XML 71 R96.htm IDEA: XBRL DOCUMENT v2.4.1.9
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation (Details) (USD $)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2013
Dec. 31, 2012
Dec. 31, 2011
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Accumulated Depreciation $ 3,020,908,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation $ 2,386,658,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation $ 1,555,055,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation $ 1,194,476,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
Assets Held-for-sale [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 77,355,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 82,756,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= us-gaap_AssetsHeldForSaleMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 1,093,737,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 7,393,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 323,818,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= us-gaap_AssetsHeldForSaleMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= us-gaap_AssetsHeldForSaleMember
     
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Akron Oh Two [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 20,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_AkronOhTwoMember
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_AkronOhTwoMember
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= us-gaap_AssetsHeldForSaleMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_AkronOhTwoMember
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= us-gaap_AssetsHeldForSaleMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2009      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2008      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Amelia Island, FL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 24,310,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_AmeliaIslandFlMember
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Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2005      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Austin Tx One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 9,658,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 730,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 18,970,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_AustinTxOneMember
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,750,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_AustinTxOneMember
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Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_AustinTxOneMember
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Baytown, TX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 9,059,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,150,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,360,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2002      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Baytown Tx One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 11,110,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,987,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2009      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2008      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Bellevue, WI [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,740,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 18,260,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,473,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2004      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Bellaire, TX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 4,551,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 46,105,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2005      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Bellaire Tx One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,972,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 33,445,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2005      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Bellevue, NE [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 4,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 109,719,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 101,627,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_BellevueNeMember
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2008      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2010      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Bridgeton, MO [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 30,221,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2011      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Corpus Christi Tx Two [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2005      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1985      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | De Forest Wi [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,862,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Denton, TX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,407,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2005      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Denver, CO [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 2,530,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,514,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2005      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1986      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Greenfield, WI [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,626,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,337,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Greenville Sc One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 5,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 100,523,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Houston Tx Three [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 9,656,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 860,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 18,715,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,927,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Kenosha, WI [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,139,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,197,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Mc Henry Il One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 3,012,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 21,862,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2004      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Merrillville, IN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 643,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,084,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1997      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Merrillville In One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 1,080,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,413,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2011      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Mount Airy, NC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 270,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2005      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Myrtle Beach, SC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 6,890,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 41,526,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Neenah, WI [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 630,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,120,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,126,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_NeenahWiMember
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Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1991      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Oshkosh, WI [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 2,178,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,878,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2005      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Oshkosh Wi One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 23,237,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 20,069,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2008      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Overland Park, KS [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,120,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,360,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2005      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1970      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Pasadena, TX [ Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 9,679,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 720,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 24,080,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,862,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2005      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Pawleys Island, SC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,020,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 32,590,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2005      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Saint Simons Island, GA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 6,440,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 50,060,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2008      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | San Antonio Tx [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 10,455,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 560,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,315,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,190,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2002      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Scituate, MA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,740,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,640,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2005      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1976      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Sheboygan, WI [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 80,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,320,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 2,203,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,603,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Spartanburg, SC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,750,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2005      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Stafford, VA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 11,260,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,422,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2008      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Tucson, AZ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 930,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,399,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2005      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1985      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Waukesha, WI [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,910,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,042,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_WaukeshaWiMember
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Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2008      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Webster, TX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 9,210,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 360,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,940,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,128,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2002      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Winston Salem Nc One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 5,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2005      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Houston, TX 3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 10,002,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 630,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,970,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,978,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_HoustonTx3Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_HoustonTx3Member
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2002      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1995      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Murrieta, CA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 8,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 202,412,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2008      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2010      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | San Antonio, TX 4 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 9,637,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 640,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,360,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 11,138,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2004      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Frisco, TX FRS3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 130,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 16,445,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2010      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Grand Blanc, MI GDB [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,843,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2012      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Lapeer, MI LPE [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 220,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,625,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2012      
Assets Held-for-sale [Member] | Melbourne, FL MEL2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 21,319,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2012      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 593,414,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 900,397,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,683,752,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 365,636,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 912,536,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,037,249,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,262,419,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Aboite Twp, IN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,770,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,930,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,601,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,770,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_AboiteTwpInMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 21,531,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,352,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2008      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Agawam, MA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 880,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_AgawamMaMember
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 16,112,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 2,134,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 880,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,246,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 6,259,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2002      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1993      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Akron, OH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_AkronOhMember
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,219,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_AkronOhMember
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 491,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_AkronOhMember
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Carrying Amount of Land 290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_AkronOhMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,710,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_AkronOhMember
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,346,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2005      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1961      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Akron Oh One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_AkronOhOneMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 630,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_AkronOhOneMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,535,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AkronOhOneMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 229,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_AkronOhOneMember
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Carrying Amount of Land 630,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,764,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AkronOhOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,853,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AkronOhOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1915      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Alliance, OH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AllianceOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 270,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AllianceOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,723,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AllianceOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 107,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AllianceOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 270,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AllianceOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,830,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AllianceOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,995,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AllianceOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1982      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Ames, IA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AmesIaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AmesIaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,870,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AmesIaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AmesIaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AmesIaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,870,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AmesIaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,118,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AmesIaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Anderson, SC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AndersonScMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 710,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AndersonScMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AndersonScMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 419,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AndersonScMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 710,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AndersonScMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,709,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AndersonScMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,515,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AndersonScMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1986      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Asheboro, NC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AsheboroNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AsheboroNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,032,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AsheboroNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 165,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AsheboroNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AsheboroNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,197,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AsheboroNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,633,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AsheboroNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Asheville, NC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AshevilleNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 204,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AshevilleNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,489,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AshevilleNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AshevilleNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 204,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AshevilleNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,489,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AshevilleNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,536,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AshevilleNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1999      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Asheville Nc One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AshevilleNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 280,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AshevilleNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 1,955,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AshevilleNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 351,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AshevilleNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 280,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AshevilleNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,306,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AshevilleNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 813,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AshevilleNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1992      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Aurora, CO [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AuroraCoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AuroraCoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,906,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AuroraCoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 7,915,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AuroraCoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AuroraCoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,821,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AuroraCoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,064,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AuroraCoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1988      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Aurora Co One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AuroraCoOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,440,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AuroraCoOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 28,172,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AuroraCoOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AuroraCoOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,440,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AuroraCoOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 28,172,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AuroraCoOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 6,748,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AuroraCoOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Avon, IN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AvonInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,830,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AvonInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,470,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AvonInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AvonInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,830,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AvonInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,470,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AvonInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,904,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AvonInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2004      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Baltic, OH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BalticOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 50,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BalticOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,709,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BalticOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 189,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BalticOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 50,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BalticOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,898,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BalticOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,226,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BalticOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1983      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Bartlesville, OK [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 1,380,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_BartlesvilleOkMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 1,380,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 699,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_BartlesvilleOkMember
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1996      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1995      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Beachwood, OH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,260,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 23,478,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,260,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_BeachwoodOhMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 23,478,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 8,393,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2001      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1990      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Beattyville, KY [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 660,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_BeattyvilleKyMember
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Carrying Amount of Land 100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,560,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,935,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_BeattyvilleKyMember
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2005      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1972      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Bethel Park, PA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 16,007,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_BethelParkPaMember
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_BethelParkPaMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,007,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,525,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Boonville, IN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 190,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,510,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_BoonvilleInMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_BoonvilleInMember
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Carrying Amount of Land 190,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_BoonvilleInMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,510,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_BoonvilleInMember
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,948,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_BoonvilleInMember
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2002      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Bradenton, FL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 252,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,298,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_BradentonFlMember
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_BradentonFlMember
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Carrying Amount of Land 252,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_BradentonFlMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,298,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_BradentonFlMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,685,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_BradentonFlMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1996      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1995      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Braintree, MA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_BraintreeMaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 170,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_BraintreeMaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,157,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_BraintreeMaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_BraintreeMaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 170,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_BraintreeMaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,447,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_BraintreeMaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 8,028,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_BraintreeMaMember
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1997      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1968      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Brandon, MS [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,220,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_BrandonMsMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,241,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_BrandonMsMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_BrandonMsMember
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,220,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_BrandonMsMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,241,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_BrandonMsMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,169,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_BrandonMsMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Bremerton, WA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 390,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_BremertonWaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,210,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_BremertonWaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 144,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_BremertonWaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 390,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_BremertonWaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,354,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_BremertonWaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 487,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BremertonWaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Bremerton Wa One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 830,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_BremertonWaOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,420,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_BremertonWaOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 193,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_BremertonWaOneMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 830,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_BremertonWaOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,613,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_BremertonWaOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_BremertonWaOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1984      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Brick, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_BrickNjMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrickNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 25,247,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrickNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 278,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrickNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrickNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 25,525,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrickNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,268,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrickNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Brick, NJ 1 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrickNjOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,170,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrickNjOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,372,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrickNjOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,102,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrickNjOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,180,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrickNjOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,464,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrickNjOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,916,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrickNjOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Bridgewater, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BridgewaterNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,850,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BridgewaterNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,050,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BridgewaterNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BridgewaterNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,850,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BridgewaterNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,050,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BridgewaterNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,244,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BridgewaterNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2004      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1970      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Bridgewater Nj One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BridgewaterNjOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,730,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BridgewaterNjOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 48,201,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BridgewaterNjOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 941,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BridgewaterNjOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,746,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BridgewaterNjOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 49,125,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BridgewaterNjOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,042,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BridgewaterNjOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Broadview Height Oh [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BroadviewHeightOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 920,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BroadviewHeightOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 12,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BroadviewHeightOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 2,393,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BroadviewHeightOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 920,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BroadviewHeightOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,793,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BroadviewHeightOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,705,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BroadviewHeightOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2001      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1984      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Burlington, NC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlingtonNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 280,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlingtonNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,297,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlingtonNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 707,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlingtonNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 280,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlingtonNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,004,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlingtonNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,545,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlingtonNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Burlington Nc One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlingtonNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 460,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlingtonNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,467,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlingtonNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlingtonNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 460,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlingtonNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,467,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlingtonNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,735,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlingtonNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Byrdstown, TN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ByrdstownTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ByrdstownTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,414,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ByrdstownTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 269,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ByrdstownTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ByrdstownTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,683,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ByrdstownTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,750,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ByrdstownTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2004      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1982      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Canton, MA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CantonMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 820,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CantonMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,201,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CantonMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 263,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CantonMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 820,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CantonMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,464,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CantonMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,515,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CantonMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2002      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1993      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Canton, OH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CantonOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CantonOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,098,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CantonOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CantonOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CantonOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,098,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CantonOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 917,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CantonOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1998      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Cape Coral, FL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CapeCoralFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 530,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CapeCoralFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,281,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CapeCoralFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CapeCoralFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 530,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CapeCoralFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,281,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CapeCoralFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,162,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CapeCoralFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2002      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Cary, NC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CaryNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CaryNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CaryNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 986,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CaryNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CaryNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,336,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CaryNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,184,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CaryNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1998      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Chapel Hill, NC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ChapelHillNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 354,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ChapelHillNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,646,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ChapelHillNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 783,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ChapelHillNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 354,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ChapelHillNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,429,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ChapelHillNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,188,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ChapelHillNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2002      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Chelmsford, MA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ChelmsfordMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,040,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ChelmsfordMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,951,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ChelmsfordMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,499,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ChelmsfordMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,040,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ChelmsfordMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ChelmsfordMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,390,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ChelmsfordMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Chickasha, OK [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ChickashaOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 85,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ChickashaOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 1,395,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ChickashaOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ChickashaOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 85,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ChickashaOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 1,395,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ChickashaOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ChickashaOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1996      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Claremore, OK [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClaremoreOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 155,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClaremoreOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 1,427,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClaremoreOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 6,130,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClaremoreOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 155,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClaremoreOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,557,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClaremoreOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 850,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClaremoreOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1996      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Clarksville, TN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClarksvilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClarksvilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,292,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClarksvilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClarksvilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClarksvilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,292,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClarksvilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 996,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClarksvilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1998      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Cleburne, TX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CleburneTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 520,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CleburneTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,369,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CleburneTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CleburneTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 520,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CleburneTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,369,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CleburneTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,089,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CleburneTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Cleveland, TN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClevelandTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClevelandTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClevelandTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 122,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClevelandTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClevelandTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,122,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClevelandTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,951,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClevelandTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2001      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1987      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Colts Neck, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColtsNeckNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 780,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColtsNeckNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,733,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColtsNeckNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 722,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColtsNeckNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 993,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColtsNeckNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,242,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColtsNeckNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,656,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColtsNeckNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2002      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Columbia, TN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColumbiaTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 341,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColumbiaTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,295,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColumbiaTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColumbiaTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 341,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColumbiaTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,295,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColumbiaTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,005,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColumbiaTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1999      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Columbia Tn One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 590,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,787,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_ColumbiaTnOneMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 590,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_ColumbiaTnOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,787,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColumbiaTnOneMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,588,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_ColumbiaTnOneMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1974      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Columbia, SC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,120,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,860,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColumbiaScMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 5,709,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColumbiaScMember
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,120,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_ColumbiaScMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,569,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_ColumbiaScMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,410,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColumbiaScMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Columbus, IN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 610,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColumbusInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,190,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColumbusInMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_ColumbusInMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 610,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColumbusInMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,190,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColumbusInMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 411,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColumbusInMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Columbus In One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 530,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_ColumbusInOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,710,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_ColumbusInOneMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_ColumbusInOneMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 530,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColumbusInOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,710,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_ColumbusInOneMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,217,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_ColumbusInOneMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2002      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Columbus, OH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 530,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_ColumbusOhMember
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,170,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_ColumbusOhMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 8,255,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColumbusOhMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,070,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_ColumbusOhMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,885,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_ColumbusOhMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,269,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColumbusOhMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2005      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1968      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Columbus Oh One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,010,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_ColumbusOhOneMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,022,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_ColumbusOhOneMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_ColumbusOhOneMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,010,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColumbusOhOneMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,022,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_ColumbusOhOneMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,405,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_ColumbusOhOneMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1983      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Columbus Oh Two [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,010,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_ColumbusOhTwoMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,931,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColumbusOhTwoMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 13,620,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_ColumbusOhTwoMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,860,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColumbusOhTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 17,701,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_ColumbusOhTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,435,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_ColumbusOhTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1978      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Concord, NC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConcordNcMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_ConcordNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,921,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConcordNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 55,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_ConcordNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConcordNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,976,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_ConcordNcMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_ConcordNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Conroe, TX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConroeTxMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 980,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConroeTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,771,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConroeTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConroeTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 980,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConroeTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,771,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConroeTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,049,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConroeTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2009      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2010      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Danville, VA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DanvilleVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 410,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DanvilleVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,954,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DanvilleVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 722,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DanvilleVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 410,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DanvilleVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,676,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DanvilleVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,506,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DanvilleVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Dedham, MA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DedhamMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,360,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DedhamMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,830,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DedhamMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DedhamMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,360,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DedhamMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,830,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DedhamMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,737,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DedhamMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2002      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Defuniak Springs, FL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DefuniakSpringsFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DefuniakSpringsFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DefuniakSpringsFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DefuniakSpringsFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DefuniakSpringsFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DefuniakSpringsFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,456,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DefuniakSpringsFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1980      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Denton, TX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DentonTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,760,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DentonTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,305,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DentonTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DentonTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,760,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DentonTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,305,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DentonTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 774,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DentonTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2011      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Drescher, PA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DrescherPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,060,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DrescherPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 40,236,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DrescherPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 558,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DrescherPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,068,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DrescherPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 40,786,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DrescherPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,169,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DrescherPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Durham, NC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DurhamNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,476,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DurhamNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,659,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DurhamNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 2,196,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DurhamNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,476,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DurhamNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,855,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DurhamNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 9,437,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DurhamNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1997      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | East Norriston, PA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EastNorristonPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EastNorristonPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 28,129,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EastNorristonPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 747,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EastNorristonPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,210,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EastNorristonPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 28,866,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EastNorristonPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,993,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EastNorristonPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1988      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Eden, NC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EdenNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 390,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EdenNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,877,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EdenNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EdenNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 390,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EdenNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,877,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EdenNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,569,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EdenNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Elizabeth City, NC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ElizabethCityNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ElizabethCityNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,760,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ElizabethCityNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 2,011,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ElizabethCityNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ElizabethCityNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,771,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ElizabethCityNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,816,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ElizabethCityNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1998      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Elizabethton, TN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ElizabethtonTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 310,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ElizabethtonTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,604,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ElizabethtonTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 336,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ElizabethtonTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 310,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ElizabethtonTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,940,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ElizabethtonTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,898,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ElizabethtonTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2001      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1980      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Englishtown, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EnglishtownNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 690,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EnglishtownNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 12,520,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EnglishtownNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 715,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EnglishtownNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 764,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EnglishtownNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,161,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EnglishtownNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,447,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EnglishtownNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Erin, TN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ErinTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 440,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ErinTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,060,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ErinTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 134,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ErinTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 440,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ErinTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,194,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ErinTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,004,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ErinTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2001      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1981      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Everett, WA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EverettWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EverettWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,476,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EverettWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EverettWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EverettWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,476,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EverettWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,298,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EverettWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1999      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Fairfield, CA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FairfieldCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,460,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FairfieldCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,040,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FairfieldCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,541,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FairfieldCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,460,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FairfieldCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,581,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FairfieldCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,162,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FairfieldCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2002      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Fall River, MA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FallRiverMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 620,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FallRiverMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,829,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FallRiverMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 4,856,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FallRiverMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 620,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FallRiverMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,685,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FallRiverMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,457,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FallRiverMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1996      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1973      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Fayetteville, NY [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FayettevilleNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 410,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FayettevilleNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,962,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FayettevilleNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FayettevilleNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 410,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FayettevilleNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,462,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FayettevilleNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,545,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FayettevilleNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2001      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Findlay, OH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FindlayOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FindlayOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 1,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FindlayOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FindlayOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FindlayOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 1,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FindlayOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 848,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FindlayOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1997      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Fishers, IN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FishersInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FishersInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FishersInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FishersInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FishersInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FishersInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,907,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FishersInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Florence, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FlorenceNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FlorenceNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,978,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FlorenceNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FlorenceNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FlorenceNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,978,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FlorenceNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,049,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FlorenceNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2002      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Forest City, NC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ForestCityNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 320,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ForestCityNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,497,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ForestCityNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ForestCityNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 320,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ForestCityNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,497,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ForestCityNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,463,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ForestCityNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Fredericksburg, VA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FredericksburgVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FredericksburgVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 20,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FredericksburgVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FredericksburgVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FredericksburgVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 21,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FredericksburgVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,242,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FredericksburgVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2005      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Gastonia, NC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GastoniaNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 470,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GastoniaNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,129,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GastoniaNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GastoniaNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 470,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GastoniaNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,129,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GastoniaNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,934,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GastoniaNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Gastonia Nc One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 310,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_GastoniaNcOneMember
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,096,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_GastoniaNcOneMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 22,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_GastoniaNcOneMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 310,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GastoniaNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,118,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GastoniaNcOneMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,053,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_GastoniaNcOneMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1994      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Gastonia Nc Two [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_GastoniaNcTwoMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_GastoniaNcTwoMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,029,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_GastoniaNcTwoMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 120,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_GastoniaNcTwoMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GastoniaNcTwoMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,149,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_GastoniaNcTwoMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,639,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_GastoniaNcTwoMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Georgetown, TX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_GeorgetownTxMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GeorgetownTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GeorgetownTxMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_GeorgetownTxMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GeorgetownTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GeorgetownTxMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 976,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GeorgetownTxMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1997      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Graceville, FL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_GracevilleFlMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 150,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_GracevilleFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_GracevilleFlMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_GracevilleFlMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 150,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_GracevilleFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_GracevilleFlMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,029,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_GracevilleFlMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1980      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Grand Ledge, MI [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 7,748,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GrandLedgeMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,150,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_GrandLedgeMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 16,286,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GrandLedgeMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 5,119,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GrandLedgeMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,150,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GrandLedgeMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 21,405,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_GrandLedgeMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,986,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GrandLedgeMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Granger, IN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_GrangerInMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,670,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GrangerInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 21,280,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GrangerInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 2,401,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GrangerInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,670,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GrangerInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 23,681,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GrangerInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,536,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GrangerInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Greeneville, TN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenevilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenevilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenevilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 507,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenevilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenevilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,797,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenevilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,629,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenevilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2004      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1979      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Greensboro, NC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreensboroNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreensboroNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,970,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreensboroNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 554,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreensboroNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreensboroNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,524,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreensboroNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,164,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreensboroNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Greensboro Nc One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreensboroNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 560,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreensboroNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,507,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreensboroNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,013,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreensboroNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 560,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreensboroNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,520,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreensboroNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,135,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreensboroNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Greenville, NC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenvilleNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenvilleNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,393,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenvilleNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 168,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenvilleNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenvilleNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,561,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenvilleNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,435,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenvilleNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Greenville Sc One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenvilleScOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 310,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenvilleScOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,750,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenvilleScOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenvilleScOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 310,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenvilleScOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,750,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenvilleScOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,432,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenvilleScOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2004      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Greenwood, IN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenwoodInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenwoodInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 22,770,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenwoodInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 81,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenwoodInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenwoodInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 22,851,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenwoodInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenwoodInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Hamilton, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HamiltonNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 440,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HamiltonNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,469,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HamiltonNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HamiltonNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 440,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HamiltonNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,469,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HamiltonNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,559,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HamiltonNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2001      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Hanover, IN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HanoverInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 210,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HanoverInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HanoverInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HanoverInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 210,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HanoverInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HanoverInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,369,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HanoverInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2004      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Harleysville, PA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HarleysvillePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 960,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HarleysvillePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 11,355,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HarleysvillePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HarleysvillePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 960,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HarleysvillePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 11,355,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HarleysvillePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,696,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HarleysvillePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2008      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Harriman, TN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HarrimanTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 590,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HarrimanTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,060,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HarrimanTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 158,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HarrimanTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 590,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HarrimanTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,218,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HarrimanTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,188,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HarrimanTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2001      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1972      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Hattiesburg, MS [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HattiesburgMsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HattiesburgMsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,518,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HattiesburgMsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 176,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HattiesburgMsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HattiesburgMsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,694,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HattiesburgMsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,643,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HattiesburgMsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Haverford, PA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HaverfordPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,880,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HaverfordPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 33,993,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HaverfordPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 588,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HaverfordPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,883,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HaverfordPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 34,578,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HaverfordPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HaverfordPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Hemet, CA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HemetCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 870,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HemetCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,405,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HemetCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HemetCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 870,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HemetCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,405,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HemetCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 673,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HemetCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Hickory, NC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HickoryNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HickoryNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 987,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HickoryNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 232,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HickoryNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HickoryNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 1,219,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HickoryNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HickoryNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1994      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | High Point, NC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HighPointNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 560,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HighPointNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,443,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HighPointNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 793,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HighPointNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 560,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HighPointNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,236,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HighPointNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,694,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HighPointNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | High Point Nc One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HighPointNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 370,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HighPointNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,185,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HighPointNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 410,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HighPointNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 370,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HighPointNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,595,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HighPointNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 899,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HighPointNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | High Point Nc Two [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HighPointNcTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HighPointNcTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,395,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HighPointNcTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 28,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HighPointNcTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HighPointNcTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,423,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HighPointNcTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,117,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HighPointNcTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1994      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | High Point Nc Three [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HighPointNcThreeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HighPointNcThreeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,143,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HighPointNcThreeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HighPointNcThreeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HighPointNcThreeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,143,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HighPointNcThreeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,339,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HighPointNcThreeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Highlands Ranch, CO [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HighlandsRanchCoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 940,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HighlandsRanchCoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,721,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HighlandsRanchCoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 4,983,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HighlandsRanchCoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 940,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HighlandsRanchCoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,704,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HighlandsRanchCoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,454,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HighlandsRanchCoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2002      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Homestead, FL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HomesteadFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,750,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HomesteadFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 11,750,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HomesteadFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HomesteadFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,750,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HomesteadFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 11,750,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HomesteadFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,801,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HomesteadFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1994      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Houston Tx Two [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HoustonTxTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 5,090,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HoustonTxTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,471,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HoustonTxTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HoustonTxTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 5,090,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HoustonTxTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,471,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HoustonTxTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,592,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HoustonTxTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Howell, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 9,761,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HowellNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,066,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HowellNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 21,577,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HowellNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HowellNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,066,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HowellNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 21,577,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HowellNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,310,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HowellNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Huron, OH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HuronOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 160,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HuronOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,088,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HuronOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,452,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HuronOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 160,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HuronOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HuronOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,815,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HuronOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2005      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1983      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Hutchinson, KS [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HutchinsonKsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HutchinsonKsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,590,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HutchinsonKsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 194,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HutchinsonKsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HutchinsonKsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,784,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HutchinsonKsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,888,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HutchinsonKsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2004      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Indianapolis, IN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_IndianapolisInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 495,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_IndianapolisInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,287,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_IndianapolisInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 22,565,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_IndianapolisInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 495,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_IndianapolisInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 28,852,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_IndianapolisInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 8,017,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_IndianapolisInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1981      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Indianapolis In One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 255,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_IndianapolisInOneMember
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,473,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_IndianapolisInOneMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 12,123,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_IndianapolisInOneMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 255,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_IndianapolisInOneMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,596,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_IndianapolisInOneMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,933,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_IndianapolisInOneMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1981      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Jamestown, TN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_JamestownTnMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,707,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_JamestownTnMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 508,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_JamestownTnMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_JamestownTnMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,215,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_JamestownTnMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,829,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_JamestownTnMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2004      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1966      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Jefferson, OH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_JeffersonOhMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 80,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_JeffersonOhMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,120,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_JeffersonOhMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_JeffersonOhMember
