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The legendary actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of growing older on her eyesight and recall, stating she often struggles to recall immediate plans – but can effortlessly recite long sections of Shakespearean text.

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

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

A Condition That 'Crushes'

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

Dench, who turns 91 this week, is fronting a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the festive period.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

The star also discussed remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."

Earlier this year, Dench said she needs full-time assistance in public for fear of 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 sight loss in the UK.

Adapting to Change

Dench has attributed the condition with her effective stepping back from film work. "I can no longer see properly on set," she said in 2023, and continued: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."

"It's challenging if I have a substantial role. I have not discovered a way. Because I have so many friends who will teach me the script."

Dench's most recent screen credit was a small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. The same year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.

A Continued Public Presence

Dench still appears frequently in public, however, including at fundraisers 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 touch it "if permitted."