Note 7 - Investments in Marketable Securities (Details) - Available for Sale Marketable Equity Securities (NHI Common Stock [Member], USD $) In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
NHI Common Stock [Member]
Note 7 - Investments in Marketable Securities (Details) - Available for Sale Marketable Equity Securities [Line Items]
NHI Common Stock (in Shares)	1,630,642	1,630,642
NHI Common Stock	$ 24,734	$ 24,734
NHI Common Stock	$ 114,080	$ 91,479

Balance held at close of period in number of shares.

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef

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