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Carrying Amount of Land 80,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_JeffersonOhMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,120,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_JeffersonOhMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,395,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_JeffersonOhMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1984      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Kenner, LA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_KennerLaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_KennerLaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,036,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_KennerLaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 328,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_KennerLaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KennerLaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,364,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_KennerLaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 7,543,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_KennerLaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1998      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Kennett Square, PA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_KennettSquarePaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,050,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_KennettSquarePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 22,946,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_KennettSquarePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 143,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_KennettSquarePaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,083,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KennettSquarePaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 23,056,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_KennettSquarePaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,386,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_KennettSquarePaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2008      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Kent, WA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_KentWaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 940,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_KentWaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 20,318,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_KentWaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 10,470,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_KentWaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 940,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KentWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 30,788,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_KentWaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,271,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_KentWaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Kirkland, WA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_KirklandWaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,880,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_KirklandWaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,315,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_KirklandWaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 683,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_KirklandWaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,880,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_KirklandWaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,998,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_KirklandWaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,420,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_KirklandWaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Lafayette, LA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_LafayetteLaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,928,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_LafayetteLaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,483,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_LafayetteLaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 25,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_LafayetteLaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,928,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LafayetteLaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,509,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LafayetteLaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,246,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LafayetteLaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1993      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Lecanto, FL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_LecantoFlMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_LecantoFlMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LecantoFlMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LecantoFlMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LecantoFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LecantoFlMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,996,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LecantoFlMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2004      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1986      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Lee, MA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LeeMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LeeMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 18,135,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LeeMaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 926,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LeeMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LeeMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,061,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LeeMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 6,578,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LeeMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2002      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Lenoir, NC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LenoirNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 190,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LenoirNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,748,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LenoirNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 641,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LenoirNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 190,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LenoirNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,389,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LenoirNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,413,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LenoirNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Lexington, NC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LexingtonNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LexingtonNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LexingtonNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,015,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LexingtonNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LexingtonNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,915,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LexingtonNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,664,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LexingtonNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2002      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Lincoln, NE [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LincolnNeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 390,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LincolnNeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,807,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LincolnNeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LincolnNeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 390,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LincolnNeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,807,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LincolnNeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,694,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LincolnNeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Linwood, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LinwoodNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LinwoodNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 21,984,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LinwoodNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 668,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LinwoodNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 838,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LinwoodNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 22,614,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LinwoodNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,409,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LinwoodNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Litchfield, CT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LitchfieldCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,240,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LitchfieldCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,908,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LitchfieldCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 164,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LitchfieldCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LitchfieldCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,062,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LitchfieldCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,882,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LitchfieldCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Little Neck, NY [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LittleNeckNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 3,350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LittleNeckNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 38,461,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LittleNeckNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 780,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LittleNeckNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 3,355,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LittleNeckNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 39,235,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LittleNeckNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,076,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LittleNeckNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Longview Tx One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LongviewTxOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 610,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LongviewTxOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,520,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LongviewTxOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LongviewTxOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 610,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LongviewTxOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,520,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LongviewTxOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,129,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LongviewTxOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Louisville, KY [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LouisvilleKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 490,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LouisvilleKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,010,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LouisvilleKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 2,767,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LouisvilleKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 490,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LouisvilleKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,777,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LouisvilleKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LouisvilleKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2005      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1978      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Louisville Ky One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LouisvilleKyOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LouisvilleKyOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,135,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LouisvilleKyOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 163,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LouisvilleKyOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LouisvilleKyOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,298,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LouisvilleKyOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,843,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LouisvilleKyOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2002      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1974      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Louisville Ky Two [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LouisvilleKyTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LouisvilleKyTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,675,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LouisvilleKyTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 133,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LouisvilleKyTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LouisvilleKyTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,808,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LouisvilleKyTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,903,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LouisvilleKyTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2002      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1975      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Manassas, VA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ManassasVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 750,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ManassasVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,446,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ManassasVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 530,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ManassasVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 750,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ManassasVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,976,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ManassasVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,304,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ManassasVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Mansfield, TX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MansfieldTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 660,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MansfieldTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,251,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MansfieldTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MansfieldTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 660,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MansfieldTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,251,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MansfieldTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,086,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MansfieldTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Marianna, FL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MariannaFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 340,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MariannaFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,910,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MariannaFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MariannaFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 340,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MariannaFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,910,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MariannaFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,070,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MariannaFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Martinsville, VA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MartinsvilleVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 349,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MartinsvilleVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MartinsvilleVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MartinsvilleVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 349,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MartinsvilleVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MartinsvilleVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MartinsvilleVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1900      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Matthews, NC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MatthewsNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 560,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MatthewsNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,738,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MatthewsNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MatthewsNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 560,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MatthewsNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,738,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MatthewsNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,569,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MatthewsNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Mc Henry Il [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_McHenryIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,576,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_McHenryIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_McHenryIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_McHenryIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,576,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_McHenryIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_McHenryIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_McHenryIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1900      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Mc Kinney Tx [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_McKinneyTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,570,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_McKinneyTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,389,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_McKinneyTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_McKinneyTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,570,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_McKinneyTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,389,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_McKinneyTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,022,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_McKinneyTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2009      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2010      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Melville, NY [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MelvilleNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 4,280,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MelvilleNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 73,283,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MelvilleNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,224,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MelvilleNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 4,282,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MelvilleNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 74,505,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MelvilleNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 7,661,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MelvilleNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Memphis, TN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MemphisTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 940,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MemphisTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,963,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MemphisTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MemphisTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 940,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MemphisTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,963,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MemphisTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,129,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MemphisTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2004      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1951      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Memphis Tn One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MemphisTnOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 390,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MemphisTnOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,660,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MemphisTnOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MemphisTnOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 390,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MemphisTnOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 11,260,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MemphisTnOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,326,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MemphisTnOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1981      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Menomonee Falls, WI [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MenomoneeFallsWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,020,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MenomoneeFallsWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,984,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MenomoneeFallsWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,607,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MenomoneeFallsWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,020,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MenomoneeFallsWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,591,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MenomoneeFallsWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,374,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MenomoneeFallsWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Middleburg Heights, OH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MiddleburgHeightsOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 960,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MiddleburgHeightsOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,780,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MiddleburgHeightsOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MiddleburgHeightsOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 960,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MiddleburgHeightsOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,780,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MiddleburgHeightsOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,156,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MiddleburgHeightsOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2004      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Middleton, WI [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MiddletonWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 420,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MiddletonWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,006,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MiddletonWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MiddletonWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 420,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MiddletonWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,606,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MiddletonWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,462,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MiddletonWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2001      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1991      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Midland, MI [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MidlandMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MidlandMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 11,025,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MidlandMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 5,522,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MidlandMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MidlandMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,547,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MidlandMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,244,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MidlandMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1994      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Melbourne, FL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MelbourneFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 7,070,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MelbourneFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 48,257,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MelbourneFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 13,257,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MelbourneFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 7,070,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MelbourneFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 61,514,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MelbourneFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 8,255,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MelbourneFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Missoula, MT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MissoulaMtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MissoulaMtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,490,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MissoulaMtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 377,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MissoulaMtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MissoulaMtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,867,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MissoulaMtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,935,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MissoulaMtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2005      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Monroe, NC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonroeNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 470,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonroeNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,681,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonroeNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 648,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonroeNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 470,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonroeNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,329,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonroeNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,429,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonroeNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Monroe Nc One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonroeNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 310,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonroeNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,799,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonroeNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 857,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonroeNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 310,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonroeNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,656,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonroeNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,760,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonroeNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Monroe Nc Two [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonroeNcTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonroeNcTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,021,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonroeNcTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 114,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonroeNcTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonroeNcTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,135,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonroeNcTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,363,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonroeNcTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Monteagle, TN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonteagleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 310,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonteagleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,318,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonteagleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonteagleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 310,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonteagleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,318,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonteagleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,293,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonteagleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1980      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Monterey, TN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MontereyTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MontereyTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,195,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MontereyTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 410,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MontereyTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MontereyTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,605,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MontereyTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,034,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MontereyTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2004      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1977      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Moorestown, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MoorestownNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,060,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MoorestownNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 51,628,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MoorestownNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 813,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MoorestownNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,063,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MoorestownNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 52,438,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MoorestownNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,384,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MoorestownNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Morehead City, NC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MoreheadCityNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MoreheadCityNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,104,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MoreheadCityNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,648,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MoreheadCityNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MoreheadCityNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,752,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MoreheadCityNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,815,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MoreheadCityNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1999      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Morgantown, KY [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MorgantownKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 380,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MorgantownKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,705,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MorgantownKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 615,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MorgantownKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 380,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MorgantownKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,320,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MorgantownKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,404,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MorgantownKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1965      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Mountain City, TN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MountainCityTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 220,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MountainCityTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,896,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MountainCityTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 660,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MountainCityTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 220,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MountainCityTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,556,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MountainCityTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,179,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MountainCityTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2001      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1976      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Mt. Vernon, WA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MtVernonWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MtVernonWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MtVernonWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 156,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MtVernonWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MtVernonWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,356,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MtVernonWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 501,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MtVernonWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Nacogdoches, TX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NacogdochesTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 390,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NacogdochesTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,754,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NacogdochesTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NacogdochesTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 390,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NacogdochesTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,754,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NacogdochesTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,169,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NacogdochesTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Naples, FL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NaplesFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NaplesFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NaplesFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NaplesFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NaplesFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NaplesFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,698,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NaplesFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2004      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1968      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Nashville, TN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NashvilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 4,910,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NashvilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 29,590,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NashvilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NashvilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 4,910,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NashvilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 29,590,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NashvilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,152,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NashvilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2008      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Needham, MA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NeedhamMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,610,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NeedhamMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,715,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NeedhamMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 366,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NeedhamMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,610,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NeedhamMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,081,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NeedhamMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,445,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NeedhamMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2002      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1994      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | New Haven, IN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewHavenInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 176,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewHavenInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,524,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewHavenInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewHavenInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 176,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewHavenInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,524,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewHavenInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,305,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewHavenInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2004      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1981      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Newark, DE [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewarkDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 560,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewarkDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 21,220,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewarkDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,488,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewarkDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 560,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewarkDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 22,708,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewarkDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,775,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewarkDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2004      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Norman, OK [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NormanOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 55,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NormanOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 1,484,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NormanOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NormanOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 55,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NormanOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 1,484,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NormanOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 813,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NormanOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1995      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1995      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | North Augusta, SC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthAugustaScMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 332,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthAugustaScMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,558,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthAugustaScMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthAugustaScMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 332,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthAugustaScMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,558,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthAugustaScMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,109,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthAugustaScMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1999      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Ocala, FL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OcalaFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,340,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OcalaFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,564,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OcalaFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OcalaFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,340,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OcalaFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,564,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OcalaFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,571,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OcalaFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2008      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Ogden, UT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OgdenUtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 360,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OgdenUtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OgdenUtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 699,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OgdenUtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 360,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OgdenUtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,399,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OgdenUtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,935,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OgdenUtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2004      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Oklahoma City Ok Two [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OklahomaCityOkTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 590,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OklahomaCityOkTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,513,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OklahomaCityOkTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OklahomaCityOkTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 590,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OklahomaCityOkTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,513,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OklahomaCityOkTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,347,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OklahomaCityOkTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2008      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Oklahoma City Ok Three [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OklahomaCityOkThreeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 760,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OklahomaCityOkThreeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,017,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OklahomaCityOkThreeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OklahomaCityOkThreeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 760,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OklahomaCityOkThreeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,017,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OklahomaCityOkThreeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,175,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OklahomaCityOkThreeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Omaha, NE [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OmahaNeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 370,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OmahaNeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,230,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OmahaNeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OmahaNeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 370,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OmahaNeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,230,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OmahaNeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,276,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OmahaNeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Omaha Ne One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OmahaNeOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 380,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OmahaNeOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,864,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OmahaNeOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OmahaNeOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 380,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OmahaNeOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,864,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OmahaNeOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,150,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OmahaNeOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Oneonta, NY [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OneontaNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 80,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OneontaNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,020,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OneontaNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OneontaNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 80,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OneontaNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,020,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OneontaNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 933,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OneontaNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Ormond Beach, FL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OrmondBeachFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OrmondBeachFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,739,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OrmondBeachFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 452,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OrmondBeachFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OrmondBeachFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,191,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OrmondBeachFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,791,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OrmondBeachFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2002      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1983      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Overland Park Ks One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OverlandParkKsOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 3,730,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OverlandParkKsOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 27,076,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OverlandParkKsOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 340,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OverlandParkKsOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 3,730,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OverlandParkKsOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 27,416,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OverlandParkKsOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,866,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OverlandParkKsOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2008      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Overland Park Ks Two [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OverlandParkKsTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 4,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OverlandParkKsTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 29,105,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OverlandParkKsTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 7,295,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OverlandParkKsTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 4,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OverlandParkKsTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 36,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OverlandParkKsTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,142,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OverlandParkKsTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1988      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Owasso, OK [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OwassoOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 215,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OwassoOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 1,380,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OwassoOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OwassoOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 215,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OwassoOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 1,380,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OwassoOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 673,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OwassoOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1996      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Owensboro, KY [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OwensboroKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 240,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OwensboroKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,760,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OwensboroKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 609,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OwensboroKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 240,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OwensboroKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,369,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OwensboroKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,948,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OwensboroKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1993      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1966      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Owensboro Ky One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OwensboroKyOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 225,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OwensboroKyOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,275,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OwensboroKyOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OwensboroKyOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 225,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OwensboroKyOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,275,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OwensboroKyOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,688,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OwensboroKyOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2005      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1964      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Owenton, KY [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OwentonKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OwentonKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OwentonKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OwentonKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OwentonKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OwentonKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 819,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OwentonKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2005      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1979      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Oxford, MI [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 11,275,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OxfordMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OxfordMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,791,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OxfordMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OxfordMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OxfordMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,791,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OxfordMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,812,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OxfordMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Palestine, TX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PalestineTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 180,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PalestineTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,320,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PalestineTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PalestineTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 180,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PalestineTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,620,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PalestineTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,201,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PalestineTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2005      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Palm Coast, FL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PalmCoastFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 870,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PalmCoastFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,957,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PalmCoastFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PalmCoastFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 870,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PalmCoastFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,957,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PalmCoastFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,495,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PalmCoastFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2008      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2010      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Paris, TX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ParisTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 490,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ParisTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,452,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ParisTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ParisTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 490,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ParisTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,452,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ParisTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,967,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ParisTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2005      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Paso Robles, CA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PasoRoblesCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,770,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PasoRoblesCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,630,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PasoRoblesCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 693,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PasoRoblesCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,770,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PasoRoblesCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,323,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PasoRoblesCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,150,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PasoRoblesCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2002      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Pigeon Forge, TN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PigeonForgeTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 320,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PigeonForgeTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,180,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PigeonForgeTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 117,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PigeonForgeTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 320,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PigeonForgeTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,297,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PigeonForgeTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,738,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PigeonForgeTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2001      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1986      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Pinehurst, NC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PinehurstNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PinehurstNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,690,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PinehurstNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 484,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PinehurstNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PinehurstNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,174,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PinehurstNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,085,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PinehurstNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Piqua, OH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PiquaOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 204,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PiquaOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 1,885,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PiquaOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PiquaOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 204,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PiquaOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 1,885,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PiquaOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 844,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PiquaOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1997      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Pittsburgh, PA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PittsburghPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,750,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PittsburghPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,572,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PittsburghPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 115,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PittsburghPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,750,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PittsburghPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,687,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PittsburghPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,390,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PittsburghPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2005      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Plattsmouth, NE [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlattsmouthNeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlattsmouthNeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,650,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlattsmouthNeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlattsmouthNeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlattsmouthNeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,650,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlattsmouthNeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 742,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlattsmouthNeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Plymouth, MI [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlymouthMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,490,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlymouthMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,990,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlymouthMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 129,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlymouthMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,490,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlymouthMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 20,119,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlymouthMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,192,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlymouthMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1972      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Port St. Joe, FL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PortStJoeFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 370,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PortStJoeFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,055,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PortStJoeFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PortStJoeFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 370,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PortStJoeFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,055,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PortStJoeFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,060,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PortStJoeFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2004      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1982      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Port St. Lucie, FL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PortStLucieFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 8,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PortStLucieFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 47,230,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PortStLucieFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 5,882,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PortStLucieFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 8,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PortStLucieFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 53,112,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PortStLucieFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 6,406,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PortStLucieFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2008      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2010      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Post Falls, ID [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PostFallsIdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PostFallsIdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,217,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PostFallsIdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 2,181,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PostFallsIdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PostFallsIdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,398,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PostFallsIdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,770,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PostFallsIdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2008      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Raleigh, NC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RaleighNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RaleighNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RaleighNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RaleighNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RaleighNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RaleighNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RaleighNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2008      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1900      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Rehoboth Beach, DE [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RehobothBeachDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 960,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RehobothBeachDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 24,248,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RehobothBeachDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 368,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RehobothBeachDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 973,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RehobothBeachDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 24,603,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RehobothBeachDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,573,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RehobothBeachDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Reidsville, NC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ReidsvilleNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 170,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ReidsvilleNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,830,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ReidsvilleNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 857,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ReidsvilleNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 170,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ReidsvilleNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,687,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ReidsvilleNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,605,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ReidsvilleNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2002      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Reno, NV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RenoNvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,060,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RenoNvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 11,440,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RenoNvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 605,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RenoNvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,060,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RenoNvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,045,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RenoNvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,217,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RenoNvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2004      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Ridgeland, MS [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RidgelandMsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 520,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RidgelandMsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,675,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RidgelandMsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 427,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RidgelandMsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 520,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RidgelandMsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,102,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RidgelandMsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,362,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RidgelandMsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Ridgely, TN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RidgelyTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RidgelyTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RidgelyTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 97,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RidgelyTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RidgelyTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,797,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RidgelyTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,173,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RidgelyTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2001      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1990      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Rockledge, FL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockledgeFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 360,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockledgeFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,117,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockledgeFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockledgeFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 360,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockledgeFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,117,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockledgeFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,868,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockledgeFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2001      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1970      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Rockwood, TN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockwoodTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockwoodTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,116,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockwoodTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 741,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockwoodTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockwoodTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,857,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockwoodTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,905,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockwoodTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2001      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1979      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Rocky Hill Ct One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockyHillCtOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,090,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockyHillCtOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,710,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockyHillCtOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockyHillCtOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,090,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockyHillCtOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,210,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockyHillCtOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,281,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockyHillCtOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Rogersville, TN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RogersvilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RogersvilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,278,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RogersvilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RogersvilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RogersvilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,278,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RogersvilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,282,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RogersvilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1980      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Romeoville, IL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RomeovilleIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,895,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RomeovilleIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RomeovilleIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RomeovilleIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,894,860us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RomeovilleIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RomeovilleIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RomeovilleIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1900      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Salem, OR [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SalemOrMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 449,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SalemOrMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,171,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SalemOrMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SalemOrMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 448,585us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SalemOrMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,171,713us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SalemOrMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,220,122.83us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SalemOrMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1999      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Salisbury, NC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SalisburyNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 370,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SalisburyNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,697,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SalisburyNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 168,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SalisburyNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 370,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SalisburyNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,865,241.2us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SalisburyNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,847,807.05us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SalisburyNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | San Angelo, TX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanAngeloTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 260,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanAngeloTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanAngeloTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 425,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanAngeloTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 260,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanAngeloTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,224,971us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanAngeloTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,413,968.43us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanAngeloTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2004      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | San Antonio Tx One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanAntonioTxOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 6,120,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanAntonioTxOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 28,169,008.29us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanAntonioTxOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 2,124,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanAntonioTxOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 6,120,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanAntonioTxOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 30,292,930.6us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanAntonioTxOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,672,186.4us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanAntonioTxOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2011      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Sarasota, FL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SarasotaFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 475,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SarasotaFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,175,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SarasotaFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SarasotaFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 475,200us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SarasotaFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,174,800us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SarasotaFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,621,504.54us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SarasotaFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1996      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1995      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Sarasota Fl Two [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SarasotaFlTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SarasotaFlTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SarasotaFlTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SarasotaFlTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SarasotaFlTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SarasotaFlTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,181,178.54us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SarasotaFlTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2004      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1982      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Selbyville, DE [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SelbyvilleDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 750,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SelbyvilleDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 25,912,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SelbyvilleDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 220,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SelbyvilleDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 769,135us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SelbyvilleDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 26,113,061.12us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SelbyvilleDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,743,327.33us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SelbyvilleDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2008      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Seven Fields, PA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SevenFieldsPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 484,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SevenFieldsPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,663,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SevenFieldsPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 60,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SevenFieldsPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 484,416us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SevenFieldsPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,722,227.27us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SevenFieldsPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,033,447.33us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SevenFieldsPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1999      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Shawnee, OK [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShawneeOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 80,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShawneeOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 1,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShawneeOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShawneeOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 80,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShawneeOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 1,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShawneeOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 705,515.25us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShawneeOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1996      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1995      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Shelbyville, KY [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShelbyvilleKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 630,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShelbyvilleKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,870,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShelbyvilleKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 602,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShelbyvilleKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 630,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShelbyvilleKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,471,592.63us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShelbyvilleKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,096,112.58us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShelbyvilleKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2005      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1965      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Sherman, TX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0.01us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShermanTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShermanTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,221,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShermanTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShermanTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShermanTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,221,162.85us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShermanTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,130,899.2us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShermanTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2005      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Shrewsbury, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShrewsburyNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,120,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShrewsburyNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 38,116,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShrewsburyNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 561,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShrewsburyNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,122,500us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShrewsburyNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 38,674,003.01us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShrewsburyNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,016,280.88us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShrewsburyNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Silvis, IL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SilvisIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 880,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SilvisIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 16,420,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SilvisIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 139,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SilvisIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 880,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SilvisIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,559,129us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SilvisIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,913,863.16us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SilvisIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2005      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Smithfield, NC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0.830000000074506us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SmithfieldNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SmithfieldNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,680,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SmithfieldNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SmithfieldNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SmithfieldNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,680,341.93us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SmithfieldNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,805,801.5us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SmithfieldNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | South Boston, MA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SouthBostonMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 385,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SouthBostonMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,002,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SouthBostonMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 5,218,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SouthBostonMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 385,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SouthBostonMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,219,788.22us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SouthBostonMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,154,290.61us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SouthBostonMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1995      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1961      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | South Pittsburg, TN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SouthPittsburgTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SouthPittsburgTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,628,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SouthPittsburgTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SouthPittsburgTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SouthPittsburgTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,627,974us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SouthPittsburgTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,900,525.85us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SouthPittsburgTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2004      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1979      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Sparks, NV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SparksNvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 3,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SparksNvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 46,526,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SparksNvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SparksNvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 3,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SparksNvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 46,525,920.86us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SparksNvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 6,862,050.5us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SparksNvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Spring City, TN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SpringCityTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 420,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SpringCityTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,085,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SpringCityTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 3,210,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SpringCityTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 420,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SpringCityTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,294,907.23us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SpringCityTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,119,787.57us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SpringCityTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2001      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1987      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | St Louis Mo One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StLouisMoOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,890,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StLouisMoOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 12,165,289.45us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StLouisMoOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 131,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StLouisMoOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,890,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StLouisMoOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,296,732.45us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StLouisMoOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,378,484.84us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StLouisMoOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1963      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Statesville, NC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StatesvilleNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 150,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StatesvilleNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 1,447,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StatesvilleNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 266,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StatesvilleNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 150,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StatesvilleNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 1,713,361.56us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StatesvilleNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 583,945.7us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StatesvilleNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1990      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Statesville Nc One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StatesvilleNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 310,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StatesvilleNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,183,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StatesvilleNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 8,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StatesvilleNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 310,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StatesvilleNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,190,659.99us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StatesvilleNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,903,841.56us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StatesvilleNcOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Statesville Nc Two [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StatesvilleNcTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 140,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StatesvilleNcTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,627,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StatesvilleNcTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StatesvilleNcTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 140,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StatesvilleNcTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,626,631.62us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StatesvilleNcTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,146,170.83us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StatesvilleNcTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Stillwater, OK [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StillwaterOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 80,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StillwaterOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 1,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StillwaterOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StillwaterOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 80,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StillwaterOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 1,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StillwaterOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 708,156.62us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StillwaterOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1995      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1995      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Swanton, OH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SwantonOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SwantonOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,370,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SwantonOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SwantonOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SwantonOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,370,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SwantonOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,875,752.06us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SwantonOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2004      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1950      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Texarkana, TX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TexarkanaTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 192,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TexarkanaTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 1,403,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TexarkanaTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TexarkanaTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 192,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TexarkanaTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 1,403,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TexarkanaTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 682,958.37us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TexarkanaTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1996      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Toms River, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TomsRiverNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,610,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TomsRiverNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 34,627,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TomsRiverNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 594,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TomsRiverNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,672,330.35us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TomsRiverNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 35,158,890.23us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TomsRiverNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,684,719.13us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TomsRiverNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2005      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Troy, OH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TroyOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TroyOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TroyOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 4,254,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TroyOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TroyOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,253,802.32us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TroyOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,504,399.67us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TroyOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1997      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Troy Oh One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TroyOhOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 470,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TroyOhOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 16,730,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TroyOhOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TroyOhOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 470,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TroyOhOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,730,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TroyOhOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,743,788.16us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TroyOhOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2004      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1971      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Tulsa, OK [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TulsaOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,390,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TulsaOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,110,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TulsaOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 462,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TulsaOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,390,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TulsaOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,571,671us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TulsaOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,011,000.41us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TulsaOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Tyler, TX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0.01us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TylerTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 650,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TylerTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,268,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TylerTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TylerTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 650,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TylerTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,267,772.34us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TylerTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,081,257.63us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TylerTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Uhrichsville, OH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_UhrichsvilleOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 24,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_UhrichsvilleOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,716,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_UhrichsvilleOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_UhrichsvilleOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 24,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_UhrichsvilleOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,716,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_UhrichsvilleOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,690,258.34us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_UhrichsvilleOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1977      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Valparaiso, IN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 112,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,558,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 112,200us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_ValparaisoInMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,557,800us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_ValparaisoInMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 966,707.5us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_ValparaisoInMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2001      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Valparaiso In One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 108,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_ValparaisoInOneMember
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,962,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_ValparaisoInOneMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_ValparaisoInOneMember
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Carrying Amount of Land 107,800us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_ValparaisoInOneMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,962,200us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_ValparaisoInOneMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,098,084.06us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_ValparaisoInOneMember
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2001      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Venice, FL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_VeniceFlMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_VeniceFlMember
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Carrying Amount of Land 500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_VeniceFlMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_VeniceFlMember
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,836,595.16us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_VeniceFlMember
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2004      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1987      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Venice Fl One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,150,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,674,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_VeniceFlOneMember
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_VeniceFlOneMember
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,150,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,674,107.49us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,509,263.45us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2008      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Vero Beach, FL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 263,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_VeroBeachFlMember
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,187,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_VeroBeachFlMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_VeroBeachFlMember
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Carrying Amount of Land 263,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_VeroBeachFlMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,187,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_VeroBeachFlMember
