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The legendary performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of aging on her vision and recall, stating she often struggles to remember immediate plans – but can effortlessly recite long sections of the Bard's work.

"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told the Radio Times.

Her assistants verified that such reminders are at times necessary. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "blurred" even up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

"It's devastating," she remarked, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can at least hear the questions."

Dench, who turns 91 this week, is leading a new documentary about her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the Christmas holidays.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

The star also discussed staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text."

In recent months, Dench disclosed she now requires constant help in public to avoid tripping due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the primary reason of vision loss in the UK.

Coping with New Realities

Dench has attributed the condition with her de facto retirement from film work. "I can't see on a film set any more," she explained, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it."

"It's difficult if I have a substantial role. I haven't yet found a way. Since I have many companions who will teach me the script."

Her last screen credit was a small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.

A Continued Public Presence

She continues to appear often at events, nevertheless, such as at charity events like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. She noted she could not see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if they let me."