EXHIBIT 23.1


                         CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS

We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement (Form
S-8) pertaining to the Ventas, Inc. Common Stock Purchase Plan for Directors of
our report dated April 2, 2001, with respect to the consolidated financial
statements and schedule of Ventas, Inc. included in its Annual Report (Form
10-K) for the year ended December 31, 2000, filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission.

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Louisville, Kentucky
May 23, 2001