What if from his perspective he believes theres nothing he can actually do to solve any of the problems mentioned so the next best thing is to praise positivity in the situations.

How would you like him to approach the problems you've listed? Ask more questions? What if he feels its not his place to comment on your family, he doesn't know much about the health related problems, and bullying his opinion is to walk away from a fight? Be specific with him for all you know hes handling the best he knows how to.