XML 31 R76.htm IDEA: XBRL DOCUMENT v2.4.1.9
Schedule III - Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation Schedule III - Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation (Details) (USD $)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2013
Dec. 31, 2012
Dec. 31, 2011
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances $ 47,352,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 127,566,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 1,845,610,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 15,674,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 127,565,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 1,861,284,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 1,988,849,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue 1,422,002,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue 698,536,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue 541,493,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 212,300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation 174,262,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation 163,146,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation 146,698,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life 40 years 0 months 0 days      
Entity Incorporate, Date of Incorporation, Year 1991      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Federal Income Tax Basis 1,742,086us-gaap_RealEstateFederalIncomeTaxBasis      
Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 25,350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 417,270,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 25,350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 417,270,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 442,620,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 129,074,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
     
Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 47,352,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 31,299,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 405,522,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 1,627,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 31,299,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 407,149,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 438,448,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 35,618,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
     
Independent Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 22,108,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 480,504,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 22,108,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 480,504,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 502,612,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 18,935,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
     
Senior Living Campus [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 9,651,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 59,759,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 6,398,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 9,651,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 66,157,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 75,808,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 13,442,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
     
Entrance-Fee Communities [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 31,040,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 436,120,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 31,040,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 436,120,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 467,160,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
     
Medical Office Building [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_MedicalOfficeBuildingMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 796,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_MedicalOfficeBuildingMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 9,690,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_MedicalOfficeBuildingMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_MedicalOfficeBuildingMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 796,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_MedicalOfficeBuildingMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,690,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_MedicalOfficeBuildingMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 10,486,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_MedicalOfficeBuildingMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 6,505,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_MedicalOfficeBuildingMember
     
Hospital [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_HospitalMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 7,164,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_HospitalMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 36,068,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_HospitalMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 7,583,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_HospitalMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 7,164,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_HospitalMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 43,651,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_HospitalMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 50,815,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_HospitalMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 8,549,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_HospitalMember
     
Total Continuing Operations Properties [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 47,352,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_TotalContinuingOperationsPropertiesMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 127,408,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_TotalContinuingOperationsPropertiesMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 1,844,933,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_TotalContinuingOperationsPropertiesMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 15,608,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_TotalContinuingOperationsPropertiesMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 127,408,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_TotalContinuingOperationsPropertiesMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 1,860,541,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_TotalContinuingOperationsPropertiesMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 1,987,949,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_TotalContinuingOperationsPropertiesMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 212,123,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_TotalContinuingOperationsPropertiesMember
     
Corporate Office [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_CorporateOfficeMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 158,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_CorporateOfficeMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 677,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_CorporateOfficeMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 66,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_CorporateOfficeMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 157,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_CorporateOfficeMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 743,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_CorporateOfficeMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 900,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_CorporateOfficeMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 177,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_CorporateOfficeMember
     
Anniston, AL [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AnnistonAlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 70,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AnnistonAlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 4,477,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AnnistonAlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AnnistonAlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 70,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AnnistonAlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,477,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AnnistonAlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 4,547,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AnnistonAlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation   3,206,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AnnistonAlMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 17, 1991      
Moulton, AL [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MoultonAlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 25,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MoultonAlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 688,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MoultonAlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MoultonAlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 25,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MoultonAlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 688,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MoultonAlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 713,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MoultonAlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 688,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MoultonAlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 17, 1991      
Avondale, AZ [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AvondaleAzMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 453,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AvondaleAzMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 6,678,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AvondaleAzMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AvondaleAzMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 453,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AvondaleAzMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,678,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AvondaleAzMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 7,131,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AvondaleAzMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,241,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AvondaleAzMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Aug. 13, 1996      
Brooksville, FL [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BrooksvilleFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,217,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BrooksvilleFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 16,166,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BrooksvilleFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BrooksvilleFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 1,217,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BrooksvilleFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,166,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BrooksvilleFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 17,383,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BrooksvilleFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,987,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BrooksvilleFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Feb. 01, 2010      
Crystal River, FL [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CrystalRiverFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 912,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CrystalRiverFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 12,117,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CrystalRiverFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CrystalRiverFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 912,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CrystalRiverFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,117,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CrystalRiverFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 13,029,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CrystalRiverFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,489,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CrystalRiverFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Feb. 01, 2010      
Dade City, FL [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_DadeCityFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 605,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_DadeCityFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 8,042,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_DadeCityFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_DadeCityFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 605,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_DadeCityFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,042,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_DadeCityFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 8,647,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_DadeCityFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 988,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_DadeCityFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Feb. 01, 2010      
Hudson, FL [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HudsonFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HudsonFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 22,392,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HudsonFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HudsonFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 1,290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HudsonFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 22,392,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HudsonFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 23,682,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HudsonFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 8,942,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HudsonFlMember
     
Real Estate And Accumulated Depreciation Date Acquired String Various      
Merritt Island, FL [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MerrittIslandFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 701,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MerrittIslandFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 8,869,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MerrittIslandFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MerrittIslandFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 701,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MerrittIslandFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,869,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MerrittIslandFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 9,570,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MerrittIslandFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 6,546,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MerrittIslandFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 17, 1991      
New Port Richey, FL [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_NewPortRicheyFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 228,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_NewPortRicheyFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 3,023,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_NewPortRicheyFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_NewPortRicheyFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 228,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_NewPortRicheyFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,023,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_NewPortRicheyFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 3,251,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_NewPortRicheyFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 372,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_NewPortRicheyFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Feb. 01, 2010      
Plant City, FL [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PlantCityFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 405,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PlantCityFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 8,777,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PlantCityFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PlantCityFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 405,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PlantCityFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,777,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PlantCityFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 9,182,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PlantCityFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 6,634,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PlantCityFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 17, 1991      
Stuart, FL [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_StuartFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 787,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_StuartFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 9,048,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_StuartFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_StuartFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 787,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_StuartFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,048,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_StuartFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 9,835,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_StuartFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 6,771,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_StuartFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 17, 1991      
Trenton, FL [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_TrentonFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 851,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_TrentonFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 11,312,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_TrentonFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_TrentonFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 851,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_TrentonFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 11,312,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_TrentonFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 12,163,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_TrentonFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,390,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_TrentonFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Feb. 01, 2010      
Grangeville, ID [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GrangevilleIdMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 122,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GrangevilleIdMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 2,491,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GrangevilleIdMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GrangevilleIdMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 122,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GrangevilleIdMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,491,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GrangevilleIdMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 2,613,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GrangevilleIdMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,229,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GrangevilleIdMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Aug. 13, 1996      
