XML 59 R49.htm IDEA: XBRL DOCUMENT
v3.19.1

Debt (Narrative) (Details) | 3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended
--- | --- | ---
Mar. 31, 2019 USD ($) properties shares number_of_loans $ / shares | Mar. 31, 2018 USD ($) shares | Dec. 31, 2018 USD ($)
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount | $ (2,497,000) |  |
Derivative, Fair Value, Net | 339,000 |  | $ 1,297,000
Repayments of Convertible Debt | 0 | $ 29,958,000 |
Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified During Next 12 Months, Net | $ 881,000 |  |
Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Ratio | 14.47 |  |
Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Price | $ / shares | $ 69.11 |  |
Debt Instrument, Convertible, If-converted Value in Excess of Principal | $ 16,390,000 |  |
Debt Instrument, Convertible, Number of Equity Instruments | shares | 1,736,340 |  |
Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Conversion of Debt Securities | shares | 223,513 | 0 |
Convertible Debt | $ 118,802,000 |  | $ 118,609,000
Payments of Debt Issuance Costs | 67,000 | $ 0 |
Gain (Loss) on Extinguishment of Debt | $ 0 | $ (738,000) |
Debt Instrument, Variable Rate Basis, Minimum | 24945.00% |  | 25026.90%
Portion of Debt Instrument Not Fixed with Interest Rate Derivative | $ 100,000,000 |  |
Line of Credit Facility, Unused Capacity, Commitment Fee Percentage | 2000.00% |  |
Credit Facility, Current Revolving Borrowing Capacity |  |  | $ 550,000,000
Number of Real Estate Properties | properties | 220 |  |
Debt Instrument, Name, Q3 2014 HUD Mortgages [Member] |  |  |
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount | $ (1,299,000) |  | (1,320,000)
$250M Term Loan [Member] |  |  |
Term Loans, Outstanding Balance | 250,000,000 |  |
$300M Term Loan [Member] |  |  |
Term Loans, Outstanding Balance | $ 300,000,000 |  |
Bank Term Loans [Member] |  |  |
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate | 12700.00% |  |
Debt Instrument, Name, Convertible Senior Notes [Member] |  |  |
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount | $ (1,199,000) |  | $ (1,391,000)
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | 3.25% |  |
Convertible Debt Instrument, Conversion Ratio, Principal Amount, Basis | $ 1,000 |  |
At Inception [Member] |  |  |
Proceeds from convertible senior notes | $ 200,000,000 |  |
Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Ratio | 13.93 |  |
Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Price | $ / shares | $ 71.81 |  |
Debt Instrument, Convertible, Number of Equity Instruments | shares | 2,785,200 |  |
Debt Instrument, Name, Revolving Credit Facility [Member] |  |  |
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate | 11500.00% |  |
Unused balance of the unsecured revolving credit facility | $ 461,000,000 |  |
FNMA Berkadia Note [Member] |  |  |
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Face Amount of Mortgages | $ 17,874,000 |  |
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | 4.60% |  |
Debt Instrument, Name, Fannie Mae Term Loans [Member] |  |  |
Debt Instrument, Term | 10 years |  |
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Face Amount of Mortgages | $ 78,084,000 |  |
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | 3.79% |  |
Number of Real Estate Properties | 13 |  |
Net Book Value of Real Estate Pledged Toward Mortgage | $ 137,416,000 |  |
Debt Instrument, Name, HUD Mortgages [Member] |  |  |
Number of Real Estate Properties | properties | 10 |  |
Net Book Value of Real Estate Pledged Toward Mortgage | $ 50,437,000 |  |
Debt Instrument, Name, HUD Mortgages [Member] | Minimum [Member] |  |  |
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Interest Rate | 4.30% |  |
Debt Instrument, Name, HUD Mortgages [Member] | Maximum [Member] |  |  |
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Interest Rate |  |  | 4.40%
Debt Instrument, HUD Mortgages, 2049 Maturity [Member] |  |  |
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Number of Loans | number_of_loans | 9 |  |
Debt Instrument, HUD Mortgages, 2047 Maturity [Member] |  |  |
SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Number of Loans | number_of_loans | 1 |  |
Bickford Senior Living [Member] |  |  |
Number of Real Estate Properties | properties | 50 |  |
Middletown, OH [Member] | Bickford Senior Living [Member] |  |  |
Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Noncash Financial or Equity Instrument Consideration, Rate | 2.90% |  |
Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Debt Assumed | $ 8,652,000 |  |
Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Value of Liabilities Assumed | 7,353,000 |  |
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] |  |  |
Cash Flow Hedge Derivative Instrument Assets at Fair Value | 559,000 |  | $ 1,297,000
Interest Rate Swap, Date Entered, March 2019 [Member] |  |  |
Derivative, Notional Amount | $ 200,000,000 |  |

X
- Definition Aggregate notional amount specified by the derivative(s). Expressed as an absolute value. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Article 12 -Section 13 -Sentence Column B + Details
Name: | invest_DerivativeNotionalAmount
Namespace Prefix: | invest_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Convertible Debt Instrument, Conversion Ratio, Principal Amount, Basis + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | nhi_ConvertibleDebtInstrumentConversionRatioPrincipalAmountBasis
Namespace Prefix: | nhi_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount of current revolving borrowing capacity under the credit facility considering any current restrictions on the amount that could be borrowed (for example, borrowings may be limited by the amount of current assets), but without considering any amounts currently outstanding under the facility. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | nhi_CreditFacilityCurrentRevolvingBorrowingCapacity
Namespace Prefix: | nhi_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition This item represents the contractual minimum for a variable rate basis such as LIBOR for a debt instrument. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | nhi_DebtInstrumentVariableRateBasisMinimum
Namespace Prefix: | nhi_
Data Type: | num:percentItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition This item represents the net book value of real estate pledged toward mortgage. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | nhi_NetBookValueofRealEstatePledgedTowardMortgage
