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The legendary performer Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of growing older on her vision and memory, stating she often struggles to remember immediate plans – yet can effortlessly recite extensive passages of the Bard's work.

"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told a magazine.

Her team verified that this kind of help are sometimes required. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

"It's devastating," Dench noted, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can at least hear the questions."

The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary about her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the Christmas holidays.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

Dench also mentioned staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."

Earlier this year, Dench said she now requires full-time assistance in public to avoid tripping due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.

Adapting to Change

Dench has attributed the condition with her de facto retirement from acting. "I can't see on a film set any more," she explained, and continued: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."

"It's challenging if I have any length of a part. I haven't yet found a way. Because I have so many friends who will help me learn the script."

Dench's most recent film appearance was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

She continues to appear often at events, nevertheless, such as at fundraisers including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live to raise funds. She noted she could not see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if permitted."