Glasgow, KY [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GlasgowKyMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 33,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GlasgowKyMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 2,110,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GlasgowKyMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GlasgowKyMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 33,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GlasgowKyMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,110,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GlasgowKyMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 2,143,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GlasgowKyMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,902,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GlasgowKyMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 17, 1991      
Greenfield, MA [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenfieldMAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 370,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenfieldMAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 4,341,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenfieldMAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenfieldMAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 370,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenfieldMAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,341,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenfieldMAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 4,711,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenfieldMAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 153,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenfieldMAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Aug. 30, 2013      
Holyoke, MA [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HolyokeMAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 110,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HolyokeMAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 943,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HolyokeMAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HolyokeMAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 110,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HolyokeMAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 943,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HolyokeMAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 1,053,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HolyokeMAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 35,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HolyokeMAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Aug. 30, 2013      
Quincy, MA [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_QuincyMAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_QuincyMAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 710,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_QuincyMAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_QuincyMAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_QuincyMAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 710,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_QuincyMAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 1,160,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_QuincyMAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 24,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_QuincyMAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Aug. 30, 2013      
Taunton, MA [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_TauntonMAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_TauntonMAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 5,906,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_TauntonMAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_TauntonMAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_TauntonMAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,906,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_TauntonMAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 6,806,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_TauntonMAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 210,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_TauntonMAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Aug. 30, 2013      
Desloge, MO [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_DeslogeMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 178,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_DeslogeMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 3,804,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_DeslogeMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_DeslogeMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 178,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_DeslogeMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,804,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_DeslogeMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 3,982,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_DeslogeMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,989,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_DeslogeMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 17, 1991      
Joplin, MO [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_JoplinMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 175,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_JoplinMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 4,034,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_JoplinMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_JoplinMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 175,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_JoplinMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,034,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_JoplinMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 4,209,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_JoplinMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,501,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_JoplinMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 17, 1991      
Kennett, MO [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_KennettMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 180,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_KennettMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 4,928,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_KennettMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_KennettMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 180,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_KennettMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,928,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_KennettMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 5,108,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_KennettMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,919,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_KennettMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 17, 1991      
Maryland Heights, MO [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MarylandHeightsMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 482,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MarylandHeightsMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 5,512,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MarylandHeightsMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MarylandHeightsMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 482,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MarylandHeightsMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,512,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MarylandHeightsMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 5,994,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MarylandHeightsMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 4,953,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MarylandHeightsMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 17, 1991      
St. Charles, MO [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_StCharlesMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 150,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_StCharlesMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 4,790,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_StCharlesMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_StCharlesMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 150,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_StCharlesMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,790,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_StCharlesMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 4,940,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_StCharlesMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,757,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_StCharlesMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 17, 1991      
St. Charles, MO [Member] | Independent Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_StCharlesMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 344,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_StCharlesMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 3,181,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_StCharlesMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_StCharlesMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 344,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_StCharlesMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,181,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_StCharlesMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 3,525,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_StCharlesMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,284,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_StCharlesMoMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 17, 1991      
Voorhees, NJ [Member] | Independent Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_VoorheesNJMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 670,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_VoorheesNJMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 23,710,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_VoorheesNJMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_VoorheesNJMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 670,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_VoorheesNJMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 23,710,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_VoorheesNJMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 24,380,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_VoorheesNJMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 633,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_VoorheesNJMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 23, 2013      
Gahanna, OH [Member] | Independent Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GahannaOHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 920,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GahannaOHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 22,919,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GahannaOHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GahannaOHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 920,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GahannaOHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 22,919,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GahannaOHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 23,839,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GahannaOHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 629,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GahannaOHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 23, 2013      
Broken Arrow, OK [Member] | Independent Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BrokenArrowOKMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 2,660,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BrokenArrowOKMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 18,476,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BrokenArrowOKMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BrokenArrowOKMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 2,660,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BrokenArrowOKMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,476,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BrokenArrowOKMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 21,136,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BrokenArrowOKMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 513,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BrokenArrowOKMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 23, 2013      
Albany, OR [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AlbanyORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 190,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AlbanyORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 11,150,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AlbanyORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AlbanyORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 190,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AlbanyORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 11,150,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AlbanyORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 11,340,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AlbanyORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 219,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AlbanyORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Mar. 31, 2014      
Creswell, OR [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CreswellORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 470,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CreswellORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 9,642,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CreswellORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CreswellORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 470,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CreswellORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,642,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CreswellORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 10,112,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CreswellORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 205,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CreswellORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Mar. 31, 2014      
Forest Grove, OR [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ForestGroveORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ForestGroveORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 12,277,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ForestGroveORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ForestGroveORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ForestGroveORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,277,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ForestGroveORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 12,817,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ForestGroveORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 257,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ForestGroveORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Mar. 31, 2014      
Newberg, OR [Member] | Independent Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_NewbergORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,080,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_NewbergORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 19,187,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_NewbergORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_NewbergORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 1,080,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_NewbergORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,187,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_NewbergORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 20,267,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_NewbergORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 529,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_NewbergORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 23, 2013      
Myrtle Beach, SC [Member] | Independent Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MyrtleBeachSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,310,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MyrtleBeachSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 26,229,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MyrtleBeachSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MyrtleBeachSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 1,310,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MyrtleBeachSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 26,229,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MyrtleBeachSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 27,539,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MyrtleBeachSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 702,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MyrtleBeachSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 23, 2013      
Myrtle Beach, SC [Member] | Entrance-Fee Communities [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MyrtleBeachSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 3,910,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MyrtleBeachSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 82,140,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MyrtleBeachSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MyrtleBeachSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 3,910,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MyrtleBeachSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 82,140,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MyrtleBeachSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 86,050,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MyrtleBeachSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MyrtleBeachSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 17, 2014      
Greenville, SC [Member] | Independent Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenvilleSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 560,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenvilleSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 16,547,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenvilleSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenvilleSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 560,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenvilleSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,547,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenvilleSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 17,107,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenvilleSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 460,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenvilleSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 23, 2013      
Greenville, SC [Member] | Entrance-Fee Communities [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenvilleSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 5,850,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenvilleSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 90,760,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenvilleSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenvilleSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 5,850,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenvilleSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 90,760,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenvilleSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 96,610,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenvilleSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenvilleSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 17, 2014      
