Derivative Instruments (Textual) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2016	Mar. 31, 2015
Derivative Instruments [Abstract]
Cash Flow Hedge Gain Loss To Be Reclassified Within Twelve Months 2	$ 1,412
Derivative Cash Received On Hedge	$ 0	$ 72,477

The estimated net amount of existing gains or losses on cash flow hedges at the reporting date expected to be reclassified to earnings within the next 12 months.

No definition available.

Name:	hcn_Cashflowhedgegainlosstobereclassifiedwithintwelvemonths2
Namespace Prefix:	hcn_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	duration