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,170,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_VeroBeachFlMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2001      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Vero Beach Fl One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 297,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_VeroBeachFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,263,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_VeroBeachFlOneMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_VeroBeachFlOneMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 297,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_VeroBeachFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,263,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_VeroBeachFlOneMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,209,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_VeroBeachFlOneMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2001      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Vero Beach Fl Two [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,930,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_VeroBeachFlTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 40,070,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_VeroBeachFlTwoMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 14,729,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_VeroBeachFlTwoMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,930,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_VeroBeachFlTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 54,799,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_VeroBeachFlTwoMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 9,214,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_VeroBeachFlTwoMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2003      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Wake Forest, NC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_WakeForestNcMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_WakeForestNcMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,003,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_WakeForestNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,742,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_WakeForestNcMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_WakeForestNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,745,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WakeForestNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,863,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_WakeForestNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1998      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Wareham, MA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_WarehamMaMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 875,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WarehamMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,313,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WarehamMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,701,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WarehamMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 875,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WarehamMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,014,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WarehamMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,384,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WarehamMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2002      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1989      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Waxahachie, TX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_WaxahachieTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 650,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_WaxahachieTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,763,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WaxahachieTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_WaxahachieTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 650,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WaxahachieTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,763,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WaxahachieTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,045,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WaxahachieTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2008      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Weatherford, TX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WeatherfordTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 660,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WeatherfordTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,261,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WeatherfordTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WeatherfordTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 660,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WeatherfordTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,261,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WeatherfordTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,088,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WeatherfordTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | West Worthington, OH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestWorthingtonOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 510,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestWorthingtonOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,090,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestWorthingtonOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestWorthingtonOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 510,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestWorthingtonOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,090,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestWorthingtonOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestWorthingtonOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1980      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Westerville, OH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestervilleOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 740,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestervilleOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,287,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestervilleOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 3,105,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestervilleOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 740,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestervilleOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 11,392,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestervilleOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 7,518,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestervilleOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1998      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Westlake, OH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestlakeOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestlakeOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,926,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestlakeOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestlakeOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestlakeOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 17,926,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestlakeOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 6,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestlakeOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2001      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1985      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Westmoreland, TN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestmorelandTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestmorelandTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 1,822,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestmorelandTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 2,640,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestmorelandTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestmorelandTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,462,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestmorelandTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,736,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestmorelandTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2001      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1994      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | White Lake, MI [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 10,231,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WhiteLakeMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,920,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WhiteLakeMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 20,179,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WhiteLakeMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 92,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WhiteLakeMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,920,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WhiteLakeMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 20,271,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WhiteLakeMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,256,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WhiteLakeMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Wichita, KS [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WichitaKsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WichitaKsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 11,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WichitaKsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WichitaKsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WichitaKsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 11,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WichitaKsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,066,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WichitaKsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Williamstown, KY [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilliamstownKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 70,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilliamstownKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilliamstownKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilliamstownKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 70,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilliamstownKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilliamstownKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,804,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilliamstownKyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2005      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1987      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Wilmington, NC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilmingtonNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 210,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilmingtonNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,991,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilmingtonNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilmingtonNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 210,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilmingtonNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,991,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilmingtonNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,278,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilmingtonNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1999      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Winston-Salem, NC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WinstonSalemNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 360,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WinstonSalemNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,514,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WinstonSalemNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 459,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WinstonSalemNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 360,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WinstonSalemNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,973,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WinstonSalemNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 979,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WinstonSalemNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Worcester, MA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WorcesterMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 3,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WorcesterMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 54,099,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WorcesterMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WorcesterMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 3,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WorcesterMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 54,099,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WorcesterMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 7,241,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WorcesterMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Worcester Ma One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WorcesterMaOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WorcesterMaOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,060,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WorcesterMaOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WorcesterMaOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WorcesterMaOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,060,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WorcesterMaOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,598,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WorcesterMaOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2008      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1993      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Zionsville, IN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ZionsvilleInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,610,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ZionsvilleInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 22,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ZionsvilleInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,691,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ZionsvilleInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,610,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ZionsvilleInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 24,091,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ZionsvilleInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,636,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ZionsvilleInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Andover, MA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AndoverMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,310,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AndoverMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 12,647,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AndoverMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 27,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AndoverMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,310,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AndoverMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,674,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AndoverMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,455,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AndoverMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1985      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Annapolis, MD [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AnnapolisMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,010,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AnnapolisMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 24,825,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AnnapolisMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 151,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AnnapolisMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,010,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AnnapolisMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 24,976,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AnnapolisMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,542,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AnnapolisMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1993      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Ansted, WV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AnstedWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 240,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AnstedWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,113,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AnstedWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 108,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AnstedWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 240,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AnstedWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,221,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AnstedWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,422,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AnstedWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1982      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Aspen Hill, MD [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AspenHillMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AspenHillMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,008,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AspenHillMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,181,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AspenHillMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AspenHillMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,188,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AspenHillMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,081,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AspenHillMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1988      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Aurora, OH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AuroraOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,760,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AuroraOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,148,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AuroraOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 106,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AuroraOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,760,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AuroraOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,254,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AuroraOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,664,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AuroraOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2002      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Avon Lake, OH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AvonLakeOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 790,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AvonLakeOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,421,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AvonLakeOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 142,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AvonLakeOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 790,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AvonLakeOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,562,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AvonLakeOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,278,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AvonLakeOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Ayer, MA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AyerMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AyerMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 22,074,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AyerMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 3,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AyerMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AyerMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 22,077,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AyerMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,260,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AyerMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1988      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Baltimore, MD [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BaltimoreMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BaltimoreMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,884,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BaltimoreMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 321,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BaltimoreMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BaltimoreMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,204,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BaltimoreMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,624,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BaltimoreMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1905      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Baltimore, MD 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BaltimoreMd2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BaltimoreMd2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,039,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BaltimoreMd2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 147,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BaltimoreMd2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BaltimoreMd2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,186,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BaltimoreMd2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 653,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BaltimoreMd2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1969      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Bedford, NH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BedfordNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BedfordNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 28,831,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BedfordNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 5,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BedfordNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BedfordNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 28,836,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BedfordNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,936,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BedfordNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1978      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Benbrook, TX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BenbrookTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BenbrookTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,553,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BenbrookTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 769,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BenbrookTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BenbrookTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,322,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BenbrookTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,315,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BenbrookTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1984      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Bluefield, VA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BluefieldVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BluefieldVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 12,463,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BluefieldVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 32,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BluefieldVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BluefieldVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,495,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BluefieldVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,309,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BluefieldVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1990      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Brookline, MA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrooklineMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,760,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrooklineMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,217,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrooklineMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 3,369,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrooklineMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,760,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrooklineMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,586,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrooklineMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,327,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrooklineMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1984      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Brooklyn Park, MD [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrooklynParkMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrooklynParkMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 16,329,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrooklynParkMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 29,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrooklynParkMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrooklynParkMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,358,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrooklynParkMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,732,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrooklynParkMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1973      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Burleson, TX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlesonTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 670,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlesonTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,985,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlesonTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlesonTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 670,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlesonTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,235,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlesonTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,391,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlesonTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1988      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Burlington, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlingtonNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlingtonNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 12,554,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlingtonNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 466,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlingtonNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlingtonNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,020,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlingtonNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,552,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlingtonNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1965      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Burlington, NJ 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlingtonNj2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,170,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlingtonNj2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,205,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlingtonNj2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 167,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlingtonNj2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,170,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlingtonNj2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,372,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlingtonNj2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,916,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlingtonNj2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1994      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Cambridge, MD [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CambridgeMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 490,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CambridgeMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,843,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CambridgeMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 207,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CambridgeMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 490,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CambridgeMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,050,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CambridgeMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,650,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CambridgeMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1990      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Catonsville, MD [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CatonsvilleMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CatonsvilleMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,003,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CatonsvilleMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 549,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CatonsvilleMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CatonsvilleMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,552,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CatonsvilleMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,645,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CatonsvilleMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1973      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Cedar Grove, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CedarGroveNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,830,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CedarGroveNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,939,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CedarGroveNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 10,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CedarGroveNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,830,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CedarGroveNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,949,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CedarGroveNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,214,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CedarGroveNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1964      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Cedar Grove, NJ 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CedarGroveNj2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,850,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CedarGroveNj2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 27,737,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CedarGroveNj2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 21,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CedarGroveNj2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,850,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CedarGroveNj2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 27,757,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CedarGroveNj2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,895,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CedarGroveNj2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1970      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Centreville, MD [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CentrevilleMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CentrevilleMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,602,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CentrevilleMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 241,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CentrevilleMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CentrevilleMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,843,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CentrevilleMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,562,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CentrevilleMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1978      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Charles Town, WV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CharlesTownWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 230,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CharlesTownWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 22,834,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CharlesTownWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 30,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CharlesTownWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 230,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CharlesTownWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 22,863,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CharlesTownWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,264,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CharlesTownWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Charleston, WV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CharlestonWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 440,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CharlestonWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,575,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CharlestonWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 297,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CharlestonWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 440,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CharlestonWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 17,873,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CharlestonWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,772,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CharlestonWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Charleston, WV 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CharlestonWv2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 410,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CharlestonWv2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CharlestonWv2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 13,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CharlestonWv2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 410,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CharlestonWv2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,444,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CharlestonWv2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 615,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CharlestonWv2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1979      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Cinnaminson, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CinnaminsonNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 860,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CinnaminsonNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,663,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CinnaminsonNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 149,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CinnaminsonNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 860,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CinnaminsonNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,812,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CinnaminsonNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 809,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CinnaminsonNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1965      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Clark Summit, PA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClarkSummitPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClarkSummitPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 11,179,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClarkSummitPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 15,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClarkSummitPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClarkSummitPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 11,194,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClarkSummitPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,234,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClarkSummitPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1985      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Clarks Summit, PA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClarksSummitPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClarksSummitPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,529,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClarksSummitPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 54,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClarksSummitPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClarksSummitPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,583,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClarksSummitPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 739,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClarksSummitPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Cloquet, MN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CloquetMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 340,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CloquetMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,660,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CloquetMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 120,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CloquetMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 340,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CloquetMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,780,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CloquetMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 431,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CloquetMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Colchester, CT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColchesterCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 980,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColchesterCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,860,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColchesterCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 495,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColchesterCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 980,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColchesterCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,355,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColchesterCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 687,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColchesterCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1986      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Columbia Heights, MN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColumbiaHeightsMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 825,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColumbiaHeightsMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,175,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColumbiaHeightsMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 163,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColumbiaHeightsMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 825,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColumbiaHeightsMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,338,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColumbiaHeightsMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,223,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ColumbiaHeightsMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Concord, NH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConcordNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 780,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConcordNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 18,423,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConcordNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 446,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConcordNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 780,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConcordNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,869,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConcordNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,874,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConcordNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1972      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Concord, NH 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConcordNh2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,760,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConcordNh2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 43,179,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConcordNh2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 568,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConcordNh2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,760,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConcordNh2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 43,747,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConcordNh2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,352,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConcordNh2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1994      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Concord, NH 3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConcordNh3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 720,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConcordNh3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,041,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConcordNh3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 340,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConcordNh3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 720,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConcordNh3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,381,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConcordNh3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 415,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConcordNh3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1905      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Daniels, WV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DanielsWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DanielsWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,320,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DanielsWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 49,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DanielsWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DanielsWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 17,370,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DanielsWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,732,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DanielsWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1986      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Dover, DE [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DoverDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DoverDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,717,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DoverDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 38,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DoverDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DoverDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,755,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DoverDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 849,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DoverDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Dover, DE 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DoverDe2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DoverDe2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 22,266,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DoverDe2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 90,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DoverDe2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DoverDe2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 22,356,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DoverDe2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,278,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DoverDe2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1984      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Dundalk, MD [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DundalkMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,770,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DundalkMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 32,047,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DundalkMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 785,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DundalkMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,770,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DundalkMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 32,831,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DundalkMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,305,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DundalkMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1978      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | East Brunswick, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EastBrunswickNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,380,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EastBrunswickNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 34,229,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EastBrunswickNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 489,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EastBrunswickNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,380,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EastBrunswickNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 34,717,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EastBrunswickNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,010,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EastBrunswickNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Easton, MD [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EastonMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EastonMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 24,539,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EastonMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EastonMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EastonMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 24,539,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EastonMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,579,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EastonMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1962      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Eatontown, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EatontownNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,190,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EatontownNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 23,358,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EatontownNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 67,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EatontownNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,190,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EatontownNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 23,426,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EatontownNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,438,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EatontownNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Englewood, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EnglewoodNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 930,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EnglewoodNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,514,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EnglewoodNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 17,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EnglewoodNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 930,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EnglewoodNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,531,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EnglewoodNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 520,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EnglewoodNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1966      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Fair Lawn, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FairLawnNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,420,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FairLawnNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 24,504,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FairLawnNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 444,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FairLawnNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,420,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FairLawnNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 24,948,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FairLawnNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,564,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FairLawnNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1962      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Fanwood, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FanwoodNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,850,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FanwoodNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 55,175,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FanwoodNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 574,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FanwoodNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,850,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FanwoodNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 55,750,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FanwoodNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,786,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FanwoodNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1982      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Flourtown, PA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FlourtownPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FlourtownPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,830,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FlourtownPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 203,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FlourtownPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FlourtownPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,033,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FlourtownPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,587,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FlourtownPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1908      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Follansbee, WV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FollansbeeWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 640,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FollansbeeWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 27,670,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FollansbeeWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 49,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FollansbeeWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 640,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FollansbeeWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 27,719,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FollansbeeWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,795,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FollansbeeWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1982      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Fort Ashby, WV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FortAshbyWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FortAshbyWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,566,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FortAshbyWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 123,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FortAshbyWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FortAshbyWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,689,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FortAshbyWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,944,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FortAshbyWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1980      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Franconia, NH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FranconiaNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 360,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FranconiaNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 11,320,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FranconiaNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 69,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FranconiaNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 360,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FranconiaNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 11,390,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FranconiaNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,177,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FranconiaNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1971      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Franklin, NH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FranklinNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FranklinNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,210,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FranklinNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 47,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FranklinNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FranklinNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,257,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FranklinNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,562,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FranklinNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1990      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Gardner, MA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GardnerMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 480,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GardnerMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,210,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GardnerMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 27,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GardnerMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 480,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GardnerMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,237,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GardnerMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,107,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GardnerMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1902      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Gettysburg, PA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GettysburgPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 590,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GettysburgPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,913,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GettysburgPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 91,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GettysburgPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 590,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GettysburgPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,003,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GettysburgPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,022,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GettysburgPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1987      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Glastonbury, CT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GlastonburyCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,950,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GlastonburyCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,532,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GlastonburyCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 909,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GlastonburyCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,360,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GlastonburyCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,031,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GlastonburyCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,116,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GlastonburyCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1966      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Glen Mills, PA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GlenMillsPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 690,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GlenMillsPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,110,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GlenMillsPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 165,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GlenMillsPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 690,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GlenMillsPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,275,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GlenMillsPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,006,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GlenMillsPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1993      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Glenside, PA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GlensidePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,940,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GlensidePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 16,867,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GlensidePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 153,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GlensidePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,940,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GlensidePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 17,020,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GlensidePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,786,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GlensidePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1905      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Grafton, WV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GraftonWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 280,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GraftonWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 18,824,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GraftonWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 37,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GraftonWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 280,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GraftonWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,861,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GraftonWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,874,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GraftonWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1986      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Granbury, TX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GranburyTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,040,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GranburyTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 30,670,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GranburyTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 149,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GranburyTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,040,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GranburyTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 30,819,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GranburyTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,003,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GranburyTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Groton, CT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GrotonCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GrotonCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,941,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GrotonCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 895,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GrotonCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GrotonCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 20,836,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GrotonCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,292,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GrotonCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1975      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Hamburg, PA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HamburgPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 840,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HamburgPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,543,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HamburgPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 191,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HamburgPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 840,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HamburgPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,734,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HamburgPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,258,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HamburgPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1966      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Hatboro, PA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HatboroPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HatboroPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 28,112,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HatboroPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,746,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HatboroPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HatboroPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 29,858,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HatboroPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,910,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HatboroPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Hermitage, TN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HermitageTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HermitageTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,856,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HermitageTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 47,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HermitageTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HermitageTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,902,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HermitageTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 929,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HermitageTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Hilltop, WV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HilltopWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 480,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HilltopWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 25,355,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HilltopWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 15,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HilltopWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 480,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HilltopWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 25,370,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HilltopWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,564,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HilltopWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1977      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Huntington, WV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HuntingtonWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HuntingtonWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 32,261,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HuntingtonWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 126,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HuntingtonWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HuntingtonWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 32,387,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HuntingtonWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,280,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HuntingtonWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1976      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Hurricane, WV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HurricaneWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 620,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HurricaneWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 21,454,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HurricaneWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 805,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HurricaneWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 620,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HurricaneWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 22,258,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HurricaneWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,255,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HurricaneWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1986      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Keene, NH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KeeneNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 530,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KeeneNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,639,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KeeneNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 284,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KeeneNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 530,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KeeneNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,923,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KeeneNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 968,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KeeneNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1980      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Laconia, NH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LaconiaNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 810,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LaconiaNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,434,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LaconiaNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 497,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LaconiaNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 810,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LaconiaNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,930,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LaconiaNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,546,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LaconiaNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1968      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Lake Zurich, IL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LakeZurichIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,470,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LakeZurichIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,830,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LakeZurichIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LakeZurichIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,470,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LakeZurichIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,830,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LakeZurichIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 983,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LakeZurichIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Lancaster, NH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LancasterNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LancasterNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,804,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LancasterNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 161,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LancasterNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LancasterNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,964,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LancasterNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,625,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LancasterNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1981      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Lancaster, NH 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LancasterNh2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 160,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LancasterNh2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 434,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LancasterNh2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 28,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LancasterNh2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 160,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LancasterNh2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 462,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LancasterNh2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 91,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LancasterNh2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1905      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Lancaster, PA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LancasterPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 890,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LancasterPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,623,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LancasterPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 80,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LancasterPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 890,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LancasterPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,702,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LancasterPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 901,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LancasterPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1928      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Langhorne, PA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LanghornePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LanghornePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 24,881,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LanghornePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 117,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LanghornePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LanghornePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 24,998,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LanghornePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,618,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LanghornePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1979      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | La Plata, MD 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LaPlataMd2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LaPlataMd2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,068,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LaPlataMd2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 466,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LaPlataMd2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LaPlataMd2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,534,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LaPlataMd2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,018,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LaPlataMd2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1984      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Lebanon, NH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LebanonNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LebanonNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 20,138,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LebanonNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 64,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LebanonNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LebanonNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 20,202,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LebanonNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,062,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LebanonNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1985      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Leominster, MA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LeominsterMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 530,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LeominsterMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,201,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LeominsterMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 25,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LeominsterMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 530,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LeominsterMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,226,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LeominsterMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 746,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LeominsterMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1966      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Lewisburg, WV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LewisburgWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 260,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LewisburgWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,699,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LewisburgWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 70,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LewisburgWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 260,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LewisburgWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,769,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LewisburgWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 451,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LewisburgWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1995      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Libertyville, IL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LibertyvilleIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 6,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LibertyvilleIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 40,024,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LibertyvilleIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LibertyvilleIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 6,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LibertyvilleIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 40,024,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LibertyvilleIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,059,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LibertyvilleIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Lowell, MA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LowellMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,070,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LowellMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,481,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LowellMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 103,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LowellMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,070,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LowellMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,584,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LowellMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,489,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LowellMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1975      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Lowell, MA 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LowellMa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 680,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LowellMa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,378,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LowellMa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 30,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LowellMa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 680,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LowellMa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,408,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LowellMa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 457,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LowellMa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1969      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Lutherville, MD [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LuthervilleMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LuthervilleMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,786,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LuthervilleMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,579,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LuthervilleMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LuthervilleMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 21,365,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LuthervilleMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,127,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LuthervilleMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1988      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Macungie, PA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MacungiePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 960,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MacungiePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 29,033,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MacungiePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 17,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MacungiePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 960,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MacungiePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 29,049,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MacungiePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,921,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MacungiePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1994      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Manahawkin, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ManahawkinNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,020,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ManahawkinNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 20,361,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ManahawkinNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 122,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ManahawkinNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,020,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ManahawkinNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 20,483,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ManahawkinNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,126,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ManahawkinNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1994      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Manalapan, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ManalapanNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ManalapanNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 22,624,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ManalapanNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 156,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ManalapanNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ManalapanNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 22,780,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ManalapanNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,991,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ManalapanNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Marlinton, WV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MarlintonWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 270,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MarlintonWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MarlintonWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 11,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MarlintonWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 270,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MarlintonWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,441,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MarlintonWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 896,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MarlintonWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1987      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Marmet, WV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MarmetWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MarmetWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 26,483,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MarmetWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MarmetWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MarmetWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 26,483,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MarmetWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,623,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MarmetWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1986      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Martinsburg, WV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MartinsburgWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 340,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MartinsburgWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,180,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MartinsburgWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 50,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MartinsburgWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 340,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MartinsburgWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 17,230,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MartinsburgWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,719,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MartinsburgWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1987      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Matawan, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MatawanNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,830,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MatawanNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 20,618,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MatawanNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 7,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MatawanNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,830,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MatawanNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 20,625,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MatawanNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,769,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MatawanNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1965      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Mendham, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MendhamNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,240,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MendhamNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 27,169,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MendhamNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 633,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MendhamNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,240,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MendhamNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 27,802,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MendhamNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,768,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MendhamNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1968      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Mercerville, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MercervilleNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 860,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MercervilleNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,929,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MercervilleNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 115,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MercervilleNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 860,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MercervilleNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,045,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MercervilleNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,113,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MercervilleNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1967      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Meriden, CT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MeridenCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MeridenCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 1,472,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MeridenCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 5,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MeridenCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MeridenCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 1,477,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MeridenCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 338,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MeridenCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1968      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Middletown, RI [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MiddletownRiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,480,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MiddletownRiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,703,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MiddletownRiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MiddletownRiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,480,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MiddletownRiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,703,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MiddletownRiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,076,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MiddletownRiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1975      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Milford, DE [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilfordDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilfordDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,816,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilfordDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 40,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilfordDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilfordDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,855,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilfordDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 858,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilfordDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Milford, DE 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilfordDe2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 680,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilfordDe2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,216,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilfordDe2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 58,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilfordDe2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 680,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilfordDe2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,274,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilfordDe2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,015,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilfordDe2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1905      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Millersville, MD [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MillersvilleMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 680,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MillersvilleMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 1,020,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MillersvilleMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 25,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MillersvilleMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 680,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MillersvilleMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 1,045,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MillersvilleMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,045,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MillersvilleMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1962      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Millville, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MillvilleNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 840,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MillvilleNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 29,944,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MillvilleNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 104,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MillvilleNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 840,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MillvilleNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 30,048,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MillvilleNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,071,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MillvilleNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1986      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Monmouth Junction, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonmouthJunctionNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 720,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonmouthJunctionNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,209,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonmouthJunctionNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 57,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonmouthJunctionNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 720,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonmouthJunctionNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,266,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonmouthJunctionNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 733,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonmouthJunctionNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Monroe Twp, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonroeTwpNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,160,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonroeTwpNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,193,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonroeTwpNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 75,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonroeTwpNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,160,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonroeTwpNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,268,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonroeTwpNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,479,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonroeTwpNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Montville, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MontvilleNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 3,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MontvilleNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 31,002,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MontvilleNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 428,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MontvilleNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 3,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MontvilleNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 31,429,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MontvilleNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,789,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MontvilleNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1988      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Morgantown, WV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MorgantownWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 190,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MorgantownWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,633,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MorgantownWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 20,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MorgantownWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 190,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MorgantownWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,653,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MorgantownWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,248,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MorgantownWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Naperville, IL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NapervilleIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 3,470,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NapervilleIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 29,547,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NapervilleIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NapervilleIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 3,470,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NapervilleIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 29,547,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NapervilleIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,054,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NapervilleIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Naugatuck, CT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NaugatuckCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NaugatuckCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,826,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NaugatuckCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 176,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NaugatuckCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NaugatuckCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,002,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NaugatuckCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,678,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NaugatuckCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1980      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | New Braunfels, TX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewBraunfelsTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewBraunfelsTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewBraunfelsTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewBraunfelsTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewBraunfelsTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewBraunfelsTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,998,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewBraunfelsTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Newport, VT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewportVtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewportVtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,867,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewportVtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewportVtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewportVtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,867,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewportVtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 452,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewportVtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1967      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Norristown, PA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorristownPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorristownPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,488,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorristownPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,762,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorristownPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorristownPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 21,250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorristownPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,101,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorristownPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1995      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | North Andover, MA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthAndoverMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 950,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthAndoverMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 21,817,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthAndoverMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 54,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthAndoverMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 950,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthAndoverMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 21,870,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthAndoverMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,243,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthAndoverMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1977      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | North Andover, MA 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthAndoverMa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,070,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthAndoverMa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,341,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthAndoverMa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,303,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthAndoverMa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,070,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthAndoverMa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,644,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthAndoverMa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,928,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthAndoverMa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1990      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | North Cape May, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthCapeMayNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthCapeMayNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 22,266,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthCapeMayNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 36,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthCapeMayNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthCapeMayNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 22,302,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthCapeMayNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,275,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthCapeMayNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1995      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Oak Hill, WV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OakHillWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 240,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OakHillWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 24,506,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OakHillWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OakHillWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 240,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OakHillWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 24,506,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OakHillWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,422,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OakHillWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1988      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Oak Hill, WV 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OakHillWv2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 170,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OakHillWv2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 721,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OakHillWv2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OakHillWv2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 170,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OakHillWv2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 721,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OakHillWv2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 157,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OakHillWv2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Orwigsburg, PA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OrwigsburgPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 650,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OrwigsburgPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 20,632,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OrwigsburgPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 134,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OrwigsburgPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 650,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OrwigsburgPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 20,766,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OrwigsburgPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,143,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OrwigsburgPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1992      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Panama City Beach, FL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PanamaCityBeachFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PanamaCityBeachFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,717,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PanamaCityBeachFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 35,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PanamaCityBeachFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PanamaCityBeachFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,752,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PanamaCityBeachFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 731,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PanamaCityBeachFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2005      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Parkersburg, WV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ParkersburgWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 390,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ParkersburgWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 21,288,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ParkersburgWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 643,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ParkersburgWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 390,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ParkersburgWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 21,931,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ParkersburgWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,187,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ParkersburgWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1979      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Parkville, MD [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ParkvilleMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ParkvilleMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 16,071,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ParkvilleMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 274,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ParkvilleMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ParkvilleMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,345,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ParkvilleMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,729,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ParkvilleMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1980      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Parkville, MD 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ParkvilleMd2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 791,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ParkvilleMd2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 11,186,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ParkvilleMd2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 2,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ParkvilleMd2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 791,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ParkvilleMd2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 11,189,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ParkvilleMd2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,223,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ParkvilleMd2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1972      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Parkville, MD 3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ParkvilleMd3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ParkvilleMd3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 11,768,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ParkvilleMd3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ParkvilleMd3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ParkvilleMd3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 11,768,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ParkvilleMd3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,273,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ParkvilleMd3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1972      