Manchester, NH [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ManchesterNHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 790,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ManchesterNHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 20,077,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ManchesterNHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ManchesterNHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 790,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ManchesterNHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 20,077,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ManchesterNHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 20,867,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ManchesterNHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 693,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ManchesterNHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Aug. 30, 2013      
Epsom, NH [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_EpsomNHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 630,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_EpsomNHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 2,191,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_EpsomNHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_EpsomNHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 630,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_EpsomNHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,191,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_EpsomNHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 2,821,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_EpsomNHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 81,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_EpsomNHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Aug. 30, 2013      
Anderson, SC [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AndersonScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 308,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AndersonScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 4,643,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AndersonScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AndersonScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 308,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AndersonScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,643,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AndersonScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 4,951,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AndersonScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,998,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AndersonScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 17, 1991      
Greenwood, SC [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenwoodScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 222,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenwoodScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 3,457,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenwoodScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenwoodScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 222,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenwoodScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,457,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenwoodScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 3,679,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenwoodScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,925,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenwoodScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 17, 1991      
Laurens, SC [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LaurensScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 42,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LaurensScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 3,426,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LaurensScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LaurensScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 42,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LaurensScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,426,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LaurensScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 3,468,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LaurensScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,685,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LaurensScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 17, 1991      
Orangeburg, SC [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_OrangeburgScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_OrangeburgScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 3,715,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_OrangeburgScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_OrangeburgScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_OrangeburgScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,715,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_OrangeburgScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 4,015,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_OrangeburgScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 640,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_OrangeburgScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Sep. 25, 2008      
Athens, TN [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AthensTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 38,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AthensTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 1,463,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AthensTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AthensTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 38,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AthensTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 1,463,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AthensTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 1,501,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AthensTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,314,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AthensTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 17, 1991      
Chattanooga, TN [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ChattanoogaTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 143,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ChattanoogaTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 2,309,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ChattanoogaTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ChattanoogaTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 143,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ChattanoogaTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,309,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ChattanoogaTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 2,452,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ChattanoogaTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,044,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ChattanoogaTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 17, 1991      
Chattanooga, TN [Member] | Independent Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ChattanoogaTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 9,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ChattanoogaTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 1,567,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ChattanoogaTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ChattanoogaTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 9,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ChattanoogaTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 1,567,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ChattanoogaTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 1,576,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ChattanoogaTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,148,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ChattanoogaTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 17, 1991      
Dickson, TN [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_DicksonTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 90,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_DicksonTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 3,541,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_DicksonTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_DicksonTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 90,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_DicksonTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,541,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_DicksonTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 3,631,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_DicksonTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,798,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_DicksonTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 17, 1991      
Franklin, TN [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FranklinTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 47,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FranklinTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 1,130,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FranklinTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FranklinTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 47,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FranklinTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 1,130,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FranklinTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 1,177,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FranklinTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 955,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FranklinTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 17, 1991      
Hendersonville, TN [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HendersonvilleTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 363,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HendersonvilleTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 3,837,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HendersonvilleTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HendersonvilleTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 363,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HendersonvilleTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,837,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HendersonvilleTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 4,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HendersonvilleTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,667,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HendersonvilleTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 17, 1991      
Johnson City, TN [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_JohnsonCityTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 85,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_JohnsonCityTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 1,918,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_JohnsonCityTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_JohnsonCityTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 85,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_JohnsonCityTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 1,918,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_JohnsonCityTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 2,003,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_JohnsonCityTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,788,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_JohnsonCityTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 17, 1991      
Johnson City, TN [Member] | Independent Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_JohnsonCityTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 55,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_JohnsonCityTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 4,077,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_JohnsonCityTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_JohnsonCityTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 55,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_JohnsonCityTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,077,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_JohnsonCityTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 4,132,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_JohnsonCityTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,588,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_JohnsonCityTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 17, 1991      
Lewisburg, TN [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LewisburgTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 46,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LewisburgTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 994,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LewisburgTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LewisburgTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 46,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LewisburgTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 994,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LewisburgTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 1,040,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LewisburgTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 928,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LewisburgTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 17, 1991      
McMinnville, TN [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_McminnvilleTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 73,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_McminnvilleTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 3,618,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_McminnvilleTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_McminnvilleTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 73,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_McminnvilleTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,618,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_McminnvilleTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 3,691,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_McminnvilleTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,814,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_McminnvilleTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 17, 1991      
Milan, TN [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MilanTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 41,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MilanTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 1,826,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MilanTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MilanTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 41,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MilanTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 1,826,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MilanTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 1,867,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MilanTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,545,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MilanTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 17, 1991      
Pulaski, TN [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PulaskiTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 53,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PulaskiTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 3,921,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PulaskiTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PulaskiTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 53,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PulaskiTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,921,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PulaskiTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 3,974,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PulaskiTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,090,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PulaskiTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 17, 1991      
Lawrenburg, TN [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LawrenburgTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 98,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LawrenburgTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 2,901,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LawrenburgTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LawrenburgTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 98,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LawrenburgTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,901,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LawrenburgTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 2,999,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LawrenburgTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,113,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LawrenburgTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 17, 1991      
Dunlap, TN [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_DunlapTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 35,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_DunlapTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 3,679,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_DunlapTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_DunlapTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 35,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_DunlapTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,679,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_DunlapTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 3,714,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_DunlapTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,651,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_DunlapTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 17, 1991      
Smithville, TN [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SmithvilleTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 35,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SmithvilleTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 3,816,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SmithvilleTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SmithvilleTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 35,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SmithvilleTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,816,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SmithvilleTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 3,851,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SmithvilleTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,923,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SmithvilleTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 18, 1991      
Somerville, TN [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SomervilleTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 26,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SomervilleTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 678,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SomervilleTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SomervilleTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 26,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SomervilleTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 678,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SomervilleTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 704,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SomervilleTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 637,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SomervilleTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 19, 1991      
Sparta, TN [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SpartaTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 80,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SpartaTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 1,602,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SpartaTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SpartaTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 80,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SpartaTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 1,602,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SpartaTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 1,682,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SpartaTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,311,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SpartaTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 20, 1991      
Canton, TX [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CantonTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 420,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CantonTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 12,330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CantonTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CantonTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 420,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CantonTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CantonTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 12,750,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CantonTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 682,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CantonTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Apr. 18, 2013      
Corinth, TX [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CorinthTXMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,075,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CorinthTXMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 13,935,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CorinthTXMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CorinthTXMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 1,075,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CorinthTXMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,935,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CorinthTXMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 15,010,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CorinthTXMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 829,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CorinthTXMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Apr. 18, 2013      
Ennis, TX [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_EnnisTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 986,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_EnnisTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 9,025,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_EnnisTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_EnnisTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 986,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_EnnisTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,025,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_EnnisTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 10,011,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_EnnisTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,015,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_EnnisTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 31, 2011      
Greenville, TX [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenvilleTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenvilleTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 13,948,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenvilleTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenvilleTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 1,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenvilleTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,948,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenvilleTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 15,748,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenvilleTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,409,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenvilleTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 31, 2011      
Houston, TX [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HoustonTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 3,818,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HoustonTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 63,921,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HoustonTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HoustonTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 3,818,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HoustonTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 63,921,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HoustonTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 67,739,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HoustonTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 10,255,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HoustonTxMember
     
Real Estate And Accumulated Depreciation Date Acquired String Various      
Kyle, TX [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_KyleTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,096,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_KyleTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 12,279,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_KyleTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_KyleTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 1,096,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_KyleTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,279,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_KyleTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 13,375,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_KyleTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,114,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_KyleTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Jun. 11, 2012      
Mesquite, TX [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MesquiteTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 180,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MesquiteTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 6,162,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MesquiteTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MesquiteTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 180,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MesquiteTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,162,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MesquiteTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 6,342,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MesquiteTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,365,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MesquiteTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Sep. 01, 1998      
Paris, TX [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ParisTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 60,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ParisTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 12,040,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ParisTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ParisTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 60,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ParisTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,040,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ParisTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 12,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ParisTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,017,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ParisTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Jun. 30, 2009      
San Antonio, TX [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SanAntonioTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SanAntonioTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 12,150,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SanAntonioTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SanAntonioTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SanAntonioTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,150,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SanAntonioTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 12,450,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SanAntonioTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,208,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SanAntonioTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Jun. 30, 2009      
Bristol, VA [Member] | Skilled Nursing Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BristolVaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 176,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BristolVaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 2,511,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BristolVaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BristolVaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 176,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BristolVaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,511,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BristolVaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 2,687,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BristolVaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,973,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SkilledNursingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BristolVaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 17, 1991      
Rainbow City, AL [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_RainbowCityALMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 670,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_RainbowCityALMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 11,330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_RainbowCityALMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_RainbowCityALMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 670,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_RainbowCityALMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 11,330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_RainbowCityALMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 12,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_RainbowCityALMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 410,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_RainbowCityALMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 31, 2013      
Gilbert, AZ [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GilbertAzMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 451,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GilbertAzMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 3,142,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GilbertAzMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 79,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GilbertAzMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 451,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GilbertAzMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,221,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GilbertAzMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 3,672,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GilbertAzMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,274,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GilbertAzMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 31, 1998      
Glendale, AZ [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GlendaleAzMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 387,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GlendaleAzMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 3,823,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GlendaleAzMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 57,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GlendaleAzMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 387,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GlendaleAzMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,880,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GlendaleAzMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 4,267,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GlendaleAzMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,544,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GlendaleAzMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 31, 1998      
Tucson, AZ [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_TucsonAzMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 919,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_TucsonAzMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 6,656,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_TucsonAzMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 190,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_TucsonAzMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 919,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_TucsonAzMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,846,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_TucsonAzMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 7,765,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_TucsonAzMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,697,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_TucsonAzMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 31, 1998      
Sacramento, CA [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SacramentoCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 660,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SacramentoCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 10,840,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SacramentoCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SacramentoCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 660,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SacramentoCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,840,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SacramentoCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 11,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SacramentoCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 179,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SacramentoCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Jun. 01, 2014      
Bartow, FL [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BartowFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 225,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BartowFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 3,192,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BartowFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BartowFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 225,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BartowFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,192,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BartowFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 3,417,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BartowFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 396,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BartowFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Nov. 30, 2010      
Lakeland, FL [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LakelandFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LakelandFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 3,167,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LakelandFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LakelandFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LakelandFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,167,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LakelandFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 3,417,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LakelandFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 395,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LakelandFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Nov. 30, 2010      
Maitland, FL [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MaitlandFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,687,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MaitlandFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 5,428,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MaitlandFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MaitlandFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 1,687,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MaitlandFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,428,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MaitlandFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 7,115,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MaitlandFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,808,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MaitlandFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Aug. 06, 1996      
Maitland, FL [Member] | Senior Living Campus [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MaitlandFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 2,317,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MaitlandFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 9,161,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MaitlandFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MaitlandFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 2,317,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MaitlandFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 9,161,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MaitlandFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 11,478,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MaitlandFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 5,422,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MaitlandFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Aug. 06, 1996      
St. Cloud, FL [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_StCloudFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 307,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_StCloudFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 3,117,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_StCloudFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_StCloudFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 307,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_StCloudFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,117,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_StCloudFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 3,424,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_StCloudFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 388,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_StCloudFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Nov. 30, 2010      
Greensboro, GA [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreensboroGaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 572,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreensboroGaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 4,849,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreensboroGaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 12,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreensboroGaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 572,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreensboroGaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,861,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreensboroGaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 5,433,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreensboroGaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 446,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreensboroGaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Sep. 15, 2011      
