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The legendary performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of growing older on her eyesight and memory, stating she often struggles to recall upcoming appointments – but can effortlessly recite extensive passages of the Bard's work.

"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to a magazine.

Her assistants verified that such reminders are at times required. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.

A 'Crusher' of a Condition

"It's a crusher," she remarked, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can at least hear the questions."

Dench, who turns 91 this week, is leading a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship 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 actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."

In recent months, Dench disclosed she now requires constant help in public to avoid falling over due to her vision problems. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the primary reason of sight loss in the UK.

Coping with New Realities

She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from film work. "I can't see on a film set any more," she said in 2023, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."

"It's difficult if I have any length of a part. I have not discovered a way. Because I have many companions who will teach me the script."

Dench's most recent film appearance was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. That year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

She continues to appear frequently in public, however, including at charity events like one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. She noted she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if permitted."