Namespace Prefix: | nhi_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition This item relates to the portion of a debt instrument that is not fixed through a derivative interest rate swap. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | nhi_PortionofDebtInstrumentNotFixedwithInterestRateDerivative
Namespace Prefix: | nhi_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition This concept represents the outstanding balance of term loans. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | nhi_TermLoansOutstandingBalance
Namespace Prefix: | nhi_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount of contractual principal due at origination of mortgage loan within investment in mortgage loan on real estate by entity with substantial portion of business acquiring and holding investment real estate or interest in real estate. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 12 -Paragraph Column F -Subsection 29 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 948 -SubTopic 310 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.12-29(Column F)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6589523&loc=d3e617274-123014 + Details
Name: | srt_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateFaceAmountOfMortgages
Namespace Prefix: | srt_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Interest rate of mortgage loan within investment in mortgage loan on real estate by entity with substantial portion of business acquiring and holding investment real estate or interest in real estate. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 12 -Paragraph Column B -Subsection 29 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 948 -SubTopic 310 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.12-29(Column B)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6589523&loc=d3e617274-123014 + Details
Name: | srt_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateInterestRate
Namespace Prefix: | srt_
Data Type: | num:percentItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Number of mortgage loans within investment in mortgage loan on real estate by entity with substantial portion of business acquiring and holding investment real estate or interest in real estate. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 12 -Footnote 3 -Subsection 29 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 948 -SubTopic 310 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.12-29(Footnote 3)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6589523&loc=d3e617274-123014 + Details
Name: | srt_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateNumberOfLoans
Namespace Prefix: | srt_
Data Type: | xbrli:integerItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Fair value of all asset derivatives designated as cash flow hedging instruments. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 815 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 4B -Subparagraph (c)(1) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=109980867&loc=SL5624163-113959 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_CashFlowHedgeDerivativeInstrumentAssetsAtFairValue
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Including the current and noncurrent portions, carrying amount of debt identified as being convertible into another form of financial instrument (typically the entity's common stock) as of the balance sheet date, which originally required full repayment more than twelve months after issuance or greater than the normal operating cycle of the company. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 944 -SubTopic 210 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.7-03(a)(16)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6879938&loc=d3e572229-122910 Reference 2: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02(22)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 Reference 3: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 942 -SubTopic 210 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.9-03(16)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6876686&loc=d3e534808-122878 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_ConvertibleDebt
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Percentage points added to the reference rate to compute the variable rate on the debt instrument. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableRate1
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | num:percentItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The price per share of the conversion feature embedded in the debt instrument. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 5 -Subparagraph (b) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=109500613&loc=SL6031898-161870 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentConvertibleConversionPrice1
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | num:perShareItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Ratio applied to the conversion of debt instrument into equity with equity shares divided by debt principal amount. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 505 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 7 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=109259400&loc=d3e21521-112644 Reference 2: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 505 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 6 -Subparagraph (b) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=109259400&loc=d3e21506-112644 Reference 3: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.22(a)(5)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 Reference 4: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 505 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 3 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=109259400&loc=d3e21475-112644 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentConvertibleConversionRatio1
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:pureItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The amount by which the convertible debt's if-converted value exceeds its principle amount at the balance sheet date, regardless of whether the instrument is currently convertible. This element applies to public companies only. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 470 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 5 -Subparagraph (c) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=109500613&loc=SL6031898-161870 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentConvertibleIfConvertedValueInExcessOfPrincipal
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The number of equity instruments that the holder of the debt instrument would receive if the debt was converted to equity. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 505 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 3 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=109259400&loc=d3e21475-112644 Reference 2: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 505 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 7 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=109259400&loc=d3e21521-112644 Reference 3: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 505 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 6 -Subparagraph (b) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=109259400&loc=d3e21506-112644 Reference 4: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.22(a)(5)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentConvertibleNumberOfEquityInstruments
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:integerItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Contractual interest rate for funds borrowed, under the debt agreement. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.22(a)(1)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | num:percentItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Period of time between issuance and maturity of debt instrument, in PnYnMnDTnHnMnS' format, for example, 'P1Y5M13D' represents the reported fact of one year, five months, and thirteen days. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTerm
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:durationItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount, after accumulated amortization, of debt discount. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 835 -SubTopic 30 -Section 45 -Paragraph 1A -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=114775744&loc=d3e28541-108399 Reference 2: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 835 -SubTopic 30 -Section 55 -Paragraph 8 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=114775985&loc=d3e28878-108400 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentUnamortizedDiscount
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Fair value of the assets less the liabilities of a derivative or group of derivatives. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 825 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 10 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=109250915&loc=d3e13433-108611 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DerivativeFairValueOfDerivativeNet
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Difference between the fair value of payments made and the carrying amount of debt which is extinguished prior to maturity. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 470 -SubTopic 50 -Section 40 -Paragraph 4 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=114001942&loc=d3e12355-112629 Reference 2: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 470 -SubTopic 50 -Section 40 -Paragraph 2 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=114001942&loc=d3e12317-112629 Reference 3: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 230 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 28 -Subparagraph (b) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=109223946&loc=d3e3602-108585 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_GainsLossesOnExtinguishmentOfDebt
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Additional shares included in the calculation of diluted EPS as a result of the potentially dilutive effect of convertible debt securities using the if-converted method. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 260 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 40 -Subparagraph (c) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=109260490&loc=d3e1930-109256 Reference 2: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 260 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6371337&loc=d3e3550-109257 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToConversionOfDebtSecurities
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:sharesItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The estimated net amount of unrealized gains or losses on interest rate cash flow hedges as of the balance sheet date expected to be reclassified to earnings within the next twelve months. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 815 -SubTopic 30 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (c) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=112277219&loc=d3e80748-113994 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_InterestRateCashFlowHedgeGainLossToBeReclassifiedDuringNext12MonthsNet
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount of borrowing capacity currently available under the credit facility (current borrowing capacity less the amount of borrowings outstanding). + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.19(b),22(b)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityRemainingBorrowingCapacity
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition The fee, expressed as a percentage of the line of credit facility, for available but unused credit capacity under the credit facility. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityUnusedCapacityCommitmentFeePercentage
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | num:percentItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The amount of debt that an Entity assumes in acquiring a business or in consideration for an asset received in a noncash (or part noncash) acquisition. Noncash is defined as transactions during a period that affect recognized assets or liabilities but that do not result in cash receipts or cash payments in the period. "Part noncash" refers to that portion of the transaction not resulting in cash receipts or cash payments in the period. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 230 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 3 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=98513485&loc=d3e4304-108586 Reference 2: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 230 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 4 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=98513485&loc=d3e4313-108586 Reference 3: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 230 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 5 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=98513485&loc=d3e4332-108586 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_NoncashOrPartNoncashAcquisitionDebtAssumed1