Ames, IA [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AmesIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 360,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AmesIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 4,670,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AmesIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AmesIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 360,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AmesIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,670,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AmesIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 5,030,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AmesIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AmesIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Jun. 28, 2013      
Burlington, IA [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BurlingtonIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BurlingtonIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 8,374,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BurlingtonIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BurlingtonIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BurlingtonIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,374,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BurlingtonIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 8,574,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BurlingtonIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 360,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BurlingtonIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Jun. 28, 2013      
Cedar Falls, IA [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 4,072,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CedarFallsIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 260,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CedarFallsIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 4,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CedarFallsIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CedarFallsIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 260,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CedarFallsIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CedarFallsIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 4,960,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CedarFallsIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 206,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CedarFallsIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Jun. 28, 2013      
Clinton, IA [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 2,818,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ClintonIaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 133,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ClintonIaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 3,215,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ClintonIaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ClintonIaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 133,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ClintonIaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,215,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ClintonIaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 3,348,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ClintonIaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 391,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ClintonIaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Jun. 30, 2010      
Ft. Dodge, IA [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_Ft.DodgeIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_Ft.DodgeIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 7,208,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_Ft.DodgeIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_Ft.DodgeIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_Ft.DodgeIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,208,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_Ft.DodgeIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 7,308,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_Ft.DodgeIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 302,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_Ft.DodgeIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Jun. 28, 2013      
Iowa City, IA [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 2,559,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_IowaCityIaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 297,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_IowaCityIaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 2,725,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_IowaCityIaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_IowaCityIaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 297,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_IowaCityIaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,725,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_IowaCityIaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 3,022,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_IowaCityIaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 381,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_IowaCityIaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Jun. 30, 2010      
Marshalltown, IA [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MarshalltownIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 240,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MarshalltownIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 6,208,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MarshalltownIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MarshalltownIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 240,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MarshalltownIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,208,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MarshalltownIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 6,448,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MarshalltownIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 265,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MarshalltownIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Jun. 28, 2013      
Muscatine, IA [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MuscatineIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 140,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MuscatineIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 1,802,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MuscatineIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MuscatineIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 140,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MuscatineIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 1,802,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MuscatineIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 1,942,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MuscatineIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 87,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MuscatineIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Jun. 28, 2013      
Urbandale, IA [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_UrbandaleIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_UrbandaleIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 4,292,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_UrbandaleIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_UrbandaleIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_UrbandaleIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,292,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_UrbandaleIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 4,832,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_UrbandaleIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 194,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_UrbandaleIAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Jun. 28, 2013      
Caldwell, ID [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CaldwellIDMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 320,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CaldwellIDMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 10,080,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CaldwellIDMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CaldwellIDMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 320,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CaldwellIDMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,080,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CaldwellIDMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 10,400,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CaldwellIDMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 210,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CaldwellIDMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Mar. 31, 2014      
Weiser, ID [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WeiserIdMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 20,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WeiserIdMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 2,433,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WeiserIdMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WeiserIdMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 20,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WeiserIdMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,433,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WeiserIdMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 2,453,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WeiserIdMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 128,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WeiserIdMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 21, 2012      
Bourbonnais, IL [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BourbonnaisILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 170,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BourbonnaisILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 16,594,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BourbonnaisILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BourbonnaisILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 170,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BourbonnaisILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 16,594,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BourbonnaisILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 16,764,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BourbonnaisILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 694,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BourbonnaisILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Jun. 28, 2013      
Moline, IL [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MolineILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MolineILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 5,630,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MolineILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MolineILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MolineILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,630,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MolineILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 5,880,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MolineILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 244,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MolineILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Jun. 28, 2013      
Peoria, IL [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 4,260,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PeoriaIlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 403,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PeoriaIlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 4,532,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PeoriaIlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 96,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PeoriaIlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 403,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PeoriaIlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,628,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PeoriaIlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 5,031,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PeoriaIlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 625,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PeoriaIlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 19, 2009      
Quincy, IL [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_QuincyILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 360,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_QuincyILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 12,403,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_QuincyILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_QuincyILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 360,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_QuincyILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,403,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_QuincyILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 12,763,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_QuincyILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 517,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_QuincyILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Jun. 28, 2013      
Rockford, IL [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_RockfordILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 390,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_RockfordILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 12,576,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_RockfordILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_RockfordILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 390,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_RockfordILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,576,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_RockfordILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 12,966,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_RockfordILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 541,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_RockfordILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Jun. 28, 2013      
Springfield, IL [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SpringfieldILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SpringfieldILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 19,355,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SpringfieldILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SpringfieldILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SpringfieldILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 19,355,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SpringfieldILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 19,805,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SpringfieldILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 808,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SpringfieldILMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Jun. 28, 2013      
Carmel, IN [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CarmelInMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 475,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CarmelInMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 7,336,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CarmelInMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CarmelInMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 475,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CarmelInMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,336,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CarmelInMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 7,811,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CarmelInMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CarmelInMember
     
Real Estate And Accumulated Depreciation Date Acquired String 11/12/2014      
Crawfordsville, IN [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CrawfordsvilleINMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CrawfordsvilleINMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 3,134,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CrawfordsvilleINMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CrawfordsvilleINMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CrawfordsvilleINMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,134,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CrawfordsvilleINMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 3,434,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CrawfordsvilleINMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 138,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CrawfordsvilleINMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Jun. 28, 2013      
Crown Point, IN [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CrownPointInMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 791,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CrownPointInMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 7,020,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CrownPointInMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 227,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CrownPointInMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 791,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CrownPointInMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,247,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CrownPointInMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 8,038,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CrownPointInMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 277,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CrownPointInMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 30, 2013      
Greenwood, IN [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenwoodInMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 463,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenwoodInMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 6,810,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenwoodInMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 245,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenwoodInMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 463,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenwoodInMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,055,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenwoodInMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 7,518,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenwoodInMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 270,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GreenwoodInMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Nov. 07, 2013      
Lafayette, IN [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LafayetteInMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 546,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LafayetteInMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 4,583,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LafayetteInMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LafayetteInMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 546,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LafayetteInMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,583,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LafayetteInMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 5,129,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LafayetteInMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 552,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LafayetteInMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Jun. 30, 2010      
