NEWPORT BEACH, CA (REIT Media) May 16, 2008 - Nationwide Health Properties, Inc. (NYSE: NHP) announced today the promotion of David M. Boitano to Senior Vice President and Senior Investment Officer. "Dave has made a tremendous contribution to NHP over the last several years as evidenced by our strong investment growth and diversification strategy successes. Dave has been responsible for over $1 billion in accretive investments for NHP, leveraging his vast experience and relationships in healthcare real estate and operations," said Don Bradley, NHP's Chief Investment Officer.

Since 2002, Mr. Boitano has been an investment officer for NHP focused primarily on senior housing and long-term care acquisition and development opportunities in the West. Mr. Boitano also led the deal team responsible for our initial portfolio of seven medical office buildings in Southwest Washington acquired in association with Pacific Medical Buildings and will work closely with them on future MOB acquisition and development projects.

Prior to joining NHP, Mr. Boitano was the Senior Vice President of Finance and Acquisitions and Treasurer for a leading senior housing provider. During his 13-year career in senior housing, Mr. Boitano has been involved in financing over $3.0 billion of healthcare real estate as a REIT investor or operator.

Nationwide Health Properties, Inc. is a real estate investment trust that invests in senior housing facilities, long-term care facilities and medical office buildings. The Company has investments in 555 facilities in 43 states. For more information on Nationwide Health Properties, Inc., visit our website at http://www.nhp-reit.com.

CONTACT: Don Bradley

               Chief Investment Officer
               (949) 718-4400