Consolidated Statements of Equity (Parenthetical) (USD $) | 9 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended |
|---|---|---|
Sep. 30, 2011 | Dec. 31, 2010 | |
| Dividends to common stockholders, per share | $ 1.725 | $ 2.14 |
Total Ventas Stockholders' Equity | ||
| Dividends to common stockholders, per share | $ 1.725 | $ 2.14 |
Retained Earnings (Deficit) | ||
| Dividends to common stockholders, per share | $ 1.725 | $ 2.14 |