Wabash, IN [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WabashINMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 320,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WabashINMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 2,241,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WabashINMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WabashINMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 320,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WabashINMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,241,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WabashINMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 2,561,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WabashINMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 111,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WabashINMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Jun. 28, 2013      
Overland Park, KS [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_OverlandParkKsMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 2,199,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_OverlandParkKsMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 20,026,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_OverlandParkKsMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_OverlandParkKsMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 2,199,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_OverlandParkKsMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 20,026,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_OverlandParkKsMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 22,225,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_OverlandParkKsMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,585,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_OverlandParkKsMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Sep. 30, 2012      
Mission, KS [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MissionKsMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,901,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MissionKsMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 17,310,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MissionKsMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MissionKsMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 1,901,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MissionKsMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 17,310,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MissionKsMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 19,211,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MissionKsMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,370,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MissionKsMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Sep. 30, 2012      
Bastrop, LA [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BastropLaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 325,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BastropLaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 2,456,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BastropLaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BastropLaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 325,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BastropLaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,456,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BastropLaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 2,781,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BastropLaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BastropLaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Apr. 30, 2011      
Bossier City, LA [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BossierCityLaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BossierCityLaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 3,344,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BossierCityLaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BossierCityLaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BossierCityLaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,344,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BossierCityLaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 3,844,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BossierCityLaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 415,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BossierCityLaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Apr. 30, 2011      
Minden, LA [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MindenLaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 280,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MindenLaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 1,698,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MindenLaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MindenLaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 280,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MindenLaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 1,698,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MindenLaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 1,978,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MindenLaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 199,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MindenLaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Apr. 30, 2011      
West Monroe, LA [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WestMonroeLaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 770,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WestMonroeLaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 5,627,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WestMonroeLaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WestMonroeLaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 770,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WestMonroeLaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,627,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WestMonroeLaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 6,397,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WestMonroeLaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 624,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WestMonroeLaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Apr. 30, 2011      
Baltimore, MD [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BaltimoreMDMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 860,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BaltimoreMDMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 8,078,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BaltimoreMDMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 353,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BaltimoreMDMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 860,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BaltimoreMDMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,431,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BaltimoreMDMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 9,291,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BaltimoreMDMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 257,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BaltimoreMDMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 31, 2013      
Battle Creek, MI [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 3,112,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BattleCreekMiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 398,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BattleCreekMiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 3,093,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BattleCreekMiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BattleCreekMiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 398,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BattleCreekMiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,093,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BattleCreekMiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 3,491,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BattleCreekMiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 443,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BattleCreekMiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 19, 2009      
Lansing, MI [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 6,749,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LansingMiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 340,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LansingMiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 7,908,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LansingMiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LansingMiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 340,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LansingMiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,908,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LansingMiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 8,248,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LansingMiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,118,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LansingMiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 19, 2009      
Midland, MI [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 5,880,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MidlandMiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 504,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MidlandMiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 6,612,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MidlandMiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MidlandMiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 504,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MidlandMiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,612,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MidlandMiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 7,116,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MidlandMiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 894,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MidlandMiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 19, 2009      
Saginaw, MI [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 3,871,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SaginawMiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 248,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SaginawMiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 4,212,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SaginawMiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SaginawMiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 248,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SaginawMiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,212,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SaginawMiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 4,460,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SaginawMiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 590,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SaginawMiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 19, 2009      
Champlin, MN [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ChamplinMnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 980,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ChamplinMnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 4,430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ChamplinMnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ChamplinMnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 980,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ChamplinMnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ChamplinMnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 5,410,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ChamplinMnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 642,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ChamplinMnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Mar. 10, 2010      
Hugo, MN [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HugoMnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HugoMnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 3,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HugoMnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HugoMnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HugoMnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HugoMnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 4,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HugoMnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 535,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HugoMnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Mar. 10, 2010      
Maplewood, MN [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MaplewoodMnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MaplewoodMnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 6,510,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MaplewoodMnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MaplewoodMnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 1,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MaplewoodMnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,510,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MaplewoodMnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 8,210,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MaplewoodMnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 936,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MaplewoodMnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Mar. 10, 2010      
North Branch, MN [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_NorthBranchMnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 595,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_NorthBranchMnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 2,985,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_NorthBranchMnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_NorthBranchMnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 595,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_NorthBranchMnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,985,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_NorthBranchMnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 3,580,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_NorthBranchMnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 467,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_NorthBranchMnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Mar. 10, 2010      
Grand Island, NE [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 4,528,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GrandIslandNEMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 370,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GrandIslandNEMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 5,029,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GrandIslandNEMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 90,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GrandIslandNEMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 370,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GrandIslandNEMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,119,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GrandIslandNEMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 5,489,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GrandIslandNEMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 214,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GrandIslandNEMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Jun. 28, 2013      
Lincoln, NE [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LincolnNEMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 380,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LincolnNEMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 10,904,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LincolnNEMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LincolnNEMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 380,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LincolnNEMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,904,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LincolnNEMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 11,284,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LincolnNEMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 451,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LincolnNEMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Jun. 28, 2013      
Omaha, NE [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_OmahaNEMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 480,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_OmahaNEMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 7,039,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_OmahaNEMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_OmahaNEMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 480,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_OmahaNEMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,039,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_OmahaNEMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 7,519,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_OmahaNEMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 295,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_OmahaNEMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Jun. 28, 2013      
Marysville, OH [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MarysvilleOHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MarysvilleOHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 13,950,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MarysvilleOHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MarysvilleOHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 1,250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MarysvilleOHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 13,950,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MarysvilleOHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 15,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MarysvilleOHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 636,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MarysvilleOHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Jul. 01, 2013      
Middletown, OH [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 9,503,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MiddletownOHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 940,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MiddletownOHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 15,548,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MiddletownOHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MiddletownOHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 940,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MiddletownOHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,548,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MiddletownOHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 16,488,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MiddletownOHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 75,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MiddletownOHMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 31, 2014      
Milwaukie, OR [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MilwaukieORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 370,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MilwaukieORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 5,283,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MilwaukieORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MilwaukieORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 370,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MilwaukieORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 5,283,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MilwaukieORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 5,653,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MilwaukieORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 35,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MilwaukieORMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Sep. 30, 2014      