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Pennington, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PenningtonNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,380,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PenningtonNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 27,620,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PenningtonNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 607,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PenningtonNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,462,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PenningtonNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 28,145,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PenningtonNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,385,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PenningtonNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Pennsauken, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PennsaukenNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PennsaukenNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,780,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PennsaukenNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 179,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PennsaukenNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PennsaukenNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,959,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PennsaukenNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,297,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PennsaukenNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1985      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Petoskey, MI [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 5,900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PetoskeyMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 860,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PetoskeyMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,452,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PetoskeyMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PetoskeyMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 860,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PetoskeyMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,452,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PetoskeyMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,544,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PetoskeyMiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Philadelphia, PA 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhiladelphiaPa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhiladelphiaPa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 25,709,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhiladelphiaPa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 333,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhiladelphiaPa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhiladelphiaPa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 26,041,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhiladelphiaPa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,708,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhiladelphiaPa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1976      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Philadelphia, PA 3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhiladelphiaPa3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,930,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhiladelphiaPa3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,433,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhiladelphiaPa3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 3,373,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhiladelphiaPa3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,930,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhiladelphiaPa3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,806,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhiladelphiaPa3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,475,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhiladelphiaPa3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1952      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Philadelphia, PA 4 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhiladelphiaPa4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhiladelphiaPa4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 11,239,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhiladelphiaPa4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 65,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhiladelphiaPa4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhiladelphiaPa4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 11,304,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhiladelphiaPa4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,141,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhiladelphiaPa4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1965      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Philadelphia, PA 5 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhiladelphiaPa5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,810,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhiladelphiaPa5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 16,898,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhiladelphiaPa5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 32,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhiladelphiaPa5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,810,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhiladelphiaPa5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,931,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhiladelphiaPa5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,946,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhiladelphiaPa5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1972      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Phillipsburg, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhillipsburgNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhillipsburgNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 21,175,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhillipsburgNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 193,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhillipsburgNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhillipsburgNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 21,368,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhillipsburgNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,244,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhillipsburgNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1992      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Phillipsburg, NJ 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhillipsburgNj2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhillipsburgNj2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,114,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhillipsburgNj2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 38,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhillipsburgNj2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhillipsburgNj2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,151,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhillipsburgNj2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 856,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhillipsburgNj2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1905      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Plainview, NY [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlainviewNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 3,990,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlainviewNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 11,969,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlainviewNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 391,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlainviewNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 3,990,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlainviewNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,361,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlainviewNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,210,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlainviewNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1963      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Pottsville, PA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PottsvillePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 950,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PottsvillePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 26,964,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PottsvillePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 202,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PottsvillePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 950,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PottsvillePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 27,166,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PottsvillePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,833,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PottsvillePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1990      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Princeton, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PrincetonNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,730,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PrincetonNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 30,888,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PrincetonNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,150,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PrincetonNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,775,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PrincetonNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 31,992,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PrincetonNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,752,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PrincetonNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Quakertown, PA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_QuakertownPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,040,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_QuakertownPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 25,389,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_QuakertownPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 72,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_QuakertownPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,040,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_QuakertownPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 25,461,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_QuakertownPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,599,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_QuakertownPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1977      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Reading, PA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ReadingPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 980,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ReadingPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,906,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ReadingPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 102,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ReadingPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 980,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ReadingPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 20,008,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ReadingPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,073,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ReadingPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1994      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Red Bank, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RedBankNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,050,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RedBankNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 21,275,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RedBankNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 267,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RedBankNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,050,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RedBankNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 21,542,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RedBankNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,877,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RedBankNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Ridgewood, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RidgewoodNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RidgewoodNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 16,170,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RidgewoodNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 479,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RidgewoodNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RidgewoodNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,650,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RidgewoodNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,686,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RidgewoodNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1971      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Rockville Centre, NY [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockvilleCentreNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 4,290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockvilleCentreNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 20,310,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockvilleCentreNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 436,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockvilleCentreNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 4,290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockvilleCentreNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 20,746,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockvilleCentreNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,902,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockvilleCentreNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2002      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Rockville, CT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockvilleCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockvilleCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,835,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockvilleCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 76,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockvilleCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockvilleCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,911,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockvilleCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 688,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockvilleCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1960      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Rutland, VT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RutlandVtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,190,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RutlandVtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 23,655,354us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RutlandVtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 87,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RutlandVtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,190,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RutlandVtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 23,742,595us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RutlandVtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,466,762.61us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RutlandVtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1968      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Sanatoga, PA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanatogaPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 980,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanatogaPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 30,695,351us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanatogaPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 37,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanatogaPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 980,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanatogaPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 30,732,696.73us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanatogaPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,081,834.23us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanatogaPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1993      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Scott Depot, WV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ScottDepotWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ScottDepotWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,875,939us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ScottDepotWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 58,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ScottDepotWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ScottDepotWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,933,659us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ScottDepotWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 754,478.74us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ScottDepotWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1995      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Seaford, DE [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeafordDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 720,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeafordDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,028,835us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeafordDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 53,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeafordDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 720,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeafordDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,082,035us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeafordDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,539,010.74us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeafordDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1977      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Severna Park, MD [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SevernaParkMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,120,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SevernaParkMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 31,273,272.42us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SevernaParkMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 808,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SevernaParkMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,120,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SevernaParkMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 32,081,295.36us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SevernaParkMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,177,602.76us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SevernaParkMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1981      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Shepherdstown, WV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShepherdstownWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShepherdstownWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,805,937us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShepherdstownWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 14,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShepherdstownWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShepherdstownWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,819,484us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShepherdstownWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,391,388.17us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShepherdstownWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1990      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Shillington, PA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShillingtonPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,020,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShillingtonPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,568,977us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShillingtonPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 956,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShillingtonPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,020,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShillingtonPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 20,525,166.38us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShillingtonPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,083,676.94us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShillingtonPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1964      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Sissonville, WV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SissonvilleWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SissonvilleWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 23,948,397us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SissonvilleWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 54,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SissonvilleWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SissonvilleWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 24,002,672us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SissonvilleWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,434,312.91us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SissonvilleWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1981      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Sisterville, WV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SistervilleWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SistervilleWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SistervilleWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 242,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SistervilleWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SistervilleWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,642,468.43us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SistervilleWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 625,124.55us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SistervilleWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1986      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Somerset, MA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SomersetMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,010,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SomersetMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 29,576,510us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SomersetMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 152,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SomersetMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,010,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SomersetMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 29,728,142.95us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SomersetMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,990,133.74us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SomersetMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Southbury, CT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SouthburyCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,860,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SouthburyCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 23,613,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SouthburyCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 958,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SouthburyCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,860,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SouthburyCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 24,570,814.69us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SouthburyCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,380,859.85us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SouthburyCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Spencer, WV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SpencerWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 190,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SpencerWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,810,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SpencerWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 28,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SpencerWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 190,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SpencerWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,838,464us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SpencerWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 923,555.23us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SpencerWvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1988      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Spring House, PA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SpringHousePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SpringHousePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,780,286us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SpringHousePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 199,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SpringHousePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SpringHousePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,978,838.07us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SpringHousePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,207,276.4us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SpringHousePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1900      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | St. Charles, MD [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StCharlesMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 580,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StCharlesMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,554,632us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StCharlesMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 84,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StCharlesMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 580,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StCharlesMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,638,792.78us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StCharlesMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,640,762.02us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StCharlesMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Summit, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SummitNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 3,080,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SummitNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,152,491.47us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SummitNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SummitNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 3,080,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SummitNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,152,491.47us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SummitNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,448,835.98us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SummitNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Thomasville, GA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ThomasvilleGaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 530,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ThomasvilleGaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,898,518.1us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ThomasvilleGaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 436,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ThomasvilleGaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 530,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ThomasvilleGaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,334,750.09us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ThomasvilleGaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,304,186.62us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ThomasvilleGaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Tomball, TX 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TomballTx2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,050,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TomballTx2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TomballTx2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 671,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TomballTx2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,050,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TomballTx2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,971,270us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TomballTx2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,356,507.95us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TomballTx2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Towson, MD [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TowsonMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,180,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TowsonMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,280,400.01us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TowsonMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 194,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TowsonMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,180,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TowsonMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,474,636.29us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TowsonMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,433,506us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TowsonMdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1973      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Trumbull, CT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TrumbullCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 4,440,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TrumbullCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 43,384,174.76us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TrumbullCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TrumbullCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 4,440,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TrumbullCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 43,384,174.76us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TrumbullCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,238,821.53us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TrumbullCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Uniontown, PA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_UniontownPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 310,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_UniontownPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,816,954us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_UniontownPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 84,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_UniontownPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 310,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_UniontownPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,900,771us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_UniontownPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 738,310.72us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_UniontownPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1964      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Valley Falls, RI [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ValleyFallsRiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,080,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ValleyFallsRiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,432,751us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ValleyFallsRiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 10,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ValleyFallsRiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,080,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ValleyFallsRiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,442,528us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ValleyFallsRiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 808,439.22us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ValleyFallsRiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1975      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Voorhees, NJ 3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VoorheesNj3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VoorheesNj3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 37,299,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VoorheesNj3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 559,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VoorheesNj3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VoorheesNj3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 37,858,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VoorheesNj3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,898,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VoorheesNj3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1965      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Voorhees, NJ 4 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VoorheesNj4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VoorheesNj4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 26,040,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VoorheesNj4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 893,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VoorheesNj4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VoorheesNj4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 26,934,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VoorheesNj4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,765,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VoorheesNj4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1985      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Waconia, MN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WaconiaMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 890,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WaconiaMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,726,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WaconiaMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 4,495,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WaconiaMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 890,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WaconiaMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,221,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WaconiaMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,555,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WaconiaMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2005      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Wall, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WallNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,650,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WallNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 25,350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WallNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,958,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WallNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,690,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WallNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 27,268,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WallNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,236,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WallNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2003      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Wallingford, CT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WallingfordCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 490,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WallingfordCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 1,210,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WallingfordCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 59,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WallingfordCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 490,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WallingfordCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 1,269,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WallingfordCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 223,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WallingfordCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1962      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Warren, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WarrenNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WarrenNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 30,810,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WarrenNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 391,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WarrenNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WarrenNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 31,202,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WarrenNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,690,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WarrenNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Warwick, RI [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WarwickRiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,530,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WarwickRiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 18,564,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WarwickRiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 170,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WarwickRiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,530,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WarwickRiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,734,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WarwickRiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,984,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WarwickRiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1963      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Watchung, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WatchungNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,920,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WatchungNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 24,880,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WatchungNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 633,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WatchungNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,967,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WatchungNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 25,466,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WatchungNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,168,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WatchungNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | West Chester, PA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestChesterPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestChesterPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 29,237,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestChesterPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 122,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestChesterPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestChesterPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 29,359,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestChesterPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,026,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestChesterPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1974      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | West Orange, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestOrangeNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,280,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestOrangeNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,687,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestOrangeNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 182,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestOrangeNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,280,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestOrangeNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,869,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestOrangeNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,247,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestOrangeNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1963      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Westfield, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestfieldNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,270,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestfieldNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 16,589,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestfieldNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 497,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestfieldNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,270,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestfieldNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 17,086,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestfieldNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,921,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestfieldNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1970      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Westford, MA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestfordMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 920,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestfordMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,829,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestfordMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 206,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestfordMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 920,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestfordMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,034,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestfordMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,497,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestfordMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1993      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Wilkes Barre, PA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilkesBarrePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 610,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilkesBarrePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,842,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilkesBarrePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 119,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilkesBarrePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 610,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilkesBarrePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,961,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilkesBarrePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,492,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilkesBarrePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1986      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Wilkes Barre, PA 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilkesBarrePa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 570,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilkesBarrePa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,301,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilkesBarrePa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 44,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilkesBarrePa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 570,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilkesBarrePa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,345,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilkesBarrePa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 393,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilkesBarrePa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1992      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Williamsport, PA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilliamsportPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilliamsportPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,946,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilliamsportPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 373,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilliamsportPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilliamsportPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,319,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilliamsportPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 577,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilliamsportPaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1991      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Williamsport, PA 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilliamsportPa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 620,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilliamsportPa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,487,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilliamsportPa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 438,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilliamsportPa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 620,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilliamsportPa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,925,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilliamsportPa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,011,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilliamsportPa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1988      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Willow Grove, PA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WillowGrovePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WillowGrovePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,736,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WillowGrovePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 109,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WillowGrovePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WillowGrovePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,845,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WillowGrovePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,654,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WillowGrovePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1905      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Wilmington, DE [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilmingtonDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilmingtonDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,494,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilmingtonDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 57,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilmingtonDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilmingtonDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,551,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilmingtonDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,057,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilmingtonDeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1970      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Windsor, CT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WindsorCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WindsorCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,539,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WindsorCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,842,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WindsorCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WindsorCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,382,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WindsorCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,141,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WindsorCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1969      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Windsor, CT 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WindsorCt2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WindsorCt2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WindsorCt2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 944,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WindsorCt2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WindsorCt2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 1,544,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WindsorCt2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 247,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WindsorCt2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1974      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Wyncote, PA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WyncotePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WyncotePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 22,244,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WyncotePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 148,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WyncotePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WyncotePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 22,392,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WyncotePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,372,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WyncotePaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1960      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Wyncote, PA 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WyncotePa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,610,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WyncotePa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 21,256,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WyncotePa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 214,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WyncotePa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,610,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WyncotePa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 21,470,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WyncotePa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,170,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WyncotePa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1962      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Wyncote, PA 3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WyncotePa3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WyncotePa3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,811,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WyncotePa3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 32,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WyncotePa3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WyncotePa3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,843,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WyncotePa3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 827,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WyncotePa3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1889      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Agawam, MA 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AgawamMa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,230,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AgawamMa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,618,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AgawamMa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 593,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AgawamMa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,230,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AgawamMa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,211,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AgawamMa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,548,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AgawamMa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1975      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Agawam, MA 3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AgawamMa3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 930,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AgawamMa3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,304,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AgawamMa3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 293,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AgawamMa3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 930,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AgawamMa3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,596,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AgawamMa3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,643,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AgawamMa3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1970      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Agawam, MA 4 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AgawamMa4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 920,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AgawamMa4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,661,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AgawamMa4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 36,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AgawamMa4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 920,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AgawamMa4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,697,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AgawamMa4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,191,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AgawamMa4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1985      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Agawam, MA 5 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AgawamMa5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 920,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AgawamMa5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,562,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AgawamMa5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 45,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AgawamMa5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 920,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AgawamMa5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,607,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AgawamMa5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,181,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AgawamMa5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1967      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Brick, NJ 4 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrickNj4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 690,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrickNj4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,125,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrickNj4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 111,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrickNj4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 690,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrickNj4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 17,236,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrickNj4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,772,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrickNj4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Bridgewater, NJ 4 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BridgewaterNj4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BridgewaterNj4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 31,810,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BridgewaterNj4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 322,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BridgewaterNj4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BridgewaterNj4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 32,132,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BridgewaterNj4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,817,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BridgewaterNj4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Fall River, MA 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FallRiverMa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 920,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FallRiverMa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 34,715,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FallRiverMa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 208,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FallRiverMa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 920,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FallRiverMa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 34,923,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FallRiverMa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,551,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FallRiverMa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1993      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Fredericksburg, VA 4 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FredericksburgVa4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 590,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FredericksburgVa4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 28,611,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FredericksburgVa4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 35,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FredericksburgVa4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 590,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FredericksburgVa4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 28,646,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FredericksburgVa4Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,868,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_FredericksburgVa4Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1977      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Longwood, FL 3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,260,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_LongwoodFl3Member
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,445,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_LongwoodFl3Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_LongwoodFl3Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,260,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LongwoodFl3Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,445,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LongwoodFl3Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 602,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_LongwoodFl3Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2011      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Mcmurray, PA 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_McmurrayPa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,440,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_McmurrayPa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,805,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_McmurrayPa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,894,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_McmurrayPa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,440,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_McmurrayPa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 17,699,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_McmurrayPa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,486,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_McmurrayPa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2011      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Morton Grove, IL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MortonGroveIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MortonGroveIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,374,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MortonGroveIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 152,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MortonGroveIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MortonGroveIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,526,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MortonGroveIlMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,618,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_MortonGroveIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2011      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | West Bend, WI [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_WestBendWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 620,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestBendWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,790,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestBendWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 38,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestBendWiMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 620,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestBendWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 17,828,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_WestBendWiMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,417,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_WestBendWiMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2011      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Aventura, FL AVT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 4,540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_AvtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 33,985,702.53us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_AvtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 438,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AvtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 4,540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AvtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 34,423,556.33us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AvtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,146,398.57us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AvtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Boca Raton, FL BOR2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_Bor2Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,440,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_Bor2Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 31,048,092.63us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_Bor2Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 893,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_Bor2Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,440,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_Bor2Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 31,941,369.72us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_Bor2Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,954,614.45us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_Bor2Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1989      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Bradenton, FL BRD7 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_Brd7Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 480,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_Brd7Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,952,720.92us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_Brd7Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_Brd7Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 480,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_Brd7Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,952,720.92us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_Brd7Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 659,515.05us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_Brd7Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Brookfield, WI BKF [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BkfMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BkfMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 12,830,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_BkfMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_BkfMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BkfMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,830,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BkfMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 402,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BkfMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Cape Coral, FL CPC2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 9,065,034.72us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_Cpc2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 760,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_Cpc2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 18,868,354.77us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_Cpc2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_Cpc2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 760,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_Cpc2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,868,354.77us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_Cpc2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,263,338.86us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_Cpc2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Chicago, IL CHI2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_Chi2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_Chi2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,255,715us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_Chi2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_Chi2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_Chi2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,255,715us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_Chi2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,381,648.82us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_Chi2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2005      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Chicago, IL CHI3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 2,900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,016,229.25us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 17,016,229.25us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,237,956.62us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Clinton, MD CLI [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 2,330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 20,876,261.9us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 590,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 21,466,547.18us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,559,440.78us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1988      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Conyers, GA CYR [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 2,740,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,302,068.74us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 227,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,740,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,529,175.68us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,205,204.62us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Coppell, TX CPP [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 1,550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,386,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,386,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 317,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Cortland, NY CRT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 18,040,858.5us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 58,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,099,261.03us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,050,327.82us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Daphne, AL DPH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 2,880,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,670,100.63us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 127,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,880,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,796,639.63us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 634,961.49us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Edmond, OK EDM2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 410,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,387,653.24us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 410,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,387,653.24us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 654,359.72us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Fairhope, AL FHP [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 570,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,119,095.37us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 570,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,119,095.37us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 656,776.35us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1987      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Fayetteville, GA FYV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 560,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 12,665,241.25us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 309,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 560,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,973,966.12us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 778,039.45us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1994      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Flower Mound, TX FMD [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,414,196.75us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,414,196.75us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 507,043.18us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2012      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Fredericksburg, VA FRD5 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 3,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 22,016,347.76us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 59,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 22,074,909.84us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,284,463.94us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1992      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Granbury, TX GRB3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,940,068.15us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,340,068.15us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 249,527.65us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Greendale, WI GND [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,060,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 35,382,895.02us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 522,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,060,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 35,904,851.45us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,612,006.52us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1988      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Highland Park, IL HDP [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,820,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,831,727.24us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 187,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,820,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,019,116.31us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 871,724.61us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2012      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Hollywood, FL HLY [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,240,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,806,107.79us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 436,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_HlyMember
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,240,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,241,829.89us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 875,128.05us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Jackson, NJ JCS [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 6,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 26,404,534.18us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 2,193,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_JcsMember
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Carrying Amount of Land 6,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_JcsMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 28,597,567.53us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,611,463.29us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Jacksonville Beach, FL JKB [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,210,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 26,206,811.79us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 472,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,210,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 26,678,580.83us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,591,422.4us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Jupiter, FL JUP3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 3,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 47,452,853.62us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 563,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_Jup3Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 48,015,745.22us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,730,979.38us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2002      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Kennesaw, GA KNW [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 940,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,847,715.02us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 389,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_KnwMember
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Carrying Amount of Land 940,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_KnwMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 11,236,352.13us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_KnwMember
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Accumulated Depreciation 700,583.05us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Lake Barrington, IL LKB [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 3,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_LkbMember
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 66,178,721.94us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 46,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_LkbMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 66,225,082.92us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_LkbMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,772,476.91us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_LkbMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Lakewood Ranch, FL LWR [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_LwrMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 650,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,714,060.69us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_LwrMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,988,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_LwrMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 650,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_LwrMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,702,308.94us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_LwrMember
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Accumulated Depreciation 506,448.64us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2012      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Lakewood Ranch, FL LWR2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 7,190,912.28us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2005      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Lawrence, KS LWN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 3,604,430.62us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Land 250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Leicester, England LEI [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 30,822,707.1322us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 30,822,707.1322us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2010      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Lexington, KY LEX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,980,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 21,269,216.76us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,980,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 21,269,216.76us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 77,352.54us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Loganville, GA LOG [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 22,912,110.7us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 557,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 23,469,465.06us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,515,782.75us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Marietta, GA MRA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,270,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,519,139.6us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 446,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,270,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,965,588.74us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 669,969.19us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Naperville, IL NPR3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 12,237,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,237,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Norman, OK NRM2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 10,776,271.98us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,480,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 33,329,562.56us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,480,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 33,329,562.56us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,144,280.14us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1985      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Pella, IA PLL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 870,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,716,372.32us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 89,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 870,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,805,179.06us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 416,852.17us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2002      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Raleigh, NC RLH3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 24,942,014.52us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,530,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 59,589,070.89us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,530,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 59,589,070.89us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,538,310.34us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2002      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Raleigh, NC RLH4 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,580,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1988      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Rockville, MD RCV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 10,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,408,217.18us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1986      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Sand Springs, OK SSG [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 6,623,503.05us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,654,071.18us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,287,973.04us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2002      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Sarasota, FL SRS6 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,595,088.42us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Sarasota, FL SRS7 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 950,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 535,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 950,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,359,966.43us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 573,085.82us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Sarasota, FL SRS8 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 880,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,853,529.13us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 182,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 880,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,035,936.65us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 659,602.99us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1990      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Seaford, DE SEF2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 830,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,547,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 830,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,541,785.77us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 622,594.32us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1992      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Shelton, WA SHN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 530,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,049,010.06us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 296,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 530,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 17,344,971.94us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,192,372.92us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1989      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Silver Spring, MD SSP [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 1,250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,278,345.62us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 268,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,546,761.22us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 575,383.28us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1952      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Silver Spring, MD SSP2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,150,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,251,543.41us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 104,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,150,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,355,618.27us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 689,837.26us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1968      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Superior, WI SUP [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,020,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,735,054us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 79,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,814,126us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2009      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2010      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Takoma Park, MD TKP [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,135,598.75us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,135,598.75us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1962      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Topeka, KS TPK [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Carrying Amount of Land 260,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,711,724.52us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2011      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Walkersville, MD WKV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,650,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,103,236.76us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,650,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,103,236.76us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,106,708.19us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Waukee, IA WKE [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,870,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 31,877,603.17us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,075,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,870,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 32,952,711.14us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,970,732.56us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Webster, NY WBT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,968,225.12us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 36,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,004,492.52us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 538,266.39us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Webster, NY WBT2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 21,127,047.47us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 9,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 21,135,906.94us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,214,044.75us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | West Chester, PA WEC4 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 42,257,839.11us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 595,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_Wec4Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 42,852,465.68us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,123,739.84us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | West Chester, PA WEC5 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 11,894,401.57us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 5,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 11,899,124.07us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 887,516.08us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2002      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Wichita, KS WTA3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 13,594,201.37us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 630,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,747,469.46us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 630,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,747,469.46us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,280,896.44us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Willard, OH WLD [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 730,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,447,015.17us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 730,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,447,015.17us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_WldMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 477,835.1us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_WldMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2012      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Winter Garden, FL WGD [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,937,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,937,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 435,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Tulsa, OK TUL5 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,320,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,087,178.24us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,320,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,087,178.24us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 641,180.5us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2012      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Webster Grove, MO WEG [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,790,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,424,961.23us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,790,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,424,961.23us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 957,543.7us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2012      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Wichita, KS WTA2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 1,760,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,007,248.27us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,760,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,007,248.27us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,517,727.95us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2012      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Carrollton, TX CRL3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 4,280,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 31,444,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 734,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 4,280,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 32,178,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 829,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2010      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Carson City, NV CSC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 520,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,238,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 39,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 520,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,277,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 253,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Cobham, EN COB [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 12,385,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 31,556,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 12,385,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 31,556,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,170,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Grass Valley, CA GVL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 4,340,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 260,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,667,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 55,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 260,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,722,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 212,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Haddonfield, NJ HDF2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 2,480,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,480,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,480,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1900      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Hanford, EN HNF [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,745,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 12,411,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,745,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,411,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 465,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2012      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Hatfield, EN HTF [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,692,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,504,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_HtfMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,504,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2012      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Herne Bay, EN HBY [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,399,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2011      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Hinckley, EN HNK [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Kirkstall, EN KKS [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,077,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 11,888,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Loxley, EN SFD [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 1,729,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,729,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,784,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 982,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2008      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Mahwah, NJ MAH2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Carrying Amount of Land 785,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1900      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Monclova, OH MNC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 1,750,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 12,243,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,750,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Accumulated Depreciation 670,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Nashville, TN NSV4 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Carrying Amount of Land 4,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | New Moston, EN NMT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,869,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,529,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 216,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2010      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Newcastle Under Lyme, EN NCL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,402,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,141,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,402,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,141,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 267,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2010      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Northampton, EN NHT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 6,543,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 21,906,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 6,543,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 21,906,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 851,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2011      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Nuneaton, EN NNT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 4,198,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 11,342,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 4,198,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 11,342,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 424,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2011      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Nuthall, EN NUT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 3,155,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,177,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,155,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,177,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 498,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2011      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Rugeley, EN RUG [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,399,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_RugMember
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 12,958,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_RugMember
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,399,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,958,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 513,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_RugMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2010      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Voorhees, NJ VRH5 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 3,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_Vrh5Member
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 25,950,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_Vrh5Member
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_Vrh5Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 25,950,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_Vrh5Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Voorhees, NJ VRH7 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 3,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_Vrh7Member
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 24,312,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_Vrh7Member
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_Vrh7Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 24,312,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 906,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_Vrh7Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Weston Super Mare, EN WPM [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 3,178,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_WpmMember
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,908,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_WpmMember
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,178,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_WpmMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,908,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 335,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_WpmMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2011      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Witherwack, EN WWK [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,192,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,731,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,192,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_WwkMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,731,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 328,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_WwkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Wolverhampton, EN WLV2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,986,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_Wlv2Member
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,432,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,986,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_Wlv2Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,432,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 320,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_Wlv2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2011      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Abilene, TX ABL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_AblMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 950,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_AblMember
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 20,987,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_AblMember
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_AblMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 950,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_AblMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 20,987,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_AblMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 283,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_AblMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Abilene, TX ABL2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_Abl2Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 990,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_Abl2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,187,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_Abl2Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_Abl2Member
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Carrying Amount of Land 990,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_Abl2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,187,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 56,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_Abl2Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1985      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Alexandria, IN ALE [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_AleMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 190,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_AleMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,495,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AleMember
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Carrying Amount of Land 190,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,495,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 24,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1982      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Avon, IN AVN3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Land 900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Burnaby, BC BBY [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 9,998,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Accumulated Depreciation 59,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Brecksville, OH BEC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 990,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Land 990,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,363,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 70,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2011      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Bracknell, UKJ BKN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Brooks, AB BKS [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 2,478,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 448,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,906,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 448,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,906,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 21,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Brookville, IN BKV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Land 300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,467,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 47,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1987      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Burlington, NC BLT3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 810,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 11,263,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 810,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 11,263,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 41,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2012      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Braintree, UKH BTE [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,789,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 91,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Bremerton, WA BTN3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 590,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,899,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 590,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,899,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 60,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Beverly Hills, CA BVH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 9,623,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 6,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,385,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 6,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_BvhMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,385,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_BvhMember
