which is not included in the consolidated financial statements of the entity because the entity does not have a controlling financial interest (not the primary beneficiary). Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Mortgage Debt Due 2018 Mortgage Debt Due 2018 [Member] Mortgage Debt Due 2018 [Member] Mortgage Debt Due January 2019 Mortgage Debt Due January 2019 [Member] Mortgage Debt Due January 2019 [Member] Number of loan portfolios Number Of Loan Portfolios Number Of Loan Portfolios Repayment of debt Repayments of Debt Payments of debt restructuring Payments of Debt Restructuring Costs Summary of changes in the carrying amount of goodwill Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets Schedule of Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Number of Shares Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward] Beginning balance (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Vested (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Cancelled or forfeited (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Ending balance (in shares) Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract] Beginning balance (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Granted (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Vested (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Cancelled/forfeited (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Ending balance (in dollars per share) Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Cash Flows from Operating Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Debt modification and extinguishment costs Depreciation and amortization, net Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Equity in (earnings) loss of unconsolidated ventures Distributions from unconsolidated ventures from cumulative share of net earnings Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Distribution Amortization of entrance fees Recognition of Contract Liability Recognition of Contract Liability Proceeds from deferred entrance fee revenue Proceeds From Deferred Entrance Fee Revenue Proceeds From Deferred Entrance Fee Revenue Deferred income tax (benefit) provision Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Operating lease expense adjustment Operating Lease Expense Adjustments Operating Lease Expense Adjustments Change in fair value of derivatives Loss (gain) on sale of assets, net Loss (gain) on facility lease termination and modification, net Gain (Loss) On Termination Of Lease, Net Gain (Loss) On Termination Of Lease, Net Non-cash stock-based compensation expense Share-based Payment Arrangement, Expense Non-cash interest expense on financing lease obligations Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs Non-cash management contract termination gain Other Other Noncash Income (Expense) Changes in operating assets and liabilities: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Accounts receivable, net Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable Prepaid expenses and other assets, net Prepaid insurance premiums financed with notes payable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Refundable fees and deferred revenue Increase (Decrease) in Refundable Fees and Contract with Customers, Liability Increase (Decrease) in Refundable Fees and Contract with Customers, Liability Operating lease assets and liabilities for lessor capital expenditure reimbursements Payments (Proceeds) For Lessor Capital Expenditure Impairment Payments (Proceeds) For Lessor Capital Expenditure Impairment Operating lease assets and liabilities for lease termination Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities Cash Flows from Investing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Change in lease security deposits and lease acquisition deposits, net Increase (Decrease) in Other Deposits Purchase of marketable securities Payments to Acquire Marketable Securities Sale and maturities of marketable securities Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of Marketable Securities Capital expenditures, net of related payables Acquisition of assets, net of related payables and cash received Payments to Acquire Other Property, Plant, and Equipment Investment in unconsolidated ventures Distributions received from unconsolidated ventures Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Distribution, Return of Capital Proceeds from sale of assets, net Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment Property insurance proceeds Proceeds from Insurance Settlement, Investing Activities Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities Cash Flows from Financing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Proceeds from debt Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Repayment of debt and financing lease obligations Repayment of Long-term Debt, Long-term Lease Obligation, and Capital Security Proceeds from line of credit Proceeds from Long-term Lines of Credit Repayment of line of credit Repayments of Long-term Lines of Credit Purchase of treasury stock, net of related payables Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Payment of financing costs, net of related payables Payments of Debt Issuance Costs Proceeds from refundable entrance fees, net of refunds Customer Refundable Fees, Proceeds (Refunds) Customer Refundable Fees, Proceeds (Refunds) Payments for lease termination Payments of employee taxes for withheld shares Payment, Tax Withholding, Share-based Payment Arrangement Other Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease), Including Exchange Rate Effect Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at beginning of period Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at end of period Long term mortgage debt Revenue Revenue from Contract with Customer [Text Block] Number of reportable segments Number of Reportable Segments Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Buildings and improvements Building and Building Improvements [Member] Furniture and equipment Furniture and Fixtures [Member] Resident lease intangibles Resident lease intangibles [Member] Long-lived, depreciable assets including all assets held by a lessee under a capital lease and any addition or improvement to assets held under lease arrangement (including addition or improvement to asset held by lessee under operating lease arrangement). Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Estimated Useful Life Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Text Block] Deferred income tax assets: Components of Deferred Tax Assets [Abstract] Financing lease obligations Deferred Tax Assets, Finance Lease Obligations The tax effect as of the balance sheet date of the amount of the estimated future tax deductions arising from differences in accounting under GAAP and tax returns for assets and liabilities established under GAAP pertaining to capital lease obligations. Operating lease obligations Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Lease Obligations Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Lease Obligations Operating loss carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards Deferred lease liability Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Deferred Rent Accrued expenses Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Accrued Liabilities Tax credits Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards Capital loss carryforward Deferred Tax Assets, Capital Loss Carryforwards Intangible assets Deferred Tax Assets, Goodwill and Intangible Assets Other Deferred Tax Assets, Other Total gross deferred income tax asset Valuation allowance Net deferred income tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance Deferred income tax liabilities: Components of Deferred Tax Liabilities [Abstract] Property, plant and equipment Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment Operating lease right-of-use assets Deferred Tax Liabilities, Operating Lease Right-Of-Use Assets Deferred Tax Liabilities, Operating Lease Right-Of-Use Assets Operating lease right-of-use assets Deferred Tax Liabilities, Investment in Noncontrolled Affiliates Total gross deferred income tax liability Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross Net deferred tax liability Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table] Tax Credit Carryforward [Axis] Tax Credit Carryforward [Axis] Tax Credit Carryforward, Name [Domain] Tax Credit Carryforward, Name [Domain] Capital loss carryforward Capital Loss Carryforward [Member] Federal Domestic Tax Authority [Member] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items] Statutory income tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent Net operating loss carryforwards Operating Loss Carryforwards Operating loss carryforwards, indefinite lived Operating Loss Carryforwards, Indefinite Lived Operating Loss Carryforwards, Indefinite Lived Tax credit carryforward Tax Credit Carryforward, Amount Income tax adjustment Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations, Adjustment of Deferred Tax (Asset) Liability Rate change - decrease in valuation allowance Net operating loss carryforwards valuation allowance Operating Loss Carryforwards, Valuation Allowance Gross unrecognized tax benefits Income Tax Reconciliation, Tax Contingencies, Unrecognized Tax Benefits The sum of the differences between total income tax expense or benefit as reported in the Income Statement and the expected income tax expense or benefit computed by applying the domestic federal statutory income tax rates to pretax income from continuing operations attributable to changes in all income tax contingencies, whether recorded or adjusted, during the period. Penalties and interest accrued Income Tax Examination, Penalties and Interest Accrued Unrecognized tax benefits [Roll Forward] Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward] Balance at January 1, Unrecognized Tax Benefits Additions for tax positions related to the current year Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions Reductions for tax positions related to prior years Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Balance at December 31, Accrued Expenses Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Disclosure [Text Block] Class of Treasury Stock [Table] Class of Treasury Stock [Table] Share Repurchase Program [Axis] Share Repurchase Program [Axis] Share Repurchase Program [Domain] Share Repurchase Program [Domain] 2016 Repurchase Program 2016 Repurchase Program [Member] 2016 Repurchase Program [Member] Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items] Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items] Authorized share repurchased program amount Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount Purchase of treasury stock (in shares) Treasury stock repurchased (in dollars per share) Treasury Stock Acquired, Average Cost Per Share Purchase of treasury stock Amount available under the share repurchase program Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount Schedule of Derivative Assets at Fair Value Schedule of Derivative Assets at Fair Value [Table Text Block] Fair Value Measurements, Nonrecurring Fair Value Measurements, Nonrecurring [Table Text Block] Tax benefit at U.S. statutory rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Amount State taxes, net of federal income tax Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Amount Uncertain tax positions Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Amount Goodwill impairment Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Impairment Losses, Amount Impact of the Tax Act Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Enacted Tax Rate, Amount Stock compensation Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Share-based Payment Arrangement, Amount Tax credits Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Credit, Amount Meals and entertainment Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Meals and Entertainment, Amount Other Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Reconciling Items, Amount Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Operating segments Operating Segments [Member] Corporate and Management Services Management Services [Member] The Company's management services segment includes communities owned by others and operated by the company pursuant to management agreements. Under the management agreements for these communities, the company receives management fees as well as reimbursed expenses, which represent the reimbursement of certain expenses it incurs on behalf of the owners. Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Revenue Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax Segment Operating Income Gross Profit General and administrative (including non-cash stock-based compensation expense) Facility operating lease expense Depreciation and amortization Loss (gain) on facility lease termination and modification, net Income (loss) from operations Total interest expense Interest Expense Total capital expenditures for property, plant and equipment, and leasehold intangibles Property, Plant and Equipment, Additions Assets Schedule of segment reporting infomration Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Statement of Operations Information Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Income Statement [Abstract] Resident fee revenue Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Revenue Facility operating expense Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Cost of Sales Net income (loss) Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Net Income (Loss) Balance Sheet Information Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information [Abstract] Current assets Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Assets Noncurrent assets Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Noncurrent Assets Current liabilities Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Liabilities Noncurrent liabilities Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Noncurrent Liabilities Acquisitions, Dispositions and Other Significant Transactions Mergers, Acquisitions and Dispositions Disclosures [Text Block] Stock-Based Compensation Share-based Payment Arrangement [Text Block] Land Land [Member] Resident and leasehold operating intangibles Resident and leasehold operating intangibles [Member] Long-lived, depreciable assets including all assets held by a lessee under a capital lease and any addition or improvement to assets held under lease arrangement (including addition or improvement to asset held by lessee under operating lease arrangement). Construction in progress Construction in Progress [Member] Assets under financing leases and leasehold improvements Assets Under Financing Leases and Leasehold Intangibles [Member] Assets Under Financing Leases and Leasehold Intangibles [Member] Property, plant and equipment and leasehold intangibles gross Property, Plant, And Equipment And Finance Lease Right-Of-Use Asset, Before Accumulated Depreciation And Amortization Property, Plant, And Equipment And Finance Lease Right-Of-Use Asset, Before Accumulated Depreciation And Amortization Accumulated depreciation and amortization Property, Plant, And Equipment And Finance Lease Right-Of-Use Asset, Accumulated Depreciation And Amortization Property, Plant, And Equipment And Finance Lease Right-Of-Use Asset, Accumulated Depreciation And Amortization Property, plant and equipment and leasehold intangibles, net Finance lease, right-of-use asset Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset Depreciation and amortization expense for plant and equipment and leasehold intangibles Depreciation and amortization expense for plant and equipment and leasehold intangibles The current period expense charged against earnings on long-lived, physical assets not used in production, to allocate or recognize the cost of such assets over their useful lives; or to record the reduction in book value of an intangible asset over the benefit period of such asset. Goodwill (Note 8) Property, plant and equipment and leasehold intangibles, net (Note 7) Operating lease right-of-use assets (Note 11) Investment in unconsolidated ventures (Note 6) Other intangible assets, net (Note 8) Asset Impairment Charges, Other Intangible Assets, Net Asset Impairment Charges, Other Intangible Assets, Net Asset Impairment Charges, Non-Cash Charge Assets held for sale (Note 4) Other intangible assets, net (Note 8) Other Asset Impairment Charges Goodwill and asset impairment Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Rate change - decrease in net deferred tax assets Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Change In Tax Rate, Increase (Decrease) In Deferred Tax Asset, Net Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Change In Tax Rate, Increase (Decrease) In Deferred Tax Asset, Net Rate change - decrease in valuation allowance Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Change In Tax Rate, Increase (Decrease) In Valuation Allowance Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Change In Tax Rate, Increase (Decrease) In Valuation Allowance Impact on net operating loss usage Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Change In Tax Rate, Increase (Decrease) In Net Operating Loss Carryforwards Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Change In Tax Rate, Increase (Decrease) In Net Operating Loss Carryforwards Reduction of deferred tax asset - AMT credits Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Change In Tax Rate, Increase (Decrease) In Deferred Tax Asset, Alternative Minimum Tax Credit Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Change In Tax Rate, Increase (Decrease) In Deferred Tax Asset, Alternative Minimum Tax Credit Total impact of the Tax Act on the Company's deferred taxes position Realization of AMT credits Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Change In Tax Rate, Realization Of Alternative Minimum Tax Credits Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Change In Tax Rate, Realization Of Alternative Minimum Tax Credits Total Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, Incomplete Accounting, Provisional Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Disaggregation of Revenue Disaggregation of Revenue [Table Text Block] Operating Lease, Liability Total equity Total liabilities and equity Quarterly results of operations Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Property, plant and equipment Schedule of Disposal Groups Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table Text Block] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Schedule of Investment in Unconsolidated Joint Ventures [Line Items] Schedule of Investment in Unconsolidated Joint Ventures [Line Items] Equity method liability Equity Method Liability Disclosure of the equity method liability balance recorded due to distributions received in excess of the Company's carrying value of its equity method investment Carrying amount in unconsolidated real estate and other joint ventures Real Estate Investments, Unconsolidated Real Estate and Other Joint Ventures Cover page. Document Type Document Type Document Annual Report Document Annual Report Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Transition Report Document Transition Report Entity File Number Entity File Number Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code Entity Tax Identification Number Entity Tax Identification Number Entity Address, Address Line One Entity Address, Address Line One Entity Address, Address Line Two Entity Address, Address Line Two Entity Address, City or Town Entity Address, City or Town Entity Address, State or Province Entity Address, State or Province Entity Address, Postal Zip Code Entity Address, Postal Zip Code City Area Code City Area Code Local Phone Number Local Phone Number Title of 12(b) Security Title of 12(b) Security Trading Symbol Trading Symbol Security Exchange Name Security Exchange Name Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Interactive Data Current Entity Interactive Data Current Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Small Business Entity Small Business Entity Emerging Growth Company Entity Emerging Growth Company Entity Shell Company Entity Shell Company Entity Public Float Entity Public Float Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Restrictions on Cash and Cash Equivalents [Table] Restrictions on Cash and Cash Equivalents [Table] Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents [Axis] Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents [Axis] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Domain] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Domain] Real estate tax and property insurance escrows Real estate taxes in escrow [Member] The amount of tax based on the assessed value of real estate by the local government. The tax is usually based on the value of property (including the land). Replacement reserve escrows Replacement reserve and other [Member] The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalent items which are restricted as to withdrawal or usage for replacement reserves and other purposes. Resident deposits Tenant security deposits [Member] The amount of an asset, typically cash, provided to a counterparty to provide certain assurance of performance by the entity pursuant to the terms of a written or oral agreement, such as a lease. Other Other Restricted Cash [Member] The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalent items which are restricted as to withdrawal or usage for various purposes. Insurance deposits Insurance reserves [Member] The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalent items which are restricted as to withdrawal or usage for insurance reserves. CCRCs escrows Entrance fees [Member] The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalent items which are restricted as to withdrawal or usage for entrance fee purposes. Debt service reserve Debt service and other deposits [Member] The non-current carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalent items which are restricted as to withdrawal or usage for debt service and other purposes. Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Items [Line Items] Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Items [Line Items] Cash and escrow deposits - restricted, total Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents