v2.4.0.6

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (Parenthetical) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
Net (loss) income attributable to noncontrolling interest, tax	$ 0	$ 2,271	$ 1,740

X

- Details

Name:	us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type:	na
Period Type:	duration

X

- Definition

Tax on net income loss attributable to noncontrolling interest.

+ References

No definition available.

+ Details

Name:	vtr_TaxOnNetIncomeLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
Namespace Prefix:	vtr_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	duration