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Accumulated Depreciation 57,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Bexleyheath, UKI BXH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 4,736,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,646,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 4,736,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,646,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 31,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Calgary, AB CAL6 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 20,989,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,793,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 51,019,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,793,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 51,019,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 174,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1971      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Calgary, AB CAL7 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 34,791,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 5,450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 83,741,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 5,450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 83,741,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 283,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Canton, NC CAT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 130,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,357,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 130,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,357,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 19,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1952      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Cape May Court House, NJ CCH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 1,440,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,002,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,440,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 17,002,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 265,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1990      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Congleton, UKD CGL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,570,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,465,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,570,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,465,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 15,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1994      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Chatham, VA CHH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 320,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,046,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 320,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,046,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 55,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Chapel Hill, NC CHP2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 470,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,512,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 470,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,512,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 29,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Clevedon, UKK CLD [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,583,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 21,374,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,583,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 21,374,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 188,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1994      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Clayton, NC CLY [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 520,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,741,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 520,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,741,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 54,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Camrose, AB CMR [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 16,885,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,215,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 24,667,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,215,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 24,667,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 80,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2011      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Chester, VA CTF [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,320,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 18,136,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,320,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,136,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Castleton, IN CTT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 920,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,144,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 920,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,144,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 57,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Crawfordsville, IN CWF [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 720,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,239,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 720,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 17,239,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 64,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Danville, VA DNV2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 240,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,440,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 240,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_Dnv2Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,440,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 33,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_Dnv2Member
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Drayton Valley, AB DYV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 733,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_DyvMember
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 12,165,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 733,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_DyvMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,165,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 39,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_DyvMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2012      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Eastbourne, UKJ EBN2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 5,141,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 30,858,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 5,141,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_Ebn2Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 30,858,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 268,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_Ebn2Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Edmond, OK EDM3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,810,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,849,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,810,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_Edm3Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,849,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_Edm3Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 207,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_Edm3Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1985      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | El Paso, TX ELP8 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,420,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_Elp8Member
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 12,394,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,420,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_Elp8Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,394,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_Elp8Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 176,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_Elp8Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Emeryville, CA EMY [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_EmyMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,560,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_EmyMember
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 57,491,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,560,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_EmyMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 57,491,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 739,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_EmyMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2010      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Farnborough, UKJ FBG [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,570,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_FbgMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,244,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_FbgMember
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_FbgMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,570,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FbgMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,244,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FbgMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 16,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FbgMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1980      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Farmington, MI FMT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,615,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 570,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,615,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 25,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1974      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Fredericksburg, VA FRD6 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 1,130,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 23,214,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2010      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Greensboro, NC GSB3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,634,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Hockessin, DE HCK [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 1,120,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,308,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,120,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,308,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 79,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1992      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | High River, AB HHR [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 1,138,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 40,937,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,138,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 40,937,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 132,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2014      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Howell, MI HOW [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 630,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 630,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 31,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1964      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Harrow, UKI HRW [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 9,347,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,437,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 9,347,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,437,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 24,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Indianapolis, IN IND4 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 870,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,696,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 870,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,696,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 56,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2014      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Indianapolis, IN IND5 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 890,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 18,781,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 890,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,781,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 38,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2014      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Kokomo, IN KKM2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 710,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 16,052,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 710,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,052,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 61,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2014      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Lexington, KY LEX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 1,980,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 21,269,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,980,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 21,269,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Lakewood, CO LKE [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 28,091,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,160,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 28,091,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 614,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2010      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Lillington, NC LLT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 470,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Land 470,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 17,588,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 64,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Lillington, NC LLT2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 16,460,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,460,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 57,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Lethbridge, AB LTB [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 1,844,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,448,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,280,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,448,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_LtbMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,280,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 15,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_LtbMember
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2003      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Lethbridge, AB LTB2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 3,720,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 737,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_Ltb2Member
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,178,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 737,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_Ltb2Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,178,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 26,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2004      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Livermore, CA LVM [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 10,065,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 4,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_LvmMember
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 24,996,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 4,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_LvmMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 24,996,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 106,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_LvmMember
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1974      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Lynchburg, VA LYB [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 340,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_LybMember
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 16,122,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 340,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_LybMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,122,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_LybMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 60,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_LybMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Manchester, NH MCH2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,080,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_Mch2Member
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,059,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,080,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_Mch2Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,059,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 16,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1978      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Medicine Hat, AB MEH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 2,990,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_MehMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,112,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_MehMember
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,554,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,112,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_MehMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,554,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 24,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_MehMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Moyock, NC MOY [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_MoyMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 280,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_MoyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,387,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_MoyMember
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_MoyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 280,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MoyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,387,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MoyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 48,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MoyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2011      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Marlborough, UKK MRB [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Marion, IN MRN3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2012      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Marion, IN MRN4 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1976      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Mishawaka, IN MSW [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Mount Vernon, WA MTV2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 21,842,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 102,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1987      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Newcastle-under-Lyme, UKG NCL2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 1,421,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,991,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,421,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,991,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Northampton, UKF NHT2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,901,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,542,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,901,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 44,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2014      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Nuthall, UKF NTG [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 2,056,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,908,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,056,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,908,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 21,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2014      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Oakland, CA OAK2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Carrying Amount of Land 4,760,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,143,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 214,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2002      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Oklahoma City, OK OKL6 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Olds, AB OLD [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 265,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,172,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 265,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,172,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Ponoka, AB PON [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 4,464,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 498,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 12,920,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 498,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,920,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 41,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2010      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | San Angelo, TX SAO2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,050,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 24,689,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,050,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 24,689,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | South Bend, IN SBD [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 670,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_Sbd1Member
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,770,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 670,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 17,770,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2014      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Scranton, PA SCN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 440,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_ScnMember
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,618,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 440,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_ScnMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 17,618,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 62,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_ScnMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2005      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Scranton, PA SCN2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 320,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_Scn2Member
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 12,150,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 320,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_Scn2Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,150,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 43,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_Scn2Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | South Croydon, UKI SCY [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,116,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_ScyMember
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,648,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_ScyMember
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,116,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_ScyMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,648,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 6,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Stamford, UKF SMF [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,298,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_SmfMember
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,089,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,298,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_SmfMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,089,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 10,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_SmfMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Smithfield, NC SMT3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 360,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_Smt3Member
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,220,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_Smt3Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 360,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_Smt3Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,220,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_Smt3Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 29,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_Smt3Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Springfield, IL SPF4 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 990,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_Spf4Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,378,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_Spf4Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 990,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_Spf4Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,378,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 48,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_Spf4Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Spruce Pine, NC SPP [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SppMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 240,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_SppMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,340,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_SppMember
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_SppMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 240,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SppMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,340,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SppMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 31,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SppMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2012      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Sittingbourne, UKJ STB [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Stroudsburg, PA STR [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Carrying Amount of Land 340,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2011      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Virginia Beach, VA VIR2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1993      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Wabash, IN WAB [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Wichita Falls, TX WCH3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Accumulated Depreciation 347,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Westfield, IN WEF [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Accumulated Depreciation 60,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Wilmington, NC WLN2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Land 400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2012      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Wilmington, NC WLN3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Carrying Amount of Land 610,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2011      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Winter Haven, FL WNH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 710,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Land 710,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,038,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 141,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1979      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Wetaskiwin, AB WTK [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 401,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 24,015,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 401,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 24,015,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 77,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2005      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Westworth Village, TX WWV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,060,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 31,296,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,060,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_WwvMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 31,296,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WwvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 69,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WwvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2014      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Youngsville, NC YNG [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_YngMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 380,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_YngMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,694,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_YngMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_YngMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 380,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_YngMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,694,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_YngMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 38,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_YngMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | York, UKE YRK [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_YrkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 3,739,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_YrkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,437,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_YrkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_YrkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 3,739,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_YrkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,437,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_YrkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 24,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_YrkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Lafayette, LA 1167 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LafayetteLa1167Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,928,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LafayetteLa1167Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,483,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LafayetteLa1167Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 25,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LafayetteLa1167Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,928,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LafayetteLa1167Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,509,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LafayetteLa1167Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,246,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LafayetteLa1167Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1993      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Tulsa, OK 1168 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TulsaOk1168Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 3,003,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TulsaOk1168Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,025,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TulsaOk1168Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 20,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TulsaOk1168Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 3,003,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TulsaOk1168Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,045,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TulsaOk1168Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,603,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TulsaOk1168Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1992      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Lakeway, TX 1331 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LakewayTx1331Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 5,142,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LakewayTx1331Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 18,574,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LakewayTx1331Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 2,001,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LakewayTx1331Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 5,142,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LakewayTx1331Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 20,575,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LakewayTx1331Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 662,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LakewayTx1331Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2011      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Boardman, OH BDM [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoardmanOhBdmMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoardmanOhBdmMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 12,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoardmanOhBdmMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoardmanOhBdmMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoardmanOhBdmMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoardmanOhBdmMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,585,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoardmanOhBdmMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2008      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2008      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Bowling Green, KY BLG [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BowlingGreenKyBlgMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 3,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BowlingGreenKyBlgMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 26,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BowlingGreenKyBlgMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 149,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BowlingGreenKyBlgMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 3,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BowlingGreenKyBlgMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 26,849,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BowlingGreenKyBlgMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,409,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BowlingGreenKyBlgMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2008      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1992      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Bellingham, MA BLH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BellinghamMaBlhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 9,270,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BellinghamMaBlhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BellinghamMaBlhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BellinghamMaBlhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 9,270,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BellinghamMaBlhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BellinghamMaBlhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BellinghamMaBlhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1900      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Fresno, CA FNO [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FresnoCaFnoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FresnoCaFnoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 35,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FresnoCaFnoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 118,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FresnoCaFnoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FresnoCaFnoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 35,918,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FresnoCaFnoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,905,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FresnoCaFnoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2008      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1991      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Folsom, CA FOL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FolsomCaFolMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FolsomCaFolMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 33,600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FolsomCaFolMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FolsomCaFolMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,582,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FolsomCaFolMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 32,018,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FolsomCaFolMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,170,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FolsomCaFolMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Fort Wayne, IN FTW2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FortWayneInFtw2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 170,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FortWayneInFtw2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,232,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FortWayneInFtw2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FortWayneInFtw2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 170,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FortWayneInFtw2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,232,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FortWayneInFtw2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,686,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FortWayneInFtw2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Fort Worth, TX FWT2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FortWorthTxFwt2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FortWorthTxFwt2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,615,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FortWorthTxFwt2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 5,086,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FortWorthTxFwt2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FortWorthTxFwt2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,701,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FortWorthTxFwt2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,818,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FortWorthTxFwt2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2011      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Greenfield, WI GFD2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenfieldWiGfd2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenfieldWiGfd2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,204,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenfieldWiGfd2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenfieldWiGfd2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 890,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenfieldWiGfd2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,314,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenfieldWiGfd2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 484,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenfieldWiGfd2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1983      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Las Vegas, NV LSV7 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LasVegasNvLsv7Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 580,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LasVegasNvLsv7Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 23,420,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LasVegasNvLsv7Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LasVegasNvLsv7Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 580,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LasVegasNvLsv7Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 23,420,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LasVegasNvLsv7Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,088,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LasVegasNvLsv7Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2002      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Mechanicsburg, PA MCS [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MechanicsburgPaMcsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MechanicsburgPaMcsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 16,650,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MechanicsburgPaMcsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MechanicsburgPaMcsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MechanicsburgPaMcsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,650,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MechanicsburgPaMcsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,520,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MechanicsburgPaMcsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1971      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Mount Pleasant, SC MPL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MountPleasantScMplMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MountPleasantScMplMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MountPleasantScMplMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MountPleasantScMplMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 4,052,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MountPleasantScMplMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,149,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MountPleasantScMplMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 662,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MountPleasantScMplMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1985      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Meridian, ID MRD [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MeridianIdMrdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 3,600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MeridianIdMrdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 20,802,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MeridianIdMrdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 251,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MeridianIdMrdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 3,600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MeridianIdMrdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 21,053,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MeridianIdMrdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 6,584,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MeridianIdMrdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2008      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Marlton, NJ MRL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MarltonNjMrlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MarltonNjMrlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 38,300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MarltonNjMrlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,830,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MarltonNjMrlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MarltonNjMrlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 40,130,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MarltonNjMrlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 6,384,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MarltonNjMrlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2008      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1994      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Merrillville, IN MRV2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerrillvilleInMrv2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerrillvilleInMrv2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 11,699,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerrillvilleInMrv2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 154,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerrillvilleInMrv2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerrillvilleInMrv2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 11,853,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerrillvilleInMrv2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,132,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerrillvilleInMrv2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2008      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Rochdale, MA RCD2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RochdaleMaRcd2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RochdaleMaRcd2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RochdaleMaRcd2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RochdaleMaRcd2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 690,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RochdaleMaRcd2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,410,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RochdaleMaRcd2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 246,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RochdaleMaRcd2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1994      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Richmond, VA RMD3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_RichmondVaRmd3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 12,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RichmondVaRmd3Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_RichmondVaRmd3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RichmondVaRmd3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 11,750,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RichmondVaRmd3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 440,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RichmondVaRmd3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1989      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Ruston, LA RST2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RustonLaRst2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 710,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RustonLaRst2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,790,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RustonLaRst2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RustonLaRst2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 710,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RustonLaRst2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,790,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RustonLaRst2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 970,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RustonLaRst2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1988      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | San Bernardino, CA SBN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanBernardinoCaSbnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 3,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanBernardinoCaSbnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanBernardinoCaSbnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 687,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanBernardinoCaSbnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 3,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanBernardinoCaSbnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,987,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanBernardinoCaSbnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,366,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanBernardinoCaSbnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2008      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1993      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | San Diego, CA SDG [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanDiegoCaSdgMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanDiegoCaSdgMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 22,003,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanDiegoCaSdgMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,845,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanDiegoCaSdgMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanDiegoCaSdgMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 23,848,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanDiegoCaSdgMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,683,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanDiegoCaSdgMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2008      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1992      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | San Antonio, TX SNN9 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanAntonioTxSnn9Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanAntonioTxSnn9Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,303,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanAntonioTxSnn9Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanAntonioTxSnn9Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanAntonioTxSnn9Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 17,303,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanAntonioTxSnn9Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,084,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanAntonioTxSnn9Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Springfield, IL SPF3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SpringfieldIlSpf3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SpringfieldIlSpf3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SpringfieldIlSpf3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SpringfieldIlSpf3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 768,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SpringfieldIlSpf3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,332,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SpringfieldIlSpf3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 409,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SpringfieldIlSpf3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2010      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Sarasota, FL SRS5 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SarasotaFlSrs5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 3,360,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SarasotaFlSrs5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,140,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SarasotaFlSrs5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SarasotaFlSrs5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 3,360,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SarasotaFlSrs5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,140,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SarasotaFlSrs5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,673,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SarasotaFlSrs5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Pewaukee, WI WAU [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PewaukeeWiWauMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 4,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PewaukeeWiWauMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 20,669,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PewaukeeWiWauMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PewaukeeWiWauMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 4,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PewaukeeWiWauMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 20,669,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PewaukeeWiWauMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,342,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PewaukeeWiWauMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Albertville, AL ALV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 2,015,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlbertvilleAlAlvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 170,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlbertvilleAlAlvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,203,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlbertvilleAlAlvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 174,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlbertvilleAlAlvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 176,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlbertvilleAlAlvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,371,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlbertvilleAlAlvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,046,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlbertvilleAlAlvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Apple Valley, CA APV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 10,632,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AppleValleyCaApvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 480,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AppleValleyCaApvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 16,639,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AppleValleyCaApvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 84,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AppleValleyCaApvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 486,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AppleValleyCaApvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,716,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AppleValleyCaApvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,911,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AppleValleyCaApvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Atlanta, GA ATL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 7,557,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AtlantaGaAtlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,058,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AtlantaGaAtlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,914,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AtlantaGaAtlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,101,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AtlantaGaAtlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,080,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AtlantaGaAtlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,993,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AtlantaGaAtlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 10,585,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AtlantaGaAtlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1997      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Austin, TX ATN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 18,729,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AustinTxAtnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 880,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AustinTxAtnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,520,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AustinTxAtnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,152,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AustinTxAtnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 885,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AustinTxAtnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,667,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AustinTxAtnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,438,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AustinTxAtnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1999      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Bellingham, WA BGH2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 8,580,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BellinghamWaBgh2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BellinghamWaBgh2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,861,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BellinghamWaBgh2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 121,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BellinghamWaBgh2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,507,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BellinghamWaBgh2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,975,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BellinghamWaBgh2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,380,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BellinghamWaBgh2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Citrus Heights, CA CTH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 14,747,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CitrusHeightsCaCthMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CitrusHeightsCaCthMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 31,876,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CitrusHeightsCaCthMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 507,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CitrusHeightsCaCthMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CitrusHeightsCaCthMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 32,383,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CitrusHeightsCaCthMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,577,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CitrusHeightsCaCthMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Florence, AL FLR2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 7,085,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FlorenceAlFlr2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 353,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FlorenceAlFlr2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,049,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FlorenceAlFlr2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 160,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FlorenceAlFlr2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 385,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FlorenceAlFlr2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,177,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FlorenceAlFlr2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,197,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FlorenceAlFlr2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Fremont, CA FRE [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 19,186,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FremontCaFreMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 3,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FremontCaFreMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 25,300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FremontCaFreMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,821,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FremontCaFreMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 3,456,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FremontCaFreMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 27,065,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FremontCaFreMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 6,710,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FremontCaFreMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2005      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1987      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Gig Harbor, WA GGH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 5,358,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GigHarborWaGghMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,560,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GigHarborWaGghMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,947,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GigHarborWaGghMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 61,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GigHarborWaGghMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,583,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GigHarborWaGghMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,986,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GigHarborWaGghMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,636,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GigHarborWaGghMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1994      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Gardnerville, NV GRD [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 12,399,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GardnervilleNvGrdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,143,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GardnervilleNvGrdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,831,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GardnervilleNvGrdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 776,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GardnervilleNvGrdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,164,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GardnervilleNvGrdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 11,586,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GardnervilleNvGrdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 8,166,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GardnervilleNvGrdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1998      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Hemet, CA HEM2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 13,550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HemetCaHem2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,890,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HemetCaHem2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 28,606,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HemetCaHem2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 650,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HemetCaHem2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,899,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HemetCaHem2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 29,247,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HemetCaHem2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 7,377,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HemetCaHem2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1989      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Hemet, CA HEM3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HemetCaHem3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HemetCaHem3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,630,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HemetCaHem3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 723,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HemetCaHem3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HemetCaHem3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,353,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HemetCaHem3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,426,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HemetCaHem3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1988      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Kennewick, WA KNK [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KennewickWaKnkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,820,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KennewickWaKnkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 27,991,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KennewickWaKnkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 255,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KennewickWaKnkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,834,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KennewickWaKnkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 28,232,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KennewickWaKnkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,715,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KennewickWaKnkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1994      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Lancaster, CA LAN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 9,917,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LancasterCaLanMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LancasterCaLanMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,295,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LancasterCaLanMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 574,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LancasterCaLanMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 712,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LancasterCaLanMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,857,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LancasterCaLanMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,947,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LancasterCaLanMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Manteca, CA MCA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 6,091,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MantecaCaMcaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MantecaCaMcaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 12,125,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MantecaCaMcaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,451,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MantecaCaMcaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,312,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MantecaCaMcaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,564,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MantecaCaMcaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,561,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MantecaCaMcaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2005      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1986      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Mesa, AZ MES [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 6,015,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MesaAzMesMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 950,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MesaAzMesMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,087,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MesaAzMesMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 713,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MesaAzMesMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 950,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MesaAzMesMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MesaAzMesMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,787,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MesaAzMesMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1999      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Mill Creek, WA MLC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 28,094,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MillCreekWaMlcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 10,150,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MillCreekWaMlcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 60,274,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MillCreekWaMlcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 614,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MillCreekWaMlcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 10,179,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MillCreekWaMlcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 60,859,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MillCreekWaMlcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 12,788,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MillCreekWaMlcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Monroe, WA MON [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonroeWaMonMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,560,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonroeWaMonMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 34,460,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonroeWaMonMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 304,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonroeWaMonMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,584,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonroeWaMonMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 34,741,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonroeWaMonMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,841,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MonroeWaMonMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1994      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Marysville, WA MRS2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 4,513,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MarysvilleWaMrs2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 620,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MarysvilleWaMrs2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,780,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MarysvilleWaMrs2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 329,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MarysvilleWaMrs2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 620,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MarysvilleWaMrs2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,109,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MarysvilleWaMrs2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,570,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MarysvilleWaMrs2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2003      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Naples, FL NPL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NaplesFlNplMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,716,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NaplesFlNplMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,306,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NaplesFlNplMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,878,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NaplesFlNplMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,738,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NaplesFlNplMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,162,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NaplesFlNplMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 16,523,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NaplesFlNplMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1997      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Olympia, WA OLM [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 6,619,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OlympiaWaOlmMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OlympiaWaOlmMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 16,689,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OlympiaWaOlmMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 158,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OlympiaWaOlmMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 553,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OlympiaWaOlmMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,844,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OlympiaWaOlmMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,827,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OlympiaWaOlmMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1995      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Puyallup, WA PYL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 11,296,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PuyallupWaPylMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,150,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PuyallupWaPylMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 20,776,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PuyallupWaPylMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 201,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PuyallupWaPylMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,156,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PuyallupWaPylMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 20,971,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PuyallupWaPylMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,652,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PuyallupWaPylMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1985      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Rohnert Park, CA ROP [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 13,494,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RohnertParkCaRopMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 6,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RohnertParkCaRopMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 18,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RohnertParkCaRopMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,498,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RohnertParkCaRopMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 6,546,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RohnertParkCaRopMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 20,152,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RohnertParkCaRopMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,062,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RohnertParkCaRopMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2005      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1986      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Roswell, GA RWL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 7,759,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RoswellGaRwlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,107,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RoswellGaRwlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,627,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RoswellGaRwlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 793,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RoswellGaRwlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,114,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RoswellGaRwlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,413,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RoswellGaRwlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 7,337,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RoswellGaRwlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1997      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Sacramento, CA SAC2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 10,125,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SacramentoCaSac2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 940,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SacramentoCaSac2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,781,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SacramentoCaSac2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 96,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SacramentoCaSac2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 952,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SacramentoCaSac2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,865,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SacramentoCaSac2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,588,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SacramentoCaSac2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1978      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | San Ramon, CA SAR [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 8,827,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanRamonCaSarMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanRamonCaSarMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,488,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanRamonCaSarMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 52,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanRamonCaSarMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,435,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanRamonCaSarMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 17,535,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanRamonCaSarMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,918,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanRamonCaSarMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1989      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Seattle, WA SEA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 7,563,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWaSeaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 5,190,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWaSeaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWaSeaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWaSeaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 5,199,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWaSeaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,692,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWaSeaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,615,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWaSeaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1962      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Seattle, WA SEA2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 7,055,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWaSea2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 3,420,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWaSea2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,555,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWaSea2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 138,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWaSea2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 3,420,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWaSea2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,693,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWaSea2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,938,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWaSea2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Seattle, WA SEA3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWaSea3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,630,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWaSea3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,257,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWaSea3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 36,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWaSea3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,630,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWaSea3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,293,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWaSea3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,019,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWaSea3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2003      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Seattle, WA SEA4 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 28,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWaSea4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 10,670,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWaSea4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 37,291,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWaSea4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 157,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWaSea4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 10,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWaSea4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 37,418,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWaSea4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 8,809,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWaSea4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2005      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Sonoma, CA SON [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 14,705,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SonomaCaSonMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SonomaCaSonMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 18,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SonomaCaSonMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,374,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SonomaCaSonMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,109,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SonomaCaSonMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,764,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SonomaCaSonMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,887,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SonomaCaSonMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2005      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1988      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Stanwood, WA STA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StanwoodWaStaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,260,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StanwoodWaStaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 28,474,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StanwoodWaStaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 277,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StanwoodWaStaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,283,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StanwoodWaStaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 28,728,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StanwoodWaStaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,110,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StanwoodWaStaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Stockton, CA STT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 2,914,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StocktonCaSttMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,280,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StocktonCaSttMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,983,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StocktonCaSttMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 285,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StocktonCaSttMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,372,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StocktonCaSttMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,176,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StocktonCaSttMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,273,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StocktonCaSttMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1988      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Vacaville, CA VAC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 13,876,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VacavilleCaVacMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VacavilleCaVacMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VacavilleCaVacMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,417,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VacavilleCaVacMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VacavilleCaVacMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,517,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VacavilleCaVacMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,650,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VacavilleCaVacMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2005      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1987      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Vancouver, WA VCR [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 11,632,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VancouverWaVcrMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,820,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VancouverWaVcrMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,042,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VancouverWaVcrMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 99,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VancouverWaVcrMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,821,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VancouverWaVcrMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,140,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VancouverWaVcrMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,375,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VancouverWaVcrMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Vallejo, CA VLE [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 13,892,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VallejoCaVleMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 4,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VallejoCaVleMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 18,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VallejoCaVleMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,841,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VallejoCaVleMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 4,030,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VallejoCaVleMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,812,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VallejoCaVleMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,970,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VallejoCaVleMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2005      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1989      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Vallejo, CA VLE2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 7,361,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VallejoCaVle2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VallejoCaVle2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,407,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VallejoCaVle2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 152,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VallejoCaVle2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VallejoCaVle2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,559,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VallejoCaVle2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,930,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VallejoCaVle2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1990      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Whittier, CA WHT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 10,830,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WhittierCaWhtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 4,470,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WhittierCaWhtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 22,151,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WhittierCaWhtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 301,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WhittierCaWhtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 4,483,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WhittierCaWhtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 22,439,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WhittierCaWhtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,393,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WhittierCaWhtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1988      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Burleson, TX BRS3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlesonTxBrs3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 3,150,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlesonTxBrs3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,437,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlesonTxBrs3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlesonTxBrs3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 3,150,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlesonTxBrs3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,437,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlesonTxBrs3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 146,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlesonTxBrs3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2014      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Gambrills, MD GMB [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GambrillsMdGmbMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GambrillsMdGmbMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 16,726,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GambrillsMdGmbMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GambrillsMdGmbMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GambrillsMdGmbMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,726,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GambrillsMdGmbMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 283,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GambrillsMdGmbMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2014      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | Moorestown, NJ MST3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MoorestownNjMst3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 6,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MoorestownNjMst3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 23,875,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MoorestownNjMst3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MoorestownNjMst3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 6,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MoorestownNjMst3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 23,875,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MoorestownNjMst3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 414,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MoorestownNjMst3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2014      
Seniors Housing Triple-net [Member] | The Villages, FL TVG [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TheVillagesFlTvgMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,035,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TheVillagesFlTvgMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,446,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TheVillagesFlTvgMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TheVillagesFlTvgMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,035,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TheVillagesFlTvgMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,446,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TheVillagesFlTvgMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 205,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TheVillagesFlTvgMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingTripleNetMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2014      
Medical Facility [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 609,268,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 330,140,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,143,585,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 142,524,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 345,036,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,271,211,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 648,096,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Medical Facility [Member] | Arcadia, CA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ArcadiaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 5,408,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ArcadiaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 23,219,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ArcadiaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 2,636,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ArcadiaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 5,618,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ArcadiaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 25,644,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ArcadiaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 6,927,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ArcadiaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1984      
Medical Facility [Member] | Atlanta, GA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AtlantaGaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 4,931,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AtlantaGaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 18,720,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AtlantaGaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 4,611,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AtlantaGaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 5,348,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AtlantaGaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 22,914,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AtlantaGaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 7,351,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AtlantaGaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1991      
Medical Facility [Member] | Bartlett, TN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 7,895,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BartlettTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 187,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BartlettTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,015,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BartlettTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,619,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BartlettTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 187,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BartlettTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,634,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BartlettTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,657,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BartlettTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2004      
Medical Facility [Member] | Boynton Beach Fl One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoyntonBeachFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,048,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoyntonBeachFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,692,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoyntonBeachFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 502,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoyntonBeachFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,048,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoyntonBeachFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,194,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoyntonBeachFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,745,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoyntonBeachFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1995      
Medical Facility [Member] | Boynton Beach Fl Two [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoyntonBeachFlTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,048,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoyntonBeachFlTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,403,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoyntonBeachFlTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,078,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoyntonBeachFlTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,048,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoyntonBeachFlTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,480,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoyntonBeachFlTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,564,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoyntonBeachFlTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Medical Facility [Member] | Boynton Beach Fl Three [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 5,650,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoyntonBeachFlThreeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 214,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoyntonBeachFlThreeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,611,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoyntonBeachFlThreeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 7,919,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoyntonBeachFlThreeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 117,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoyntonBeachFlThreeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,627,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoyntonBeachFlThreeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,601,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoyntonBeachFlThreeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Medical Facility [Member] | Boardman, OH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoardmanOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 80,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoardmanOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 12,165,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoardmanOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoardmanOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 80,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoardmanOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,165,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoardmanOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,489,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoardmanOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Medical Facility [Member] | Birmingham, AL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BirminghamAlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 52,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BirminghamAlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,201,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BirminghamAlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BirminghamAlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 52,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BirminghamAlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,201,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BirminghamAlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,826,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BirminghamAlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1971      
Medical Facility [Member] | Bellevue, NE [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BellevueNeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BellevueNeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 16,680,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BellevueNeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BellevueNeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BellevueNeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,680,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BellevueNeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,780,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BellevueNeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2010      
Medical Facility [Member] | Boca Raton, FL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BocaRatonFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 109,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BocaRatonFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 34,002,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BocaRatonFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 2,278,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BocaRatonFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 214,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BocaRatonFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 36,175,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BocaRatonFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 9,947,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BocaRatonFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1995      
Medical Facility [Member] | Cedar Grove, WI [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CedarGroveWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 113,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CedarGroveWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 618,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CedarGroveWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CedarGroveWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 113,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CedarGroveWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 618,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CedarGroveWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 109,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CedarGroveWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1986      
Medical Facility [Member] | Claremore, OK [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 7,873,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClaremoreOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 132,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClaremoreOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 12,829,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClaremoreOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 406,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClaremoreOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 132,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClaremoreOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,236,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClaremoreOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,898,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClaremoreOkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2005      
Medical Facility [Member] | Coral Springs, FL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CoralSpringsFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,598,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CoralSpringsFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,627,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CoralSpringsFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,276,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CoralSpringsFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,636,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CoralSpringsFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 11,865,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CoralSpringsFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,092,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CoralSpringsFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1992      
Medical Facility [Member] | Dade City, FL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DadeCityFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,211,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DadeCityFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,511,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DadeCityFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DadeCityFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,211,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DadeCityFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,511,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DadeCityFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 680,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DadeCityFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Medical Facility [Member] | Dallas, TX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 14,247,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DallasTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 137,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DallasTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 28,690,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DallasTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 2,150,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DallasTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 137,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DallasTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 30,841,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DallasTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 8,751,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DallasTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1995      
Medical Facility [Member] | Delray Beach, FL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DelrayBeachFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,882,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DelrayBeachFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 34,767,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DelrayBeachFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 5,402,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DelrayBeachFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,064,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DelrayBeachFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 39,987,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DelrayBeachFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 12,678,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DelrayBeachFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1985      
Medical Facility [Member] | Edina, MN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EdinaMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 310,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EdinaMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,132,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EdinaMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EdinaMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 310,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EdinaMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,132,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EdinaMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,572,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EdinaMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2003      
Medical Facility [Member] | El Paso, TX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 9,558,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ElPasoTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 677,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ElPasoTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,075,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ElPasoTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 2,045,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ElPasoTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 677,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ElPasoTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,120,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ElPasoTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 6,157,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ElPasoTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Medical Facility [Member] | Everett, WA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EverettWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 4,842,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EverettWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 26,010,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EverettWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EverettWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 4,842,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EverettWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 26,010,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EverettWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,806,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EverettWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2011      
Medical Facility [Member] | Fayetteville, GA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FayettevilleGaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 959,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FayettevilleGaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FayettevilleGaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 768,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FayettevilleGaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 986,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FayettevilleGaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,281,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FayettevilleGaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,485,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FayettevilleGaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Medical Facility [Member] | Franklin, TN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FranklinTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,338,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FranklinTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 12,138,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FranklinTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 2,074,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FranklinTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,338,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FranklinTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,212,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FranklinTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,865,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FranklinTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1988      
Medical Facility [Member] | Franklin, WI [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 5,061,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FranklinWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 6,872,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FranklinWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FranklinWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FranklinWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 6,872,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FranklinWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FranklinWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,398,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FranklinWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1984      
Medical Facility [Member] | Frisco, TX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FriscoTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FriscoTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 18,635,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FriscoTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,164,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FriscoTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FriscoTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,799,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FriscoTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,186,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FriscoTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2004      
Medical Facility [Member] | Frisco Tx One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FriscoTxOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FriscoTxOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,309,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FriscoTxOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 2,112,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FriscoTxOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FriscoTxOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 17,421,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FriscoTxOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,281,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_FriscoTxOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2004      
Medical Facility [Member] | Green Bay, WI [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 7,635,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenBayWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenBayWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,891,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenBayWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenBayWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenBayWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,891,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenBayWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,435,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenBayWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2002      
Medical Facility [Member] | Green Bay Wi One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenBayWiOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenBayWiOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 20,098,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenBayWiOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenBayWiOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenBayWiOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 20,098,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenBayWiOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,224,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenBayWiOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2002      
Medical Facility [Member] | Glendale, CA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GlendaleCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 37,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GlendaleCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 18,398,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GlendaleCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 744,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GlendaleCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 37,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GlendaleCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,142,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GlendaleCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,717,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GlendaleCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2002      
Medical Facility [Member] | Gallatin, TN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GallatinTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 20,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GallatinTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 21,801,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GallatinTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GallatinTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 20,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GallatinTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 21,801,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GallatinTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GallatinTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Medical Facility [Member] | Germantown, TN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GermantownTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 3,049,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GermantownTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 12,456,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GermantownTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 737,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GermantownTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 3,049,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GermantownTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,193,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GermantownTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,655,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GermantownTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2002      
Medical Facility [Member] | Greeneville, TN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenevilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 970,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenevilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,131,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenevilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenevilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 970,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenevilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,131,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenevilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,918,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenevilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2005      
Medical Facility [Member] | Houston, TX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HoustonTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 10,403,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HoustonTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HoustonTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HoustonTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 10,403,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HoustonTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HoustonTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HoustonTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1900      
Medical Facility [Member] | Jupiter, FL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 6,655,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_JupiterFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,252,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_JupiterFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 11,415,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_JupiterFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 463,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_JupiterFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,252,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_JupiterFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 11,878,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_JupiterFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,426,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_JupiterFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Medical Facility [Member] | Jupiter Fl One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_JupiterFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,825,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_JupiterFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,858,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_JupiterFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 413,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_JupiterFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,825,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_JupiterFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,271,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_JupiterFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,027,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_JupiterFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2004      
Medical Facility [Member] | Killeen, TX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KilleenTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 760,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KilleenTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 22,878,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KilleenTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KilleenTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 760,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KilleenTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 22,878,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KilleenTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,975,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KilleenTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2010      
Medical Facility [Member] | Kenosha, WI [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 8,312,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KenoshaWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KenoshaWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 18,058,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KenoshaWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KenoshaWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KenoshaWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,058,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KenoshaWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,891,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KenoshaWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1993      
Medical Facility [Member] | Lenexa, KS [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LenexaKsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LenexaKsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,926,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LenexaKsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LenexaKsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LenexaKsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 17,926,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LenexaKsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,622,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LenexaKsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2008      
Medical Facility [Member] | Los Gatos, CA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LosGatosCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 488,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LosGatosCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 22,386,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LosGatosCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,402,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LosGatosCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 488,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LosGatosCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 23,787,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LosGatosCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 7,422,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LosGatosCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1993      
Medical Facility [Member] | Lincoln, NE [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LincolnNeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,420,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LincolnNeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 29,723,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LincolnNeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LincolnNeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,420,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LincolnNeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 29,723,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LincolnNeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 6,423,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LincolnNeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2003      
Medical Facility [Member] | Loxahatchee, FL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LoxahatcheeFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,637,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LoxahatcheeFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,048,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LoxahatcheeFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 909,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LoxahatcheeFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,719,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LoxahatcheeFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,875,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LoxahatcheeFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,752,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LoxahatcheeFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Medical Facility [Member] | Loxahatchee Fl One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LoxahatcheeFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,340,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LoxahatcheeFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,509,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LoxahatcheeFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 472,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LoxahatcheeFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,345,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LoxahatcheeFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,976,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LoxahatcheeFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,993,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LoxahatcheeFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1993      
Medical Facility [Member] | Loxahatchee Fl Two [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LoxahatcheeFlTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,553,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LoxahatcheeFlTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,694,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LoxahatcheeFlTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,057,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LoxahatcheeFlTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,650,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LoxahatcheeFlTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,654,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LoxahatcheeFlTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,561,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LoxahatcheeFlTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1994      
Medical Facility [Member] | Los Alamitos, CA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LosAlamitosCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 39,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LosAlamitosCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 18,635,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LosAlamitosCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,141,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LosAlamitosCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 39,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LosAlamitosCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,776,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LosAlamitosCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,018,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LosAlamitosCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2003      
Medical Facility [Member] | Lake St Louis, MO [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LakeStLouisMoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 240,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LakeStLouisMoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,249,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LakeStLouisMoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LakeStLouisMoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 240,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LakeStLouisMoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,249,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LakeStLouisMoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,693,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LakeStLouisMoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2008      
Medical Facility [Member] | Las Vegas, NV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LasVegasNvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 74,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LasVegasNvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,287,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LasVegasNvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,022,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LasVegasNvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 74,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LasVegasNvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,310,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LasVegasNvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,510,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LasVegasNvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Medical Facility [Member] | Lakewood, CA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LakewoodCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 146,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LakewoodCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,885,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LakewoodCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,732,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LakewoodCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 146,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LakewoodCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,617,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LakewoodCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,188,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LakewoodCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1993      
Medical Facility [Member] | Merrillville, IN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerrillvilleInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerrillvilleInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 22,134,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerrillvilleInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 439,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerrillvilleInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerrillvilleInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 22,573,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerrillvilleInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,326,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerrillvilleInMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2008      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Medical Facility [Member] | Marinette, WI [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 6,576,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MarinetteWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MarinetteWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,538,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MarinetteWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MarinetteWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MarinetteWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,538,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MarinetteWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,607,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MarinetteWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2002      
Medical Facility [Member] | Mesa, AZ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MesaAzMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,558,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MesaAzMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,561,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MesaAzMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 406,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MesaAzMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,558,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MesaAzMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,966,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MesaAzMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,338,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MesaAzMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2008      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1989      
Medical Facility [Member] | Morrow, GA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MorrowGaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 818,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MorrowGaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,064,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MorrowGaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 234,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MorrowGaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 845,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MorrowGaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,270,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MorrowGaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,848,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MorrowGaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1990      
Medical Facility [Member] | Mount Juliet, TN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 3,524,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MountJulietTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,566,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MountJulietTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 11,697,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MountJulietTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,099,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MountJulietTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,566,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MountJulietTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,796,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MountJulietTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,818,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MountJulietTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2005      
Medical Facility [Member] | Muskego, WI [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 1,104,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MuskegoWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 964,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MuskegoWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,159,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MuskegoWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MuskegoWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 964,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MuskegoWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,159,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MuskegoWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 345,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MuskegoWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1993      
Medical Facility [Member] | Milwaukee, WI [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 3,460,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilwaukeeWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilwaukeeWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,457,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilwaukeeWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilwaukeeWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilwaukeeWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,457,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilwaukeeWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,464,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilwaukeeWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1930      
Medical Facility [Member] | Milwaukee Wi One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 9,178,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilwaukeeWiOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,425,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilwaukeeWiOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 11,520,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilwaukeeWiOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilwaukeeWiOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,425,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilwaukeeWiOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 11,520,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilwaukeeWiOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,601,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilwaukeeWiOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1962      
Medical Facility [Member] | Milwaukee Wi Two [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 2,296,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilwaukeeWiTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 922,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilwaukeeWiTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,185,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilwaukeeWiTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilwaukeeWiTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 922,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilwaukeeWiTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,185,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilwaukeeWiTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 617,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilwaukeeWiTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1958      
Medical Facility [Member] | Milwaukee Wi Three [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 19,208,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilwaukeeWiThreeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilwaukeeWiThreeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 44,535,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilwaukeeWiThreeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilwaukeeWiThreeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilwaukeeWiThreeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 44,535,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilwaukeeWiThreeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 6,974,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilwaukeeWiThreeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1983      
Medical Facility [Member] | Merced, CA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MercedCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MercedCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,699,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MercedCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MercedCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MercedCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,699,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MercedCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,691,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MercedCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2009      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2010      
Medical Facility [Member] | Nashville, TN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NashvilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,806,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NashvilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,165,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NashvilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,715,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NashvilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,806,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NashvilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,880,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NashvilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,009,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NashvilleTnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1986      
Medical Facility [Member] | New Berlin, WI [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 4,256,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewBerlinWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 3,739,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewBerlinWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewBerlinWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewBerlinWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 3,739,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewBerlinWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewBerlinWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,440,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewBerlinWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1993      
Medical Facility [Member] | Niagara Falls, NY [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NiagaraFallsNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,433,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NiagaraFallsNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,891,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NiagaraFallsNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NiagaraFallsNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,433,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NiagaraFallsNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,891,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NiagaraFallsNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,761,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NiagaraFallsNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1995      
Medical Facility [Member] | Orange Village, OH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OrangeVillageOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 610,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OrangeVillageOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,419,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OrangeVillageOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 522,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OrangeVillageOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 610,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OrangeVillageOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,941,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OrangeVillageOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,371,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OrangeVillageOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1985      
Medical Facility [Member] | Oshkosh, WI [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OshkoshWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OshkoshWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 18,339,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OshkoshWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OshkoshWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OshkoshWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,339,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OshkoshWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,913,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OshkoshWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Medical Facility [Member] | Oshkosh Wi One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 8,135,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OshkoshWiOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OshkoshWiOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,881,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OshkoshWiOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OshkoshWiOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OshkoshWiOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,881,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OshkoshWiOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,496,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OshkoshWiOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Medical Facility [Member] | Palm Springs, FL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 2,545,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PalmSpringsFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 739,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PalmSpringsFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,066,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PalmSpringsFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 487,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PalmSpringsFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 739,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PalmSpringsFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,552,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PalmSpringsFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,496,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PalmSpringsFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1993      
Medical Facility [Member] | Palm Springs Fl One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PalmSpringsFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,182,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PalmSpringsFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,765,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PalmSpringsFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 504,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PalmSpringsFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,182,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PalmSpringsFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,269,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PalmSpringsFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,645,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PalmSpringsFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Medical Facility [Member] | Phoenix, AZ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhoenixAzMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,149,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhoenixAzMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 48,018,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhoenixAzMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 11,396,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhoenixAzMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,149,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhoenixAzMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 59,415,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhoenixAzMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 16,360,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PhoenixAzMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Medical Facility [Member] | Pineville, NC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PinevilleNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 961,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PinevilleNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,974,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PinevilleNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 2,369,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PinevilleNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,077,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PinevilleNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,228,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PinevilleNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,853,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PinevilleNcMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1988      
Medical Facility [Member] | Plantation, FL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 8,988,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlantationFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 8,563,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlantationFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,666,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlantationFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 2,536,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlantationFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 8,575,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlantationFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,190,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlantationFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,098,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlantationFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Medical Facility [Member] | Plantation Fl One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 8,342,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlantationFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 8,848,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlantationFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,262,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlantationFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 337,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlantationFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 8,908,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlantationFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,539,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlantationFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,463,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlantationFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Medical Facility [Member] | Plano, TX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlanoTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 5,423,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlanoTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 20,752,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlanoTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 285,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlanoTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 5,423,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlanoTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 21,037,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlanoTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 8,288,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlanoTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2008      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Medical Facility [Member] | Plymouth, WI [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 1,288,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlymouthWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlymouthWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 1,870,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlymouthWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlymouthWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlymouthWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 1,870,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlymouthWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 364,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlymouthWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1991      
Medical Facility [Member] | Palmer, AK [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 18,660,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PalmerAkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 217,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PalmerAkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 29,705,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PalmerAkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,042,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PalmerAkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 217,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PalmerAkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 30,747,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PalmerAkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 7,584,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PalmerAkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Medical Facility [Member] | Sacramento, CA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SacramentoCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 866,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SacramentoCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 12,756,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SacramentoCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,727,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SacramentoCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 866,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SacramentoCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,483,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SacramentoCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,868,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SacramentoCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1990      
Medical Facility [Member] | Seattle, WA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 4,410,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 38,428,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 4,410,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 38,428,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 6,658,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2010      
Medical Facility [Member] | Shakopee, MN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 6,556,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShakopeeMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 508,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShakopeeMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 11,412,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShakopeeMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShakopeeMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 508,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShakopeeMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 11,412,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShakopeeMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,207,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShakopeeMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Medical Facility [Member] | Shakopee Mn One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 11,094,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShakopeeMnOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 707,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShakopeeMnOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 18,089,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShakopeeMnOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShakopeeMnOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 707,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShakopeeMnOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,089,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShakopeeMnOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,503,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShakopeeMnOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Medical Facility [Member] | Sheboygan, WI [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 1,779,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
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Initial Cost of Land 1,012,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SheboyganWiMember
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,216,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SheboyganWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SheboyganWiMember
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,012,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SheboyganWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,216,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SheboyganWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 436,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SheboyganWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1958      
Medical Facility [Member] | Somerville, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 3,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SomervilleNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 22,244,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SomervilleNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 2,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SomervilleNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 3,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SomervilleNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 22,246,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SomervilleNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,569,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SomervilleNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2008      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Medical Facility [Member] | St. Louis, MO [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StLouisMoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 336,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StLouisMoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,247,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StLouisMoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,031,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StLouisMoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 336,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StLouisMoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,278,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StLouisMoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,984,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StLouisMoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Medical Facility [Member] | Suffolk, VA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SuffolkVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,566,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SuffolkVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 11,511,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SuffolkVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SuffolkVaMember
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,566,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SuffolkVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 11,511,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SuffolkVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,823,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SuffolkVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Medical Facility [Member] | Summit, WI [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,899,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SummitWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 87,666,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SummitWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SummitWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,899,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SummitWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 87,666,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SummitWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 19,308,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SummitWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2008      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Medical Facility [Member] | Sewell, NJ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SewellNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 60,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SewellNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 57,929,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SewellNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SewellNjMember
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 60,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SewellNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 57,929,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SewellNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 13,498,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SewellNjMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Medical Facility [Member] | Stafford, VA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StaffordVaMember
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Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StaffordVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StaffordVaMember
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StaffordVaMember
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_StaffordVaMember
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Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StaffordVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2008      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Medical Facility [Member] | Tucson, AZ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TucsonAzMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,302,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TucsonAzMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,925,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TucsonAzMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 824,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TucsonAzMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,302,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TucsonAzMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,749,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TucsonAzMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,906,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TucsonAzMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2008      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1995      
Medical Facility [Member] | Tallahassee, FL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TallahasseeFlMember
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TallahasseeFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,449,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TallahasseeFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TallahasseeFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_TallahasseeFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 17,449,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TallahasseeFlMember
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,815,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TallahasseeFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2011      
Medical Facility [Member] | Van Nuys, CA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VanNuysCaMember
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VanNuysCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 36,187,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VanNuysCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VanNuysCaMember
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VanNuysCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 36,187,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VanNuysCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,468,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VanNuysCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2009      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1991      
Medical Facility [Member] | Wellington, FL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WellingtonFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 388,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WellingtonFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,697,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WellingtonFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 414,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WellingtonFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 388,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WellingtonFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,111,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WellingtonFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,470,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WellingtonFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2003      
Medical Facility [Member] | Wellington Fl One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WellingtonFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 107,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WellingtonFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 16,933,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WellingtonFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,880,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WellingtonFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 107,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WellingtonFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,813,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WellingtonFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WellingtonFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Medical Facility [Member] | West Palm Beach, FL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestPalmBeachFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 628,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestPalmBeachFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,740,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestPalmBeachFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 121,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestPalmBeachFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 628,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestPalmBeachFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,861,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestPalmBeachFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,448,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestPalmBeachFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1993      
Medical Facility [Member] | West Palm Beach Fl One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestPalmBeachFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 610,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestPalmBeachFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,618,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestPalmBeachFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 404,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestPalmBeachFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 610,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestPalmBeachFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,023,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestPalmBeachFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,853,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestPalmBeachFlOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1991      
Medical Facility [Member] | West Allis, WI [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 3,267,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestAllisWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,106,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestAllisWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,309,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestAllisWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestAllisWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,106,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestAllisWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,309,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestAllisWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 777,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestAllisWiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1961      
Medical Facility [Member] | West Seneca, NY [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestSenecaNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 917,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestSenecaNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 22,435,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestSenecaNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 2,114,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestSenecaNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,642,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestSenecaNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 23,824,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestSenecaNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 6,666,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WestSenecaNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1990      
Medical Facility [Member] | Voorhees, NJ 3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VoorheesNj3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 6,404,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VoorheesNj3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 24,251,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VoorheesNj3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,387,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VoorheesNj3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 6,477,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VoorheesNj3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 25,564,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VoorheesNj3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 6,638,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VoorheesNj3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Medical Facility [Member] | Alpharetta, GA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlpharettaGaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 773,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlpharettaGaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 18,902,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlpharettaGaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlpharettaGaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 773,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlpharettaGaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,902,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlpharettaGaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,978,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlpharettaGaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1993      
Medical Facility [Member] | Alpharetta, GA 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlpharettaGa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,769,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlpharettaGa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 36,256,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlpharettaGa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlpharettaGa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,769,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlpharettaGa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 36,256,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlpharettaGa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 6,603,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlpharettaGa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Medical Facility [Member] | Alpharetta, GA 3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlpharettaGa3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 476,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlpharettaGa3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,757,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlpharettaGa3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlpharettaGa3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 476,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlpharettaGa3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,757,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlpharettaGa3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,515,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlpharettaGa3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2003      
Medical Facility [Member] | Alpharetta, GA 4 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlpharettaGa4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,862,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlpharettaGa4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlpharettaGa4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlpharettaGa4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,862,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlpharettaGa4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlpharettaGa4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlpharettaGa4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1900      
Medical Facility [Member] | Alpharetta, GA 5 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlpharettaGa5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 548,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlpharettaGa5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,103,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlpharettaGa5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlpharettaGa5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 548,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlpharettaGa5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 17,103,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlpharettaGa5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,361,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlpharettaGa5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Medical Facility [Member] | Boerne, TX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoerneTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 50,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoerneTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,541,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoerneTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoerneTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 50,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoerneTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,541,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoerneTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,436,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BoerneTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Medical Facility [Member] | Burleson, TX 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlesonTx2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 10,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlesonTx2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 12,611,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlesonTx2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlesonTx2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 10,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlesonTx2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,611,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlesonTx2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,885,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BurlesonTx2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Medical Facility [Member] | Carmel, IN 3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CarmelIn3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,280,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CarmelIn3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,238,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CarmelIn3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CarmelIn3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,280,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CarmelIn3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,238,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CarmelIn3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,264,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CarmelIn3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2005      
Medical Facility [Member] | Carmel, IN 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CarmelIn2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,026,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CarmelIn2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 21,559,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CarmelIn2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CarmelIn2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,026,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CarmelIn2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 21,559,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CarmelIn2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,597,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CarmelIn2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Medical Facility [Member] | Dayton, OH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DaytonOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 730,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DaytonOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,937,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DaytonOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DaytonOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 730,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DaytonOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,937,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DaytonOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,342,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DaytonOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1988      
Medical Facility [Member] | Deerfield Beach, FL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DeerfieldBeachFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,408,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DeerfieldBeachFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,809,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DeerfieldBeachFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DeerfieldBeachFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,408,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DeerfieldBeachFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,809,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DeerfieldBeachFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,943,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DeerfieldBeachFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Medical Facility [Member] | Merriam, KS [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerriamKsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 176,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerriamKsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,005,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerriamKsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerriamKsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 176,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerriamKsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,005,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerriamKsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,066,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerriamKsMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1972      
Medical Facility [Member] | Merriam, KS 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerriamKs2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 81,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerriamKs2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,849,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerriamKs2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerriamKs2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 81,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerriamKs2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,849,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerriamKs2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 732,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerriamKs2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1980      
Medical Facility [Member] | Merriam, KS 3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerriamKs3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 336,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerriamKs3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,318,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerriamKs3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerriamKs3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 336,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerriamKs3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,318,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerriamKs3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,022,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerriamKs3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1977      
Medical Facility [Member] | Merriam, KS 4 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 14,689,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerriamKs4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 182,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerriamKs4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,144,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerriamKs4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerriamKs4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 182,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerriamKs4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,144,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerriamKs4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,722,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MerriamKs4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1985      
Medical Facility [Member] | Portland, ME [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PortlandMeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 655,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PortlandMeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 25,930,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PortlandMeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PortlandMeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 655,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PortlandMeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 25,930,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PortlandMeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,770,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PortlandMeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2008      
Medical Facility [Member] | Rolla, MO [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RollaMoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,931,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RollaMoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 47,639,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RollaMoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RollaMoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,931,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RollaMoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 47,639,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RollaMoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,648,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RollaMoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Medical Facility [Member] | Roswell, NM [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 1,535,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RoswellNmMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 183,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RoswellNmMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,851,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RoswellNmMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RoswellNmMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 183,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RoswellNmMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,851,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RoswellNmMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 865,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RoswellNmMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2004      
Medical Facility [Member] | Roswell, NM 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 4,413,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RoswellNm2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 883,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RoswellNm2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,984,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RoswellNm2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RoswellNm2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 883,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RoswellNm2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,984,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RoswellNm2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,040,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RoswellNm2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Medical Facility [Member] | Roswell, NM 3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RoswellNm3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 762,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RoswellNm3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,171,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RoswellNm3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RoswellNm3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 762,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RoswellNm3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 17,171,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RoswellNm3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,750,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RoswellNm3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Medical Facility [Member] | St. Paul, MN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 25,253,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StPaulMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,706,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StPaulMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 39,507,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StPaulMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StPaulMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,706,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StPaulMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 39,507,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StPaulMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,864,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_StPaulMnMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Medical Facility [Member] | Suffern, NY [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SuffernNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 653,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SuffernNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 37,255,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SuffernNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SuffernNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 653,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SuffernNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 37,255,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SuffernNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,974,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SuffernNyMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Medical Facility [Member] | Tampa, FL 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TampaFl2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 4,319,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TampaFl2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 12,234,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TampaFl2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TampaFl2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 4,319,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TampaFl2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,234,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TampaFl2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,292,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TampaFl2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2003      
Medical Facility [Member] | Virginia Beach, VA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VirginiaBeachVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 924,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VirginiaBeachVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,168,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VirginiaBeachVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VirginiaBeachVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 924,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VirginiaBeachVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,168,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VirginiaBeachVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,725,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_VirginiaBeachVaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Medical Facility [Member] | Zephyrhills, FL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ZephyrhillsFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 3,875,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ZephyrhillsFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 27,270,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ZephyrhillsFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ZephyrhillsFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 3,875,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ZephyrhillsFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 27,270,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ZephyrhillsFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,134,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ZephyrhillsFlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1974      
Medical Facility [Member] | Birmingham, AL 4 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BirminghamAl4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 124,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BirminghamAl4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 12,492,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BirminghamAl4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BirminghamAl4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 124,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BirminghamAl4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,492,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BirminghamAl4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,287,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BirminghamAl4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1985      
Medical Facility [Member] | Birmingham, AL 5 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BirminghamAl5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 476,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BirminghamAl5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,864,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BirminghamAl5Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BirminghamAl5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 476,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BirminghamAl5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,864,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BirminghamAl5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,231,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BirminghamAl5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1989      
Medical Facility [Member] | Bridgeton, MO 3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 10,670,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BridgetonMo3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BridgetonMo3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 21,272,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BridgetonMo3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BridgetonMo3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BridgetonMo3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 21,272,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BridgetonMo3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,139,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BridgetonMo3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Medical Facility [Member] | Clarkson Valley, MO 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClarksonValleyMo2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClarksonValleyMo2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 35,592,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClarksonValleyMo2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClarksonValleyMo2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClarksonValleyMo2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 35,592,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClarksonValleyMo2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 6,773,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ClarksonValleyMo2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2009      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2010      
Medical Facility [Member] | Green Bay, WI 4 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenBayWi4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenBayWi4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 11,696,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenBayWi4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenBayWi4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenBayWi4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 11,696,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenBayWi4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,606,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GreenBayWi4Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2002      
Medical Facility [Member] | Lakeway, TX 3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LakewayTx3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,801,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LakewayTx3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LakewayTx3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LakewayTx3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,801,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LakewayTx3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LakewayTx3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LakewayTx3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1900      
Medical Facility [Member] | Las Vegas, NV 5 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LasVegasNv5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,319,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LasVegasNv5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,612,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LasVegasNv5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,021,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LasVegasNv5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,319,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LasVegasNv5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,632,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LasVegasNv5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,722,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LasVegasNv5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1991      
Medical Facility [Member] | Las Vegas, NV 6 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LasVegasNv6Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 433,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LasVegasNv6Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,921,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LasVegasNv6Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 212,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LasVegasNv6Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 433,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LasVegasNv6Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,133,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LasVegasNv6Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,166,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LasVegasNv6Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Medical Facility [Member] | Las Vegas, NV 8 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LasVegasNv8Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 6,127,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LasVegasNv8Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LasVegasNv8Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LasVegasNv8Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 6,127,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LasVegasNv8Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LasVegasNv8Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LasVegasNv8Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1900      
Medical Facility [Member] | Murrieta, CA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MurrietaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MurrietaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 47,190,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MurrietaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MurrietaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MurrietaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 47,190,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MurrietaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 8,677,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MurrietaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2011      
Medical Facility [Member] | Niagara Falls, NY 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NiagaraFallsNy2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 454,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NiagaraFallsNy2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NiagaraFallsNy2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NiagaraFallsNy2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 454,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NiagaraFallsNy2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NiagaraFallsNy2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,070,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NiagaraFallsNy2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2004      
Medical Facility [Member] | Oro Valley, AZ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 9,613,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OroValleyAzMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 89,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OroValleyAzMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 18,339,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OroValleyAzMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 567,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OroValleyAzMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 89,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OroValleyAzMember
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,905,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_OroValleyAzMember
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,826,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_OroValleyAzMember
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2004      
Medical Facility [Member] | Redmond, WA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 5,015,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 26,709,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_RedmondWaMember
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_RedmondWaMember
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Carrying Amount of Land 5,015,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_RedmondWaMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 26,709,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_RedmondWaMember
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,096,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_RedmondWaMember
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2011      
Medical Facility [Member] | Akron, OH 1350 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 821,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 12,105,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1350Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 821,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_P1350Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,105,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,086,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1350Member
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2010      
Medical Facility [Member] | Allen, TX 1312 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 12,080,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_P1312Member
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Initial Cost of Land 726,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_P1312Member
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,196,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1312Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 726,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_P1312Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,196,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1312Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,325,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1312Member
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Medical Facility [Member] | Atlanta, GA 1327 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 17,260,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_P1327Member
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Initial Cost of Land 1,947,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 24,248,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1327Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,947,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_P1327Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 24,248,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1327Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,989,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1327Member
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1984      
Medical Facility [Member] | Atlanta, GA 1329 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 26,086,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 43,425,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1329Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 43,425,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 7,248,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1329Member
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Medical Facility [Member] | Boca Raton, FL 1320 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 31,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_P1320Member
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 12,312,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1320Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 31,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_P1320Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,312,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1320Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,451,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1320Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1993      
Medical Facility [Member] | Borehamwood, England BHD [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 7,074,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_BhdMember
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 41,060,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_BhdMember
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 10,953,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_BhdMember
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 6,778,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BhdMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 52,310,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BhdMember
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,087,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_BhdMember
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2003      
Medical Facility [Member] | Cincinnati, OH 1357 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_P1357Member
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,880,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1357Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_P1357Member
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 17,880,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1357Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 750,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1357Member
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Medical Facility [Member] | Columbia, MD 1364 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,291,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_P1364Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,841,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1364Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,291,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_P1364Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,841,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P1364Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,974,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1364Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2002      
Medical Facility [Member] | Columbus, OH 1353 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 415,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_P1353Member
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,646,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1353Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_P1353Member
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Carrying Amount of Land 415,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P1353Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,646,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P1353Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,375,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1353Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1994      
Medical Facility [Member] | Dallas, TX 1313 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 28,450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P1313Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 462,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P1313Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 52,488,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P1313Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
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Carrying Amount of Land 462,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 52,488,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 5,173,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2004      
Medical Facility [Member] | Fort Wayne, IN 1340 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 16,378,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,105,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 22,836,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1340Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,105,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 22,836,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,090,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1340Member
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2004      
Medical Facility [Member] | Grand Prairie, TX 1339 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 981,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,086,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 981,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_P1339Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,086,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1339Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 884,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1339Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Medical Facility [Member] | Greenwood, IN 1345 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 8,316,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_P1345Member
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 26,384,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1345Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 8,316,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_P1345Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 26,384,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1345Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,648,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1345Member
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2010      
Medical Facility [Member] | High Point, NC 1352 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,659,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_P1352Member
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 29,069,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1352Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,659,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_P1352Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 29,069,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1352Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,345,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1352Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2010      
Medical Facility [Member] | Highland, IL 1347 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,834,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1347Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,834,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1347Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1347Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Medical Facility [Member] | Houston, TX 1330 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 5,837,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_P1330Member
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 33,128,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1330Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 5,837,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P1330Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 33,128,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1330Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,677,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1330Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2005      
Medical Facility [Member] | Houston, TX 1342 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,688,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_P1342Member
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,313,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1342Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_P1342Member
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,688,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P1342Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,313,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1342Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,318,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1342Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Medical Facility [Member] | Houston, TX 131601 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 14,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_P131601Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 378,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_P131601Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 31,932,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P131601Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P131601Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 378,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P131601Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 31,932,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P131601Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,534,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P131601Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1981      
Medical Facility [Member] | Houston, TX 131602 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_P131602Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 156,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_P131602Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,617,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P131602Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_P131602Member
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Carrying Amount of Land 156,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_P131602Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,617,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P131602Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,461,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P131602Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1986      
Medical Facility [Member] | Hudson, OH 1356 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_P1356Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,587,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P1356Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,720,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P1356Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P1356Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,587,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P1356Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,720,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P1356Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,695,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P1356Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Medical Facility [Member] | Katy, TX 1341 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P1341Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,099,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P1341Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 1,604,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P1341Member
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,099,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 1,604,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 286,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1986      
Medical Facility [Member] | Lakewood, WA 1368 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 7,242,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 72,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 16,058,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 72,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,058,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,247,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2005      
Medical Facility [Member] | Mesquite, TX 1355 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 496,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,834,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 496,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,834,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 364,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2012      
Medical Facility [Member] | Moline, IL 1359 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,783,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,783,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Medical Facility [Member] | Monticello, MN 1367 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 8,860,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 61,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 18,489,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 61,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,489,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,324,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2008      
Medical Facility [Member] | Pasadena, TX 1351 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,009,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,009,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 301,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Medical Facility [Member] | Pearland, TX 1344 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 11,253,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 11,253,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 331,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1344Member
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Medical Facility [Member] | Pendleton, OR 1361 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,324,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,324,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1361Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 286,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1361Member
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Medical Facility [Member] | Plano, TX 1314 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 53,236,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 793,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_P1314Member
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 83,209,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1314Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 793,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_P1314Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 83,209,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1314Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 10,534,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1314Member
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2005      
Medical Facility [Member] | Richmond, VA 1307 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,969,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_P1307Member
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 26,697,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1307Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,969,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_P1307Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 26,697,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P1307Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,893,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1307Member
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2008      
Medical Facility [Member] | Rockwall, TX 1315 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 132,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_P1315Member
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,197,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1315Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 132,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_P1315Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 17,197,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P1315Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,223,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1315Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2008      
Medical Facility [Member] | San Antonio, TX 1319 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 18,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_P1319Member
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Initial Cost of Land 4,518,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P1319Member
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 31,041,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 4,518,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 31,041,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 5,074,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1986      
Medical Facility [Member] | Sarasota, FL 1289 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 62,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 47,325,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 62,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 47,325,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,592,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1990      
Medical Facility [Member] | Southlake, TX 1317 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 11,680,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 592,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 18,243,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1317Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 592,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,243,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,327,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2004      
Medical Facility [Member] | Southlake, TX 1318 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 18,054,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 698,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 30,549,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 698,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 30,549,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,182,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2004      
Medical Facility [Member] | Sugar Land, TX 1363 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 8,522,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,543,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,532,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,543,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,532,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,761,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1363Member
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2005      
Medical Facility [Member] | Tampa, FL 1328 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,212,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,643,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,212,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,643,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,548,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1328Member
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Medical Facility [Member] | Tampa, FL 1346 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,208,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_P1346Member
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,491,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,208,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_P1346Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,491,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,303,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1346Member
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1985      
Medical Facility [Member] | Westerville, OH 1354 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,122,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_P1354Member
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,641,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1354Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,122,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_P1354Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,641,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1354Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 681,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1354Member
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Medical Facility [Member] | Harker Heights, TX 1335 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,907,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_P1335Member
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,575,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1335Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,907,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_P1335Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,575,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1335Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 209,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1335Member
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2012      
Medical Facility [Member] | Moorestown, NJ 1296 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 50,927,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1296Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 50,927,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1296Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,272,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1296Member
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2012      
Medical Facility [Member] | Mount Vernon, IL 1288 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 24,892,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1288Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 24,892,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P1288Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,150,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1288Member
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2012      
Medical Facility [Member] | Temple, TX 1305 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_P1305Member
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Initial Cost of Land 2,900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,954,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,954,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 620,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2012      
Medical Facility [Member] | Voorhees, NJ 1255 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 6,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 96,075,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 6,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 96,075,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 10,205,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2012      
Medical Facility [Member] | Boynton Beach, FL 1380 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 26,001,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 13,324,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 40,369,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 13,324,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 40,369,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,152,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1380Member
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1995      
Medical Facility [Member] | Durham, NC 1395 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,212,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 22,858,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,212,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 22,858,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 792,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1395Member
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2012      
Medical Facility [Member] | Fenton, MO 1387 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 11,880,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 958,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 27,485,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 958,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_P1387Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 27,485,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1387Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,594,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1387Member
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Medical Facility [Member] | Fenton, MO 1389 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 5,733,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_P1389Member
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Initial Cost of Land 369,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_P1389Member
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,911,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1389Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 369,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_P1389Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,911,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1389Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 555,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1389Member
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Medical Facility [Member] | Jackson, MI 1390 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 607,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_P1390Member
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,367,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1390Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_P1390Member
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Carrying Amount of Land 607,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_P1390Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 17,367,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1390Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,015,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1390Member
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Medical Facility [Member] | Merriam, KS 1391 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,226,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_P1391Member
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 25,099,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1391Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,226,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_P1391Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 25,099,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1391Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,265,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1391Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Medical Facility [Member] | Oklahoma City, OK 1369 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 216,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_P1369Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,135,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1369Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_P1369Member
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Carrying Amount of Land 216,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_P1369Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,135,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P1369Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,270,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1369Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2008      
Medical Facility [Member] | Tacoma, WA 1302 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_P1302Member
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 64,307,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1302Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_P1302Member
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 64,307,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P1302Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 5,493,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1302Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Medical Facility [Member] | Castle Rock, CO 1382 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_P1382Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 80,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_P1382Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,004,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P1382Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P1382Member
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Carrying Amount of Land 80,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P1382Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,004,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P1382Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 346,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P1382Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Medical Facility [Member] | Salem, NH 1397 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,050,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,050,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 388,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Medical Facility [Member] | Houston, TX 1398 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,102,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 32,323,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 420,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2014      
Medical Facility [Member] | Melbourne, FL 1399 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 3,439,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 50,461,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,439,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 50,461,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,053,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Medical Facility [Member] | Bradenton, FL 1400 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 1,184,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,799,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,184,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,799,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 220,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1975      
Medical Facility [Member] | Bradenton, FL 1401 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 1,035,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,298,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,035,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,298,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 107,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Medical Facility [Member] | Charleston, SC 1402 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,773,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 25,928,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,773,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 25,928,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 601,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Medical Facility [Member] | San Antonio, TX 1403 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,288,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 17,288,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1403Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 680,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Medical Facility [Member] | Kyle, TX 1404 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,569,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,384,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,569,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_P1404Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,384,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1404Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 407,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1404Member
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2011      
Medical Facility [Member] | New Albany, IN 1405 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,411,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 16,494,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,411,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_P1405Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,494,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1405Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 332,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1405Member
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Medical Facility [Member] | Grenwood, IN 1406 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,098,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_P1406Member
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 21,538,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1406Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,098,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_P1406Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 21,538,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P1406Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 252,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P1406Member
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Medical Facility [Member] | Greenwood, IN 1407 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,262,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_P1407Member
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,045,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_P1407Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,262,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_P1407Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,045,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P1407Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 128,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P1407Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2010      
Medical Facility [Member] | La Quinta, CA 1408 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 22,066,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 415,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Medical Facility [Member] | Grapevine, TX 1409 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 5,548,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,943,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,943,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2002      
Medical Facility [Member] | Fort Worth, TX 1410 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 401,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,099,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 401,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,099,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 51,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Medical Facility [Member] | Flower Mound, TX 1412 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 4,164,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 27,529,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 4,164,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 27,529,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 144,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2012      
Medical Facility [Member] | Flower Mound, TX 1413 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 5,980,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Land 5,980,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1900      
Medical Facility [Member] | Murrieta, CA 1414 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 3,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1900      
Medical Facility [Member] | Santa Clarita, CA 1417 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 28,384,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 28,384,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 179,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Medical Facility [Member] | Santa Clarita, CA 1418 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,222,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,222,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 14,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Medical Facility [Member] | Santa Clarita, CA 1419 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 25,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 41,151,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 41,151,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 259,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Medical Facility [Member] | Santa Clarita, CA 1420 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 20,618,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 20,618,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 130,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1989      
Medical Facility [Member] | Mission Hills, CA 1421 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 25,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 42,276,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 42,276,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 265,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1986      
Medical Facility [Member] | Sherman Oaks, CA 1422 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 32,186,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1969      
Medical Facility [Member] | Santa Clarita, CA 1423 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1900      
Medical Facility [Member] | St Paul, MN 1425 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 37,695,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Medical Facility [Member] | Bel Air, MD 1426 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1900      
Medical Facility [Member] | Pearland, TX 1429 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 32,753,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 113,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Medical Facility [Member] | Southlake, TX 1434 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1900      
Medical Facility [Member] | Grapevine, TX 1435 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 10,044,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 22,557,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2002      
Medical Facility [Member] | San Antonio, TX 111101 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 1,012,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,545,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,012,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,545,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,142,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Medical Facility [Member] | San Antonio, TX 111102 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,038,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,264,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,038,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,264,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,032,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Medical Facility [Member] | Houston, TX 134301 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 58,173,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 12,815,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 45,359,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,159,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Medical Facility [Member] | Santa Clarita, CA 141501 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,338,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,338,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 15,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1976      
Medical Facility [Member] | Santa Clarita, CA 141502 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,318,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P141502Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,318,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P141502Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 15,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_P141502Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1976      
Medical Facility [Member] | Santa Clarita, CA 141503 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,318,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P141503Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P141503Member
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_P141503Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,318,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P141503Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 15,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P141503Member
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1976      
Medical Facility [Member] | Santa Clarita, CA 141504 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_P141504Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P141504Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,318,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P141504Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P141504Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_P141504Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,318,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P141504Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 15,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P141504Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1976      
Medical Facility [Member] | Santa Clarita, CA 141505 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_P141505Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,124,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P141505Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P141505Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_P141505Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,124,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P141505Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 83,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_P141505Member
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= hcn_MedicalFacilityMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1976      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 1,654,531,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 773,492,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,293,454,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 348,816,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 788,969,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,626,789,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,110,393,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Agawam, MA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 6,560,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AgawamMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 880,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AgawamMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,044,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AgawamMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 253,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AgawamMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 896,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AgawamMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,281,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AgawamMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,747,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AgawamMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Albuquerque, NM [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 5,386,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlbuquerqueNmMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,270,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlbuquerqueNmMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 20,837,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlbuquerqueNmMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,113,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlbuquerqueNmMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,275,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlbuquerqueNmMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 21,945,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlbuquerqueNmMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,753,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlbuquerqueNmMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1984      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Azusa, CA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AzusaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 570,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AzusaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,141,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AzusaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 6,356,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AzusaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 570,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AzusaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,497,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AzusaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,076,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AzusaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 1998      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1953      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Brighton, MA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 10,529,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrightonMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrightonMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,616,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrightonMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 437,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrightonMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,109,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrightonMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,044,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrightonMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,606,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrightonMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1995      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Cincinnati, OH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CincinnatiOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,060,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CincinnatiOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 109,388,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CincinnatiOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 4,202,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CincinnatiOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,060,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CincinnatiOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 113,590,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CincinnatiOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 12,750,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CincinnatiOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2010      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Dallas, TX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DallasTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,080,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DallasTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,655,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DallasTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 352,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DallasTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,080,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DallasTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,007,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DallasTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,507,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DallasTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Davenport, IA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DavenportIaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,403,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DavenportIaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 35,893,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DavenportIaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 2,334,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DavenportIaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,444,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DavenportIaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 38,186,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DavenportIaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,548,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DavenportIaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Dublin, OH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 18,178,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DublinOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,680,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DublinOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 43,423,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DublinOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 3,828,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DublinOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,724,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DublinOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 47,207,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DublinOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 7,701,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DublinOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1990      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Encinitas, CA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EncinitasCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,460,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EncinitasCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,721,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EncinitasCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 641,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EncinitasCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,460,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EncinitasCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,362,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EncinitasCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,454,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EncinitasCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2000      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1988      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Gilroy, CA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GilroyCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 760,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GilroyCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,880,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GilroyCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 24,144,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GilroyCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,539,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GilroyCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 37,245,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GilroyCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 6,994,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GilroyCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Hamden, CT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 15,389,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HamdenCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,460,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HamdenCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 24,093,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HamdenCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 724,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HamdenCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,487,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HamdenCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 24,789,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HamdenCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,423,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HamdenCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Henderson, NV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HendersonNvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 880,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HendersonNvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 29,809,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HendersonNvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 90,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HendersonNvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 880,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HendersonNvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 29,899,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HendersonNvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,253,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HendersonNvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Houston, TX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 7,719,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HoustonTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 960,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HoustonTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 27,598,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HoustonTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,244,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HoustonTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 960,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HoustonTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 28,842,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HoustonTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,278,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HoustonTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1995      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Irving, TX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_IrvingTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,030,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_IrvingTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,823,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_IrvingTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 767,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_IrvingTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,030,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_IrvingTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,590,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_IrvingTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,482,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_IrvingTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2007      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Kansas City, MO [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KansasCityMoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,820,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KansasCityMoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 34,898,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KansasCityMoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 3,095,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KansasCityMoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,845,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KansasCityMoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 37,968,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KansasCityMoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 6,273,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KansasCityMoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1980      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Kansas City Mo One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 6,530,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KansasCityMoOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,930,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KansasCityMoOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 39,997,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KansasCityMoOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 2,555,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KansasCityMoOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,963,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KansasCityMoOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 42,519,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KansasCityMoOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 7,711,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KansasCityMoOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1986      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Kirkland, WA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 24,600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KirklandWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 3,450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KirklandWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 38,709,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KirklandWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 321,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KirklandWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 3,454,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KirklandWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 39,026,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KirklandWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,870,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KirklandWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Loma Linda, CA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 65,431,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LomaLindaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LomaLindaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 114,438,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LomaLindaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 782,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LomaLindaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LomaLindaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 115,219,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LomaLindaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 16,608,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LomaLindaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LosAngelesCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LosAngelesCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 11,430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LosAngelesCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 996,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LosAngelesCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LosAngelesCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,426,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LosAngelesCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,824,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_LosAngelesCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2008      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1971      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Plano, TX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 4,167,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlanoTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 840,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlanoTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,538,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlanoTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 659,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlanoTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 840,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlanoTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,197,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlanoTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,655,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PlanoTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Quincy, MA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_QuincyMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_QuincyMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 12,584,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_QuincyMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 445,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_QuincyMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,374,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_QuincyMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,005,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_QuincyMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,296,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_QuincyMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Rocky Hill, CT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 10,423,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockyHillCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 810,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockyHillCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 16,351,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockyHillCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 232,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockyHillCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 838,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockyHillCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,556,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockyHillCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,583,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RockyHillCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Romeoville, IL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RomeovilleIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 854,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RomeovilleIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 12,646,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RomeovilleIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 58,777,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RomeovilleIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 6,150,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RomeovilleIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 66,127,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RomeovilleIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 8,715,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RomeovilleIlMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2010      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | San Diego, CA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanDiegoCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 4,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanDiegoCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 30,707,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanDiegoCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 116,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanDiegoCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 4,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanDiegoCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 30,823,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanDiegoCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,473,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanDiegoCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2011      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | San Juan Capistrano, CA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanJuanCapistranoCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,390,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanJuanCapistranoCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,942,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanJuanCapistranoCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 956,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanJuanCapistranoCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,390,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanJuanCapistranoCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,898,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanJuanCapistranoCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,737,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanJuanCapistranoCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2000      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Scottsdale, AZ [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ScottsdaleAzMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ScottsdaleAzMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,890,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ScottsdaleAzMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,133,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ScottsdaleAzMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ScottsdaleAzMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,023,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ScottsdaleAzMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 921,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ScottsdaleAzMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2008      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Toledo, OH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 15,741,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ToledoOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,040,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ToledoOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 47,129,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ToledoOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,454,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ToledoOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,144,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ToledoOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 48,478,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ToledoOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 9,208,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ToledoOhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1985      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Tulsa Ok One [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 6,129,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TulsaOkOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TulsaOkOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 21,285,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TulsaOkOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,108,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TulsaOkOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TulsaOkOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 22,373,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TulsaOkOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,860,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TulsaOkOneMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1986      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Tulsa Ok Two [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 8,010,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TulsaOkTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TulsaOkTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 20,861,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TulsaOkTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 974,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TulsaOkTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,515,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TulsaOkTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 21,820,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TulsaOkTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,159,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TulsaOkTwoMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2010      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1984      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Waterbury, CT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 24,709,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WaterburyCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,460,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WaterburyCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 39,547,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WaterburyCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 950,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WaterburyCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,495,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WaterburyCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 40,462,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WaterburyCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 10,223,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WaterburyCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Worcester, MA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 13,979,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WorcesterMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,140,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WorcesterMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 21,664,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WorcesterMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 621,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WorcesterMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,152,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WorcesterMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 22,273,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WorcesterMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,422,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WorcesterMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | North Andover, MA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 22,685,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthAndoverMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,960,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthAndoverMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 34,976,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthAndoverMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 748,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthAndoverMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,983,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthAndoverMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 35,702,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthAndoverMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,781,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthAndoverMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1995      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Alhambra, CA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlhambraCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlhambraCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,305,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlhambraCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 841,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlhambraCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlhambraCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,146,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlhambraCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 920,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AlhambraCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1923      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Avon, CT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 19,313,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AvonCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AvonCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 30,571,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AvonCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,211,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AvonCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,580,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AvonCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 31,753,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AvonCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 6,425,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_AvonCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Belmont, CA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BelmontCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 3,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BelmontCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 23,526,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BelmontCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,091,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BelmontCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 3,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BelmontCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 24,616,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BelmontCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,967,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BelmontCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1971      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Brookfield, CT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 19,681,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrookfieldCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrookfieldCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 30,180,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrookfieldCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 620,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrookfieldCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,262,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrookfieldCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 30,788,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrookfieldCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BrookfieldCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Cardiff by Sea, CA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 40,364,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CardiffBySeaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 5,880,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CardiffBySeaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 64,711,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CardiffBySeaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 449,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CardiffBySeaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 5,880,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CardiffBySeaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 65,160,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CardiffBySeaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 8,773,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CardiffBySeaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | North Chelmsford, MA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 11,956,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthChelmsfordMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 880,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthChelmsfordMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 18,478,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthChelmsfordMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 524,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthChelmsfordMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 890,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthChelmsfordMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,993,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthChelmsfordMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,737,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NorthChelmsfordMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Concord, NH 5 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 13,550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConcordNh5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 720,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConcordNh5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 21,164,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConcordNh5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 399,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConcordNh5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 741,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConcordNh5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 21,542,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConcordNh5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,914,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ConcordNh5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Costa Mesa, CA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CostaMesaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,050,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CostaMesaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,969,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CostaMesaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 247,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CostaMesaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,050,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CostaMesaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 20,216,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CostaMesaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,319,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CostaMesaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1965      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Centerville, MA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CentervilleMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CentervilleMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 27,357,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CentervilleMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 372,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CentervilleMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,301,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CentervilleMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 27,728,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CentervilleMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,891,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_CentervilleMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Danvers, MA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 9,503,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DanversMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,120,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DanversMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,557,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DanversMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 467,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DanversMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,129,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DanversMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,015,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DanversMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,326,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_DanversMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Escondido, CA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 12,482,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EscondidoCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,520,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EscondidoCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 24,024,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EscondidoCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 909,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EscondidoCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,520,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EscondidoCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 24,933,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EscondidoCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,978,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EscondidoCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1987      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | East Haven, CT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 22,869,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EastHavenCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,660,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EastHavenCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 35,533,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EastHavenCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,298,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EastHavenCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,681,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EastHavenCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 36,810,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EastHavenCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 7,840,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_EastHavenCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Kingwood, TX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 3,087,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KingwoodTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 480,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KingwoodTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,777,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KingwoodTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 309,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KingwoodTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 480,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KingwoodTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,086,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KingwoodTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,493,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KingwoodTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Mansfield, MA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 28,326,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MansfieldMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 3,320,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MansfieldMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 57,011,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MansfieldMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,863,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MansfieldMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 3,395,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MansfieldMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 58,798,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MansfieldMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 10,606,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MansfieldMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Meriden, CT 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 9,381,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MeridenCt2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MeridenCt2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,874,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MeridenCt2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 510,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MeridenCt2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,525,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MeridenCt2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,360,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MeridenCt2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,612,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MeridenCt2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Milford, CT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 11,527,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilfordCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 3,210,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilfordCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,364,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilfordCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 838,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilfordCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 3,210,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilfordCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,202,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilfordCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,589,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MilfordCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Middletown, CT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 15,451,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MiddletownCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MiddletownCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 24,242,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MiddletownCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 554,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MiddletownCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,439,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MiddletownCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 24,786,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MiddletownCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,604,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MiddletownCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Middletown, RI 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 16,432,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MiddletownRi2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,480,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MiddletownRi2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 24,628,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MiddletownRi2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,060,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MiddletownRi2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,495,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MiddletownRi2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 25,672,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MiddletownRi2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,573,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MiddletownRi2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Mystic, CT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 11,527,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MysticCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MysticCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 18,274,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MysticCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 541,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MysticCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,427,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MysticCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,787,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MysticCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,139,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_MysticCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Newton, MA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 27,958,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewtonMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewtonMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 43,614,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewtonMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 370,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewtonMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,260,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewtonMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 43,975,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewtonMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 6,946,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewtonMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Newton, MA 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 16,177,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewtonMa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewtonMa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 30,681,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewtonMa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,549,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewtonMa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,507,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewtonMa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 32,223,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewtonMa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,458,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewtonMa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Newton, MA 3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewtonMa3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 3,360,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewtonMa3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 25,099,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewtonMa3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 888,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewtonMa3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 3,376,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewtonMa3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 25,971,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewtonMa3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,715,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NewtonMa3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1994      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Niantic, CT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NianticCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,320,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NianticCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 25,986,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NianticCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 4,022,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NianticCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,331,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NianticCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 29,997,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NianticCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,789,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_NianticCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Oceanside, CA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 12,714,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OceansideCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,160,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OceansideCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 18,352,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OceansideCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 811,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OceansideCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,193,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OceansideCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,130,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OceansideCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,363,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_OceansideCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2005      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Providence, RI [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ProvidenceRiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ProvidenceRiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 27,546,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ProvidenceRiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 844,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ProvidenceRiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,639,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ProvidenceRiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 28,351,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ProvidenceRiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 6,482,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ProvidenceRiMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Redondo Beach, CA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RedondoBeachCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RedondoBeachCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,557,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RedondoBeachCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 197,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RedondoBeachCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RedondoBeachCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,754,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RedondoBeachCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,088,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RedondoBeachCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1957      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Renton, WA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 21,945,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RentonWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 3,080,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RentonWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 51,824,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RentonWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 241,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RentonWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 3,080,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RentonWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 52,065,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RentonWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 6,477,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_RentonWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Salem, NH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 20,907,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SalemNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 980,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SalemNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 32,721,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SalemNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 566,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SalemNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,048,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SalemNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 33,218,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SalemNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,725,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SalemNhMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Shelburne, VT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 19,865,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShelburneVtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 720,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShelburneVtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 31,041,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShelburneVtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,199,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShelburneVtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 756,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShelburneVtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 32,204,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShelburneVtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,211,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShelburneVtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1988      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Salt Lake City, UT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SaltLakeCityUtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,360,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SaltLakeCityUtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,691,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SaltLakeCityUtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 590,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SaltLakeCityUtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,360,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SaltLakeCityUtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 20,281,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SaltLakeCityUtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,418,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SaltLakeCityUtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1986      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | San Jose, CA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanJoseCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,850,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanJoseCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 35,098,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanJoseCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 158,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanJoseCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,850,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanJoseCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 35,256,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanJoseCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,353,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SanJoseCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Santa Maria, CA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SantaMariaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 6,050,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SantaMariaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 50,658,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SantaMariaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 584,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SantaMariaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 6,063,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SantaMariaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 51,229,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SantaMariaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 9,445,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SantaMariaCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Sugar Land, TX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 5,460,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SugarLandTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 960,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SugarLandTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 31,423,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SugarLandTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,240,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SugarLandTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 960,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SugarLandTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 32,662,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SugarLandTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,389,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SugarLandTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | South Windsor, CT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SouthWindsorCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 3,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SouthWindsorCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 29,295,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SouthWindsorCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,185,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SouthWindsorCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 3,052,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SouthWindsorCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 30,429,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SouthWindsorCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,686,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SouthWindsorCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Tacoma, WA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 18,640,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TacomaWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TacomaWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 35,053,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TacomaWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 143,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TacomaWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,446,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TacomaWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 35,150,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TacomaWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,399,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TacomaWaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2008      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Trumbull, CT 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 24,647,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TrumbullCt2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,850,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TrumbullCt2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 37,685,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TrumbullCt2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 747,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TrumbullCt2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,906,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TrumbullCt2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 38,376,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TrumbullCt2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 6,994,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TrumbullCt2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Tustin, CA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 6,827,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TustinCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 840,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TustinCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,299,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TustinCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 142,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TustinCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 840,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TustinCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,442,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TustinCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,087,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_TustinCaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1965      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Warwick, RI 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 15,941,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WarwickRi2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WarwickRi2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 24,635,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WarwickRi2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 859,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WarwickRi2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,407,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WarwickRi2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 25,487,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WarwickRi2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,498,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WarwickRi2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Woodlands, TX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 2,477,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WoodlandsTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 480,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WoodlandsTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 12,379,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WoodlandsTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 205,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WoodlandsTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 480,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WoodlandsTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,584,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WoodlandsTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,892,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WoodlandsTxMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Wilbraham, MA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 11,159,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilbrahamMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 660,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilbrahamMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,639,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilbrahamMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 546,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilbrahamMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 663,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilbrahamMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,182,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilbrahamMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 2,796,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WilbrahamMaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Woodbridge, CT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WoodbridgeCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,370,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WoodbridgeCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,219,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WoodbridgeCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 776,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WoodbridgeCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,391,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WoodbridgeCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,974,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WoodbridgeCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,689,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_WoodbridgeCtMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Yarmouth, ME [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 17,412,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_YarmouthMeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_YarmouthMeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 27,711,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_YarmouthMeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 381,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_YarmouthMeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 456,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_YarmouthMeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 28,086,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_YarmouthMeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,026,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_YarmouthMeMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Seattle, WA 2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 48,540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 6,790,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 85,369,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,274,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 6,792,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 86,641,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 11,031,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeattleWa2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Altrincham, England HLB [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HlbMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 5,685,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HlbMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 29,221,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HlbMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 2,045,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HlbMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 5,347,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HlbMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 31,604,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HlbMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,580,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HlbMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Arlington, TX ARL2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 21,858,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_Arl2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,660,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_Arl2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 37,395,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_Arl2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 493,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_Arl2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,660,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_Arl2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 37,888,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_Arl2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 5,390,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_Arl2Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Bagshot, England BAG [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BagMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 6,263,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BagMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 37,667,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BagMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BagMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 6,263,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BagMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 37,667,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BagMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,873,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BagMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Banstead, England BST [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BstMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 8,781,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BstMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 54,836,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BstMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 13,313,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BstMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 8,437,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_BstMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 68,494,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 7,095,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2005      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Buffalo Grove, IL BFG [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,850,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 49,129,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 286,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,850,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_BfgMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 49,415,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 5,301,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2003      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Burbank, CA BRB [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 4,940,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 43,466,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 424,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 4,940,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_BrbMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 43,891,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 5,946,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_BrbMember
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2002      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Carol Stream, IL CAO [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,730,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_CaoMember
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 55,048,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_CaoMember
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 795,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,730,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_CaoMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 55,844,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_CaoMember
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Accumulated Depreciation 6,767,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Denver, CO DVR5 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,910,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 35,838,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 489,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_Dvr5Member
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,930,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_Dvr5Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 36,307,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,926,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Denver, CO DVR4 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 12,745,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_Dvr4Member
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,389,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 625,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_Dvr4Member