Ontario, OR [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_OntarioOrMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 428,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_OntarioOrMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 6,128,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_OntarioOrMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_OntarioOrMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 428,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_OntarioOrMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,128,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_OntarioOrMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 6,556,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_OntarioOrMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 323,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_OntarioOrMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 21, 2012      
Conway, SC [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ConwayScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 344,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ConwayScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 2,877,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ConwayScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 94,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ConwayScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 344,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ConwayScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,971,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ConwayScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 3,315,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ConwayScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,174,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ConwayScMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 31, 1998      
Gallatin, TN [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GallatinTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 326,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GallatinTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 2,277,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GallatinTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 61,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GallatinTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 326,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GallatinTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,338,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GallatinTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 2,664,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GallatinTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 925,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_GallatinTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Mar. 31, 1999      
Kingsport, TN [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_KingsportTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 354,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_KingsportTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 2,568,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_KingsportTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 66,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_KingsportTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 354,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_KingsportTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,634,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_KingsportTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 2,988,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_KingsportTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,042,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_KingsportTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 31, 1998      
Tullahoma, TN [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_TullahomaTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 191,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_TullahomaTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 2,216,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_TullahomaTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 57,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_TullahomaTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 191,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_TullahomaTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 2,273,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_TullahomaTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 2,464,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_TullahomaTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 883,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_TullahomaTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Mar. 31, 1999      
Beaver Dam, WI [Member] | Assisted Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BeaverDamWiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 210,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BeaverDamWiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 20,149,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BeaverDamWiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BeaverDamWiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 210,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BeaverDamWiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 20,149,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BeaverDamWiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 20,359,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BeaverDamWiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,162,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_AssistedLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BeaverDamWiMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 21, 2012      
Rogers, AR [Member] | Independent Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_RogersARMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,470,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_RogersARMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 25,283,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_RogersARMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_RogersARMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 1,470,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_RogersARMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 25,283,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_RogersARMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 26,753,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_RogersARMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 694,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_RogersARMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 23, 2013      
Fort Smith, AR [Member] | Independent Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FortSmithARMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 590,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FortSmithARMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 22,447,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FortSmithARMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FortSmithARMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 590,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FortSmithARMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 22,447,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FortSmithARMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 23,037,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FortSmithARMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 611,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FortSmithARMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 23, 2013      
Pinole, CA [Member] | Independent Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PinoleCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,020,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PinoleCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 18,066,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PinoleCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PinoleCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 1,020,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PinoleCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,066,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PinoleCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 19,086,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PinoleCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 492,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PinoleCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 23, 2013      
West Covina, CA [Member] | Independent Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WestCovinaCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 940,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WestCovinaCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 20,280,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WestCovinaCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WestCovinaCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 940,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WestCovinaCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 20,280,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WestCovinaCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 21,220,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WestCovinaCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 545,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WestCovinaCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 23, 2013      
Hemet, CA [Member] | Independent Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HemetCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HemetCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 12,645,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HemetCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HemetCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 1,250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HemetCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,645,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HemetCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 13,895,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HemetCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 359,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_HemetCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 23, 2013      
Fresno, CA [Member] | Independent Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FresnoCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 420,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FresnoCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 10,899,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FresnoCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FresnoCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 420,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FresnoCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 10,899,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FresnoCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 11,319,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FresnoCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 315,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FresnoCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 23, 2013      
Merced, CA [Member] | Independent Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MercedCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MercedCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 18,712,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MercedCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MercedCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MercedCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,712,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MercedCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 19,062,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MercedCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 511,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MercedCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 23, 2013      
Roseville, CA [Member] | Independent Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_RosevilleCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 630,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_RosevilleCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 31,343,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_RosevilleCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_RosevilleCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 630,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_RosevilleCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 31,343,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_RosevilleCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 31,973,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_RosevilleCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 842,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_RosevilleCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 23, 2013      
Modesto, CA [Member] | Independent Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ModestoCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,170,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ModestoCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 22,673,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ModestoCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ModestoCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 1,170,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ModestoCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 22,673,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ModestoCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 23,843,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ModestoCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 607,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ModestoCAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 23, 2013      
Athens, GA [Member] | Independent Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AthensGAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 910,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AthensGAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 31,940,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AthensGAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AthensGAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 910,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AthensGAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 31,940,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AthensGAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 32,850,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AthensGAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 861,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_AthensGAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 23, 2013      
Columbus, GA [Member] | Independent Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ColumbusGAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 570,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ColumbusGAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 8,639,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ColumbusGAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ColumbusGAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 570,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ColumbusGAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,639,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ColumbusGAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 9,209,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ColumbusGAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 254,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_ColumbusGAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 23, 2013      
Savannah, GA [Member] | Independent Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SavannahGAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SavannahGAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 15,851,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SavannahGAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SavannahGAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 1,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SavannahGAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,851,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SavannahGAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 17,051,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SavannahGAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 441,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SavannahGAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 23, 2013      
Boise, ID [Member] | Independent Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BoiseIDMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BoiseIDMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 12,422,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BoiseIDMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BoiseIDMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 400,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BoiseIDMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,422,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BoiseIDMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 12,822,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BoiseIDMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 346,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BoiseIDMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 23, 2013      
Fort Wayne, IN [Member] | Independent Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FortWayneINMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 310,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FortWayneINMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 12,864,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FortWayneINMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FortWayneINMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 310,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FortWayneINMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 12,864,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FortWayneINMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 13,174,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FortWayneINMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 370,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FortWayneINMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 23, 2013      
Kenner, LA [Member] | Independent Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_KennerLAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 310,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_KennerLAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 24,259,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_KennerLAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_KennerLAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 310,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_KennerLAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 24,259,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_KennerLAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 24,569,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_KennerLAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 656,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_KennerLAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 23, 2013      
Bellevue, WA [Member] | Independent Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BellevueWAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 780,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BellevueWAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 18,692,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BellevueWAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BellevueWAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 780,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BellevueWAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 18,692,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BellevueWAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 19,472,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BellevueWAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 504,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_BellevueWAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 23, 2013      
Vancouver, WA [Member] | Independent Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_VancouverWAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,740,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_VancouverWAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 23,411,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_VancouverWAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_VancouverWAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 1,740,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_VancouverWAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 23,411,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_VancouverWAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 25,151,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_VancouverWAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 653,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_VancouverWAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 23, 2013      
Yakima, WA [Member] | Independent Living Facility [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_YakimaWAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 440,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_YakimaWAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 14,185,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_YakimaWAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_YakimaWAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 440,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_YakimaWAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 14,185,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_YakimaWAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 14,625,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_YakimaWAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 388,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_IndependentLivingFacilityMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_YakimaWAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 23, 2013      
Loma Linda, CA [Member] | Senior Living Campus [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LomaLindaCaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LomaLindaCaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 10,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LomaLindaCaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 4,232,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LomaLindaCaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 1,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LomaLindaCaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 15,032,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LomaLindaCaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 16,232,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LomaLindaCaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 687,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LomaLindaCaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Sep. 28, 2012      
Nampa, ID [Member] | Senior Living Campus [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_NampaIdMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 243,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_NampaIdMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 4,182,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_NampaIdMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_NampaIdMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 243,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_NampaIdMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,182,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_NampaIdMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 4,425,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_NampaIdMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,042,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_NampaIdMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Aug. 13, 1996      
Mt. Airy, NC [Member] | Senior Living Campus [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_Mt.AiryNCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,370,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_Mt.AiryNCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 7,470,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_Mt.AiryNCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_Mt.AiryNCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 1,370,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_Mt.AiryNCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 7,470,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_Mt.AiryNCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 8,840,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_Mt.AiryNCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_Mt.AiryNCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 17, 2014      
West Palm Beach, FL [Member] | Senior Living Campus [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WestPalmBeachFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 2,771,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WestPalmBeachFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 4,286,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WestPalmBeachFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WestPalmBeachFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 2,771,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WestPalmBeachFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 4,286,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WestPalmBeachFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 7,057,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WestPalmBeachFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,633,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WestPalmBeachFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Aug. 06, 1996      
Silverdale, WA [Member] | Senior Living Campus [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SilverdaleWaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,750,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SilverdaleWaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 23,860,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SilverdaleWaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 2,166,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SilverdaleWaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 1,750,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SilverdaleWaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 26,026,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SilverdaleWaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 27,776,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SilverdaleWaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,658,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_SeniorLivingCampusMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SilverdaleWaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Aug. 16, 2012      
Fernandina Beach, FL [Member] | Entrance-Fee Communities [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FernandinaBeachFLMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FernandinaBeachFLMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 63,420,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FernandinaBeachFLMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FernandinaBeachFLMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 1,430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FernandinaBeachFLMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 63,420,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FernandinaBeachFLMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 64,850,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FernandinaBeachFLMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_FernandinaBeachFLMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 17, 2014      
St. Simons Island, GA [Member] | Entrance-Fee Communities [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_St.SimonsIslandGAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 8,770,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_St.SimonsIslandGAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 38,070,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_St.SimonsIslandGAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_St.SimonsIslandGAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 8,770,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_St.SimonsIslandGAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 38,070,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_St.SimonsIslandGAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 46,840,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_St.SimonsIslandGAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_St.SimonsIslandGAMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 17, 2014      
Winston-Salem, NC [Member] | Entrance-Fee Communities [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WinstonSalemNCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 8,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WinstonSalemNCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 73,920,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WinstonSalemNCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WinstonSalemNCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 8,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WinstonSalemNCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 73,920,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WinstonSalemNCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 82,620,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WinstonSalemNCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_WinstonSalemNCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 17, 2014      
Pawleys Island, SC [Member] | Entrance-Fee Communities [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PawleysIslandSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,480,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PawleysIslandSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 38,620,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PawleysIslandSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PawleysIslandSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 1,480,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PawleysIslandSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 38,620,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PawleysIslandSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 40,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PawleysIslandSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PawleysIslandSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 17, 2014      
Spartanburg, SC [Member] | Entrance-Fee Communities [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SpartanburgSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SpartanburgSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 49,190,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SpartanburgSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SpartanburgSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SpartanburgSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 49,190,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SpartanburgSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 50,090,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SpartanburgSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_EntranceFeeCommunitiesMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_SpartanburgSCMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Dec. 17, 2014      
Crestview, FL [Member] | Medical Office Building [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_MedicalOfficeBuildingMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CrestviewFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 165,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_MedicalOfficeBuildingMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CrestviewFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 3,349,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_MedicalOfficeBuildingMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CrestviewFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_MedicalOfficeBuildingMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CrestviewFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 165,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_MedicalOfficeBuildingMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CrestviewFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 3,349,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_MedicalOfficeBuildingMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CrestviewFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 3,514,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_MedicalOfficeBuildingMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CrestviewFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,193,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_MedicalOfficeBuildingMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_CrestviewFlMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Jun. 30, 1993      
Pasadena, TX [Member] | Medical Office Building [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_MedicalOfficeBuildingMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PasadenaTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 631,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_MedicalOfficeBuildingMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PasadenaTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 6,341,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_MedicalOfficeBuildingMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PasadenaTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_MedicalOfficeBuildingMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PasadenaTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 631,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_MedicalOfficeBuildingMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PasadenaTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 6,341,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_MedicalOfficeBuildingMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PasadenaTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 6,972,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_MedicalOfficeBuildingMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PasadenaTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 4,312,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_MedicalOfficeBuildingMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_PasadenaTxMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Jan. 01, 1995      
La Mesa, CA [Member] | Hospital [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_HospitalMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LaMesaCaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 4,180,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_HospitalMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LaMesaCaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 8,320,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_HospitalMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LaMesaCaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_HospitalMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LaMesaCaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 4,180,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_HospitalMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LaMesaCaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 8,320,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_HospitalMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LaMesaCaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 12,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_HospitalMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LaMesaCaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,482,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_HospitalMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_LaMesaCaMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Mar. 10, 2010      
Jackson, KY [Member] | Hospital [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_HospitalMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_JacksonKyMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_HospitalMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_JacksonKyMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 10,163,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_HospitalMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_JacksonKyMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 7,583,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_HospitalMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_JacksonKyMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_HospitalMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_JacksonKyMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 17,746,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_HospitalMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_JacksonKyMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 18,286,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_HospitalMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_JacksonKyMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 6,079,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_HospitalMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_JacksonKyMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Jun. 12, 1992      
Murfreesboro, TN [Member] | Hospital [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_HospitalMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MurfreesboroTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 2,444,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_HospitalMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MurfreesboroTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 17,585,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_HospitalMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MurfreesboroTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_HospitalMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MurfreesboroTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Land 2,444,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_HospitalMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MurfreesboroTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Carrying Amount of Buildings and Improvements 17,585,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_HospitalMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MurfreesboroTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross 20,029,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_HospitalMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MurfreesboroTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 988,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateDescriptionTypeOfPropertyAxis
= nhi_HospitalMember
/ us-gaap_StatementGeographicalAxis
= nhi_MurfreesboroTnMember
     
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Date Acquired Oct. 01, 2012      
Subsequent Property Additions Purchased From NHC [Member]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]        
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements $ 33,909,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_MajorPropertyClassAxis
= nhi_SubsequentPropertyAdditionsPurchasedFromNhcMember