Seems unusual...

Oh yes. My Dad (91)has been fully aware that he has Alz or as he also refers to it "my brain is dying." We always encourage and praise him about how well he is doing and that he has so many fine qualities of life. We also acknowledge that there is this dementia issue and that he handles it very well.We tell him we admire his courage. If he is spiritual and faith is important( as is my Dad) we always tell him that God has a plan for him and he is doing a great job. We just keep making sure that Dad knows he is not alone and that he is safe and secure. Quick compliments and move on.