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Dividend or interest rate associated with the financial or equity instrument issued as noncash or part noncash consideration for a business or asset acquired. Noncash are transactions that affect recognized assets or liabilities but that do not result in cash receipts or cash payments. Part noncash refers to that portion of the transaction not resulting in cash receipts or cash payments. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 230 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 4 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=98513485&loc=d3e4313-108586 Reference 2: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 230 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 3 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=98513485&loc=d3e4304-108586 Reference 3: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 230 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 5 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=98513485&loc=d3e4332-108586 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_NoncashOrPartNoncashAcquisitionNoncashFinancialOrEquityInstrumentConsiderationRate
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | num:percentItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The total amount of [all] liabilities that an Entity assumes in acquiring a business or in consideration for an asset received in a noncash (or part noncash) acquisition. Noncash is defined as transactions during a period that affect recognized assets or liabilities but that do not result in cash receipts or cash payments in the period. "Part noncash" refers to that portion of the transaction not resulting in cash receipts or cash payments in the period. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 230 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 4 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=98513485&loc=d3e4313-108586 Reference 2: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 230 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 3 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=98513485&loc=d3e4304-108586 Reference 3: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 230 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 5 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=98513485&loc=d3e4332-108586 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_NoncashOrPartNoncashAcquisitionValueOfLiabilitiesAssumed1
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The number of real estate properties owned as of the balance sheet date. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | us-gaap_NumberOfRealEstateProperties
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:integerItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition The cash outflow paid to third parties in connection with debt origination, which will be amortized over the remaining maturity period of the associated long-term debt. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 230 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 15 -Subparagraph (e) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=109223946&loc=d3e3291-108585 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_PaymentsOfDebtIssuanceCosts
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The cash inflow from the issuance of a long-term debt instrument which can be exchanged for a specified amount of another security, typically the entity's common stock, at the option of the issuer or the holder. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 230 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 14 -Subparagraph (b) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=109223946&loc=d3e3255-108585 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_ProceedsFromConvertibleDebt
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The cash outflow from the repayment of a long-term debt instrument which can be exchanged for a specified amount of another security, typically the entity's common stock, at the option of the issuer or the holder. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 230 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 15 -Subparagraph (b) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=109223946&loc=d3e3291-108585 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_RepaymentsOfConvertibleDebt
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis=nhi_DebtInstrumentNameQ32014HUDMortgagesMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis=nhi_A250MTermLoanMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis=nhi_A300MTermLoanMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis=nhi_BankTermLoansMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis=nhi_DebtInstrumentNameConvertibleSeniorNotesMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis=nhi_AtInceptionMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis=nhi_DebtInstrumentNameRevolvingCreditFacilityMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis=nhi_FNMABerkadiaNoteMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis=nhi_DebtInstrumentNameFannieMaeTermLoansMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis=nhi_DebtInstrumentNameHUDMortgagesMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | srt_RangeAxis=srt_MinimumMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | srt_RangeAxis=srt_MaximumMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis=nhi_DebtInstrumentHUDMortgages2049MaturityMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis=nhi_DebtInstrumentHUDMortgages2047MaturityMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | srt_MajorCustomersAxis=nhi_BickfordSeniorLivingMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | nhi_PropertyLocationAxis=nhi_MiddletownOHMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis=us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis=nhi_InterestRateSwapDateEnteredMarch2019Member
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |