v2.4.0.8

SENIOR NOTES PAYABLE AND OTHER DEBT (Details 5) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified | 1 Months Ended |
--- | --- | ---
Jan. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2012 community
Debt Disclosure [Abstract] |  |
Number of communities under capital lease |  | 8
Acquisition of facilities on capital lease | $ 145.0 |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Represents the number of communities under the capital lease agreements. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | vtr_NumberOfCommunitiesUnderCapitalLease
Namespace Prefix: | vtr_
Data Type: | xbrli:integerItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Payments to Acquire Properties on Capital Lease + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | vtr_PaymentsToAcquirePropertiesOnCapitalLease
Namespace Prefix: | vtr_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration