This is done by figuratively applying physical traits to the description of the spirit. Any meager comfort that Lazarus enjoyed was provided by the foraging street dogs who licked the diseased tumors of his frail body. Finally, both men died and their state of affairs was dramatically altered. The rich man was subjected to agonizing torment while Lazarus was honored and comforted. It is in consideration of the details chronicled in verses 22ff that it becomes very obvious that the dead, both righteous and wicked, are conscious.
Perception involves an awareness of objects, hence, consciousness.
It implies that Lazarus was in a warm and respected fellowship with Abraham. Clearly, this indicates consciousness. Communication - The rich man could both speak and be spoken to. Communication is possible only with conscious beings. The suffering rebel had not been annihilated.