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,455,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_Dvr4Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 20,010,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,293,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_Dvr4Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Encino, CA ECN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 5,040,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_EcnMember
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 46,255,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_EcnMember
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 567,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_EcnMember
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Carrying Amount of Land 5,040,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_EcnMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 46,821,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_EcnMember
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Accumulated Depreciation 5,911,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2003      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Fort Worth, TX FWT3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,080,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_Fwt3Member
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 27,888,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_Fwt3Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 850,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_Fwt3Member
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,082,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_Fwt3Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 28,736,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_Fwt3Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,607,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_Fwt3Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Glenview, IL GLV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_GlvMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,090,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_GlvMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 69,288,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_GlvMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 848,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_GlvMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,090,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_GlvMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 70,136,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_GlvMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 8,258,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_GlvMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Houston, TX HOU10 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_Hou10Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 3,830,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_Hou10Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 55,674,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_Hou10Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 4,074,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_Hou10Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 3,830,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_Hou10Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 59,749,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_Hou10Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 8,533,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_Hou10Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Houston, TX HOU11 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 17,923,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_Hou11Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,040,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_Hou11Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 31,965,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_Hou11Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 5,231,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_Hou11Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 1,040,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_Hou11Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 37,196,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_Hou11Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,054,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_Hou11Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Kanata, ON KNA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_KnaMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,955,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 36,314,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,955,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 36,314,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 5,428,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2005      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Leawood, KS LEA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 15,886,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,490,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 32,493,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 695,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 5,617,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 30,061,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,718,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Los Angeles, CA LOA3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,007,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 503,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,510,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,292,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Louisville, KY LOU3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,420,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 20,816,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 372,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,420,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 21,188,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,743,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Memphis, TN MPS5 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,744,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 525,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,269,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,227,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Minnetonka, MN MTK [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 14,462,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,080,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 24,360,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 625,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,131,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 24,935,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,106,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Nashville, TN NSV5 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 35,788,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 493,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 36,281,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 5,856,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Oak Park, IL OKP [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 40,383,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 422,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_OkpMember
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_OkpMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 40,806,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 5,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2004      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Overland Park, KS OVP4 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 3,533,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 16,269,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 813,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,678,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_Ovp4Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,945,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,862,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Pembroke, ON PBK [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,234,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_PbkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 11,894,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_PbkMember
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_PbkMember
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,234,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PbkMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 11,894,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_PbkMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 1,760,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_PbkMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Purley, England PUR [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_PurMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 9,676,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_PurMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 35,251,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_PurMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 8,450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PurMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 9,279,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PurMember
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 44,098,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_PurMember
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Accumulated Depreciation 5,882,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2005      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Rancho Palos Verdes, CA RPV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 5,450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 60,034,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 529,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 5,450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 60,563,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 7,472,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2004      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Roswell, GA RWL3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 2,080,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,486,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 326,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,380,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,512,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,067,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | San Diego, CA SDG3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 5,810,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 63,078,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 541,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 5,810,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 63,619,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 10,073,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | San Jose, CA SNJ2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,280,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 46,823,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 557,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,280,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 47,379,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 5,789,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2002      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Sandy Springs, GA SDS [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,214,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,360,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 265,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,220,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,619,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,507,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Sevenoaks, England SVK [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 7,804,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 50,524,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 7,804,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 50,524,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 6,799,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Sidcup, England SID [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 9,773,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 56,163,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 13,642,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 9,365,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 70,213,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 10,379,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Solihull, England KNL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 6,402,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 54,129,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 6,402,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 54,129,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 6,457,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Sun City West, AZ SCW [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 12,478,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 21,778,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 720,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 22,498,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,287,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Sunnyvale, CA SNY [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 5,420,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 41,682,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 436,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 5,420,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 42,118,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 5,573,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2002      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Suwanee, GA SWE4 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,560,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 11,538,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 422,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,560,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 11,960,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,742,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Tucson, AZ TCS5 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 4,698,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 830,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,179,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 3,305,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 830,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,484,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 804,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Victoria, BC VTA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,189,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 16,793,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,189,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,793,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,708,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2002      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Virginia Water, England VGW [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 7,106,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 29,937,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 7,313,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 6,823,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 37,534,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,708,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2002      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Winchester, England WNC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 7,587,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 36,990,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 7,587,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 36,990,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,347,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2010      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Acton, MA ACT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 31,346,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 443,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 31,786,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,441,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Arnprior, ON ARR [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 747,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 940,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,771,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 570,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 940,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,341,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 897,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1991      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Basking Ridge, NJ BKR [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,356,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 37,710,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 355,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,356,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 38,065,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,839,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2002      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Baton Rouge, LA BTR [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 9,498,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 790,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 29,436,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 124,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 801,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 29,549,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,960,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Beaconsfield, EN BCF [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 7,028,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 64,242,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 7,028,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 64,242,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 6,435,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Beaconsfield, QC BFD [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,335,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 20,797,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,335,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_BfdMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 20,797,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_BfdMember
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,364,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_BfdMember
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2008      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Bedford, NH BED2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 33,076,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,527,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 30,549,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,591,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2012      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Bellevue, WA BVE [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 2,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,004,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 824,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,828,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,714,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Belmont, CA BMH2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 35,300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 541,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 35,841,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,975,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2002      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Bethesda, MD BTH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 45,309,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 390,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 45,698,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,807,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Birmingham, EN BMG [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 5,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 26,540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 5,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 26,540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,072,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Blainville, QC BVL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,478,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,568,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,478,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,568,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,091,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2008      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Burlington, ON BGN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 16,014,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,559,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 22,733,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,559,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 22,733,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,785,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1990      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Bloomfield Hills, MI BLM [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 35,662,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 319,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 35,980,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,640,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Broomfield, CO BMF [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 4,140,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 44,547,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 9,035,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 6,804,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 50,918,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 5,177,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Boulder, CO BOL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,994,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 27,458,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 783,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,994,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 28,242,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,971,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2003      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Bournemouth, EN SBE [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 6,979,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 53,622,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 6,979,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 53,622,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2008      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Braintree, MA BRA3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 21,377,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 382,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 36,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 41,636,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Burlington, MA BGT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,443,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 34,354,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 476,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,522,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 34,752,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,030,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2005      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Calabasas, CA CLS [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,438,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 139,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,577,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,422,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1972      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Calgary, AB CAL2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 15,644,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,685,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 44,195,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,685,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 44,195,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 5,750,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2003      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Calgary, AB CAL3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 18,011,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,319,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 48,797,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,319,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 48,797,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 5,883,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Calgary, AB CAL4 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 14,214,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,709,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 46,309,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,709,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 46,309,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 5,481,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Calgary, AB CAL5 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 22,412,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 4,033,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 34,305,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 4,033,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 34,305,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,862,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1989      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Cardiff, EN CDF [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 4,020,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,610,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 4,020,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,610,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,417,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Cary, NC CRY2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 740,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 45,240,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 162,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 740,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 45,402,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,638,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Chesterfield, MO CHF [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,857,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 48,366,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 353,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,857,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 48,720,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,388,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Chorleywood, EN CYD [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 7,094,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 53,317,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 53,317,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Chula Vista, CA BNA [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,072,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 22,163,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 421,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,072,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 22,584,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2003      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Claremont, CA CMT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,928,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 352,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,438,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,271,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,287,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Cohasset, MA COH2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,485,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 26,147,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 891,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,485,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 27,038,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,824,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Colorado Springs, CO CSP2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,756,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 635,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,391,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,412,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Coquitlam, BC CQT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 12,906,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,623,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 28,904,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,623,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 28,904,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,057,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1990      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Crystal Lake, IL CLA2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 875,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 12,461,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 757,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 875,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,217,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,736,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Decatur, GA DEC2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,932,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 27,523,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 534,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,932,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 28,057,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,411,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Dix Hills, NY DHL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,808,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 39,014,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 328,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,808,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 39,342,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,345,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2003      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Dollard-Des-Ormeaux, QC DDO [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,328,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,169,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,328,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 17,169,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,423,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2008      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Dresher, PA DRS2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 7,358,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,664,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 409,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_Drs2Member
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_Drs2Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 11,073,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,162,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | East Meadow, NY EMD [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 45,991,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 138,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 82,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 46,116,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,972,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2002      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | East Setauket, NY ESK [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 4,920,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 37,354,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 369,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 4,929,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 37,713,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,975,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2002      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Bassett, EN BAT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 6,154,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 39,867,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 6,154,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 39,867,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,737,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Eastbourne, EN EBN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 5,219,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 42,277,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 5,219,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 42,277,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2008      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Edgewater, NJ EDG [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 4,561,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 25,047,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 779,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 4,561,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 25,826,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,889,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Edison, NJ EDS [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,892,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 32,314,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 726,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,892,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 33,040,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 5,771,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Edmonton, AB EDT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 11,604,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,775,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 35,348,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,775,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 35,348,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,643,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Edmonton, AB EDT2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 14,893,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,460,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 43,842,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,460,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 43,842,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 6,049,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1968      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Esher, EN ESH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 7,275,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 60,625,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 7,275,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 60,625,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 5,634,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Fairfax, VA FFX [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 19,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,678,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 43,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 19,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_FfxMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,720,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_FfxMember
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Accumulated Depreciation 503,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1991      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Fairfield, NJ FAF [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,120,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_FafMember
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 43,868,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 620,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,127,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 44,480,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,807,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Flossmoor, IL FLS [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,292,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,496,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 672,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,292,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,169,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,467,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Franklin, MA FKL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 14,129,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 30,597,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 446,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,442,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 31,032,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,674,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Fullerton, CA FUL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 12,999,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,964,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,989,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 307,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,964,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 20,296,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,328,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2008      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Gahanna, OH GAH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 772,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 11,214,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 948,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 779,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,155,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,043,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Gilbert, AZ GLB [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 16,589,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,160,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 28,246,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 236,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,160,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 28,482,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,232,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2008      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Glen Cove, NY GLC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 4,594,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 35,236,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 992,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 4,594,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 36,228,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,949,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Golden Valley, MN GVY [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 20,093,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,520,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 33,513,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 393,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,520,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 33,906,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,263,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2005      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Gross Pointe Woods, MI GPW [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 950,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,662,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 136,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 950,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,798,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,272,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Grosse Pointe Woods, MI GPW2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 31,777,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 32,078,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2005      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Guildford, EN GDF [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 6,769,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 71,005,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 6,769,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 71,005,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 6,885,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Gurnee, IL GUR [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 890,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 27,931,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 730,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 890,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 28,662,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,432,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2002      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Hampshire, EN HMP [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 5,268,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 32,516,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 5,268,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 32,516,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,356,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Henderson, NV HNR4 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 5,777,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,190,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 11,600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 312,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,202,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 11,900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,314,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2008      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Highland Park, IL HDP2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 25,313,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 232,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,259,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 25,536,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,531,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2005      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Holbrook, NY HBK [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,957,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 35,337,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 262,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,957,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 35,599,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,730,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Huntington Beach, CA HGB [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,808,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 31,172,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 508,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,810,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 31,678,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,417,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2004      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Johns Creek, GA JCR [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,580,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 23,285,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 113,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,580,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 23,398,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,563,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Kelowna, BC KEL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 7,291,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,205,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,981,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,205,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,981,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,659,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Kennebunk, ME KBK [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 30,204,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,705,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,973,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 31,636,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,969,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Kitchener, ON KCH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 761,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,990,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 761,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,990,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 492,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1979      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Kitchener, ON KCH2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 5,683,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,348,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 11,779,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,348,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 11,779,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,577,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1988      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Kitchener, ON KCH3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 4,330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,302,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,475,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,302,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,475,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,680,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1964      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | La Palma, CA LPM [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,950,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 16,591,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 311,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,950,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,902,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,860,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2003      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Lafayette Hill, PA LFH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,750,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 11,848,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,164,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,789,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,973,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,004,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Lawrenceville, GA LWV3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 16,177,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 29,003,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 208,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,508,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 29,202,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,241,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2008      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Lenexa, KS LEN2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 9,925,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 826,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 26,251,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 275,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 826,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 26,527,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,086,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Lincroft, NJ LIN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 9,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,958,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 622,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 9,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 20,580,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,090,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2002      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Lombard, IL LMB [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 17,168,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,130,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 59,943,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 215,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,130,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 60,158,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 5,310,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Louisville, KY LOU4 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 11,351,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 20,326,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 161,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 20,487,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,719,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2010      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Lynnfield, MA LYN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,165,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 45,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 942,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,165,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_LynMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 46,142,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_LynMember
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,927,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Malvern, PA MVN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,651,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_MvnMember
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,194,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_MvnMember
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 996,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_MvnMember
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,653,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_MvnMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,188,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_MvnMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 3,163,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_MvnMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Markham, ON MKH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 19,991,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 4,446,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 57,556,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 4,446,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 57,556,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 7,645,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1981      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Marlboro, NJ MBO [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,222,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,888,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 366,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,222,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,254,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,860,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2002      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Metairie, LA MET [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 13,456,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 725,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 27,708,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 254,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 725,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 27,962,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,596,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Minnetonka, MN MTK2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 16,532,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 920,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 29,344,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 233,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 920,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 29,577,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,664,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Mississauga, ON MSS [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 11,074,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,909,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 21,371,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,909,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 21,371,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,755,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1984      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Mississauga, ON MSS2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 3,727,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,121,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 5,308,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 29,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,025,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,432,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 675,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1978      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Mobberley, EN MBB [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 6,497,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 33,425,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 6,497,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 33,425,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 5,408,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Monterey, CA MTY [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 6,440,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 29,101,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 318,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 6,440,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 29,419,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,190,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Montgomery Village, MD MVG [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,530,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 18,246,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,421,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,544,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,653,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,819,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1993      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Moose Jaw, SK MJW [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 3,344,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 692,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,150,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 692,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,150,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,980,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Naperville, IL NPR4 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 28,204,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 390,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 28,594,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,322,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2002      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Newtown Square, PA NTS [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,930,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,420,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 394,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,941,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,803,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,772,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2004      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | North Tustin, CA NTT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,880,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 18,059,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 201,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,880,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_NttMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,260,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,514,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Oakland, CA OAK [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,877,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 47,508,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 701,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,877,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_OakMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 48,208,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 5,383,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Oakton, VA OKN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_OknMember
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 37,576,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,137,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,252,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_OknMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 38,710,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,902,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Oakville, ON OKV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 1,819,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,622,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_OkvMember
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,357,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 10,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_OkvMember
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,494,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_OkvMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,494,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_OkvMember
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,156,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1982      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Oakville, ON OKV2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 12,660,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,539,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 35,287,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,539,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_Okv2Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 35,287,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 5,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1994      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Oakville, ON OKV3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 6,596,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,516,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 16,093,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,516,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_Okv3Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,093,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,759,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1988      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Oshawa, ON OHW [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 4,005,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,002,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_OhwMember
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,895,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_OhwMember
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,002,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_OhwMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,895,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_OhwMember
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1991      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Ottawa, ON OTT4 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 3,658,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_Ott4Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 895,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_Ott4Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 4,998,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_Ott4Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 476,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_Ott4Member
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Carrying Amount of Land 809,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_Ott4Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,560,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_Ott4Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 713,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_Ott4Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1995      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Ottawa, ON OTT5 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 818,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_Ott5Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,165,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_Ott5Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,572,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_Ott5Member
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Carrying Amount of Land 753,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_Ott5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,803,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_Ott5Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 520,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_Ott5Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1993      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Ottawa, ON OTT6 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 13,292,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 32,372,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,351,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 32,372,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 5,237,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Ottawa, ON OTT7 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 5,852,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,329,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 11,519,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,329,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 11,519,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Ottawa, ON OTT8 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 4,292,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 959,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 9,029,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 47,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 887,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,148,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,137,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Palo Alto, CA PAO [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 17,129,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 39,639,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 627,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 40,267,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,188,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Paramus, NJ PAM [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,840,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 35,728,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 761,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,845,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 36,484,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,491,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Pittsburgh, PA PSB2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,580,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 18,017,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 245,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,580,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,262,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,342,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Plainview, NY PLV2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,066,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,901,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 208,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,071,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 20,104,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,811,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Plano, TX PLO5 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 29,228,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,120,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 59,950,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 276,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,120,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 60,226,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 6,807,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Playa Vista, CA PYV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,580,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 40,531,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 481,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,580,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 41,012,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,541,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Rancho Cucamonga, CA RCG [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,480,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,055,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 304,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,487,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_RcgMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,351,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,536,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Randolph, NJ RDP [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 46,934,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_RdpMember
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 238,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_RdpMember
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 47,172,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,896,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Regina, SK RGN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 8,696,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,771,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 25,011,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,771,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 25,011,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,179,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Regina, SK RGN2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 8,332,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,482,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 24,918,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,482,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 24,918,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,768,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2004      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Roseville, MN RSV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 35,877,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 354,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,585,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 36,186,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,344,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2002      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Sacramento, CA SAC3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 23,394,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 256,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,304,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 23,646,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,274,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2004      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | San Diego, CA SDG4 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 27,164,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 271,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 27,434,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,449,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2003      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | San Gabriel, CA SGB [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,120,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,566,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 335,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,120,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,901,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,825,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2005      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Santa Monica, CA SMC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 20,302,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 5,250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 28,340,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 352,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 5,250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 28,693,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,958,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2004      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Saskatoon, SK SSK [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 5,365,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,168,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 16,235,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,168,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,235,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,631,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Saskatoon, SK SSK2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 12,366,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,647,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 20,530,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,647,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 20,530,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,096,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2004      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Schaumburg, IL SHG [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,460,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 22,863,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 599,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,471,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_ShgMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 23,451,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,195,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Seal Beach, CA SBC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 6,204,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 72,954,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 689,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 6,208,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 73,639,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 11,648,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2004      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Shelby Township, MI STS [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 16,789,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,040,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 26,344,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 316,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,093,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 26,607,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,539,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Simi Valley, CA SVY [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 16,664,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 287,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,951,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,728,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Solihull, EN SOL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 4,510,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 32,605,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 4,510,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 32,605,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,020,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2007      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Sonning, EN SNG [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 7,099,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 53,058,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 7,099,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 53,058,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 5,801,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Spokane, WA SKN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 25,064,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 223,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 25,287,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,698,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Spokane, WA SKN2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,580,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 25,342,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,580,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 25,442,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,501,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Stittsville, ON SSL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 5,946,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,529,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,762,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 2,581,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,402,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 20,470,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,075,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1996      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Stockport, EN SKP [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 5,516,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 31,307,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 5,516,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 31,307,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,465,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2008      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Studio City, CA SDC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 4,006,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 25,307,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 361,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 4,017,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 25,657,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,555,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2004      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Surrey, BC SRY2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 8,833,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 4,298,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 21,938,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 4,298,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 21,938,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,286,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Surrey, BC SRY3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 4,182,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 26,369,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 5,431,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 26,369,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,637,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1987      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Swift Current, SK SCR [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 2,981,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 569,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 11,821,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 569,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 11,821,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,469,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Toronto, ON TRT4 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 1,901,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,287,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,247,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,287,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,247,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 680,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1982      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Toronto, ON TRT5 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 10,411,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,998,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 23,165,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,998,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 23,165,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,797,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2002      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Toronto, ON TRT6 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 22,708,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 4,055,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 38,437,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 4,055,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 38,437,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 5,038,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1973      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Toronto, ON TRT7 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 1,480,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,767,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 2,730,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 373,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,622,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,248,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 879,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1985      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Toronto, ON TRT8 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 2,399,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,851,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,785,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 589,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,726,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,499,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 734,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1987      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Toronto, ON TRT9 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 40,022,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 6,321,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 62,703,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 6,321,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 62,703,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 8,315,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1988      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Upper St Claire, PA USC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,102,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,455,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 406,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,102,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,861,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,999,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2005      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Vankleek Hill, ON VKH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 1,414,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 435,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 3,448,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 435,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,448,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 554,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1987      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Victoria, BC VTA2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 9,277,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,405,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 21,327,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,405,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 21,327,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,221,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1974      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Victoria, BC VTA3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 8,553,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 4,359,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 18,642,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 4,359,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,642,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,889,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1988      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Walnut Creek, CA WLC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 12,467,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 724,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,723,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,169,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,234,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Washington, DC WSH2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 32,699,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 4,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 69,154,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 439,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 4,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 69,593,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 7,335,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2004      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Wayland, MA WAY [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,207,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 27,462,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 864,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,307,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 28,226,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,064,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1997      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | West Babylon, NY WBB [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,960,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 47,085,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 261,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,960,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 47,346,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,438,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2003      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | West Bloomfield, MI WBF [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,040,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 12,300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 345,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,040,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,646,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,411,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | West Hills, CA WHL [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,521,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 315,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,836,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,565,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2002      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | West Vancouver, BC WVR [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 23,475,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 9,128,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 32,217,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 105,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 8,421,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 33,028,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,501,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1987      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Westbourne, EN WTB [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 6,858,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 51,920,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 6,858,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 51,920,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 5,870,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2006      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Weston, MA WTN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,160,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 447,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,160,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,647,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 535,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1998      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Weybridge, EN WEY [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 9,954,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Land 9,954,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 60,475,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 8,851,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2008      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | White Oak, MD WHO [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,304,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 24,768,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 574,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,304,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 25,342,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,376,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2002      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Wilmington, DE WGT2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 1,040,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 23,338,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 405,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,040,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 23,743,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,618,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2004      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Winnipeg, MB WNN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 16,462,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,335,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 45,398,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,335,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 45,398,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 6,374,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1999      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Winnipeg, MB WNN2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 9,630,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,516,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 25,633,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,516,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 25,633,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 3,092,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1988      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Wolverhampton, EN WLV [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,708,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,876,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,708,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,876,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,217,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2008      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Woodland Hills, CA WDH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 20,478,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 377,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,406,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 20,849,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 2,797,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2005      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Yonkers, NY YNK [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,962,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 50,107,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 356,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,967,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 50,459,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 5,226,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2005      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Yorkton, SK YKT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 4,172,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 552,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 10,218,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 552,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,218,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,252,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2001      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Atlanta, GA ATL4 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 2,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 20,603,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 20,603,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,240,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2000      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Austin, TX ATN3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,560,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 21,413,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_Atn3Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,560,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 21,413,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 117,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Buckingham, UKJ BKG [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 3,762,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 17,455,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1883      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Basingstoke, UKJ BSK [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 4,318,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Land 4,318,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 24,006,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 331,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2012      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Bethesda, MD BTHAU [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 45,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 45,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Bethesda, MD BTHMC [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 101,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 101,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 4,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2009      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Camberley, UKJ CBL2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements (19,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements (19,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation (22,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1957      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Camberley, UKJ CBL3 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 2,804,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 6,092,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,804,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,092,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 103,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1957      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Church Crookham, UKJ CCK [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 3,271,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 17,962,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,271,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 17,962,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,129,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2014      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Fareham, UKJ FRH [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 4,300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 22,743,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 4,300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 22,743,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 468,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2012      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Frome, UKK FRO [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,435,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_FroMember
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 18,756,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_FroMember
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,435,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,756,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_FroMember
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Accumulated Depreciation 311,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2012      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Horley, UKJ HLE [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_HleMember
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Initial Cost of Land 2,944,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_HleMember
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 15,379,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_HleMember
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_HleMember
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,944,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_HleMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,379,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_HleMember
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Accumulated Depreciation 817,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_HleMember
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2014      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Hove, UKJ HVE [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_HveMember
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Initial Cost of Land 1,717,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 8,430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,717,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 273,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1987      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | London, UKI LDN [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,941,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 12,591,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,941,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,591,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2012      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Newmarket, UKH NWM [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 5,141,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 13,478,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 5,141,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,478,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 80,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2011      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | St. Albert, AB SAT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 10,979,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,365,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 21,172,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,365,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 21,172,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 1,387,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2005      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Salisbury, UKK SSB [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 3,435,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,365,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,435,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,365,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 220,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Sway, UKJ SWY [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 5,234,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 19,285,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 5,234,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,285,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 322,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2008      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Weymouth, UKK WYT [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
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Initial Cost of Land 3,271,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 21,011,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 3,271,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_WytMember
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 21,011,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 235,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2014      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Peabody, MA PBD2 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 6,446,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 18,543,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 2,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_PeabodyMaPbd2Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,343,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_PeabodyMaPbd2Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 264,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1994      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Arlington, TX 1374 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 82,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 18,243,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 82,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_ArlingtonTx1374Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,243,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_ArlingtonTx1374Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 274,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_ArlingtonTx1374Member
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2012      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Bettendorf, IA 1394 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 7,110,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,110,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_BettendorfIa1394Member
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Accumulated Depreciation 30,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2014      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Burnsville, MN 1379 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_BurnsvilleMn1379Member
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 32,168,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_BurnsvilleMn1379Member
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 32,168,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 337,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2014      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Clear Lake, TX 1383 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,027,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,027,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 117,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2014      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Coon Rapids, MN 1371 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 26,679,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 26,679,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 894,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2014      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Fort Worth, TX 1373 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 462,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_FortWorthTx1373Member
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Carrying Amount of Land 462,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_FortWorthTx1373Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 26,020,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_FortWorthTx1373Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 399,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2012      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2012      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Humble, TX 1386 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,358,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Accumulated Depreciation 43,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2014      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Lenexa, KS 1375 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 14,364,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_LenexaKs1375Member
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Carrying Amount of Land 100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_LenexaKs1375Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,364,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_LenexaKs1375Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 328,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_LenexaKs1375Member
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2013      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Reno, NV 1116 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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Initial Cost of Land 1,117,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 21,972,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 1,144,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_RenoNv1116Member
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,117,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_RenoNv1116Member
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Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 23,116,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 6,412,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2006      
Year Built Jan. 01, 1991      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Rogers, AR 1309 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 1,062,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_RogersAr1309Member
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Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 29,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_RogersAr1309Member
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Carrying Amount of Land 1,062,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
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= hcn_RogersAr1309Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 29,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_RogersAr1309Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 4,474,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
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= hcn_RogersAr1309Member
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2011      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2008      
Seniors Housing Operating [Member] | Shenandoah, TX 1393 [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
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= hcn_ShenandoahTx1393Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 21,653,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShenandoahTx1393Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShenandoahTx1393Member
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 21,653,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hcn_ShenandoahTx1393Member
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= hcn_SeniorsHousingOperatingMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
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Year Acquired Jan. 01, 2013      
Year Built Jan. 01, 2014      
Total investments in real property owned [Member]        
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation        
Initial Cost of Encumbrances 2,934,568,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
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= hcn_TotalInvestmentsInRealPropertyOwnedMember
     
Initial Cost of Land 2,086,785,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_TotalInvestmentsInRealPropertyOwnedMember
     
Initial Cost of Buildings & Improvements 23,400,855,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
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= hcn_TotalInvestmentsInRealPropertyOwnedMember
     
Cost Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition 864,369,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
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= hcn_TotalInvestmentsInRealPropertyOwnedMember
     
Carrying Amount of Land 2,046,541,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_TotalInvestmentsInRealPropertyOwnedMember
     
Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 23,445,394,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_TotalInvestmentsInRealPropertyOwnedMember
     
Accumulated Depreciation $ 3,020,908,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ hcn_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationPropertyAxis
= hcn_TotalInvestmentsInRealPropertyOwnedMember