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The iconic performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of aging on her eyesight and recall, stating she often struggles to remember immediate plans – yet can effortlessly recite extensive passages of the Bard's work.

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

Her team verified that such reminders are at times required. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

"It's a crusher," Dench noted, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "however I can still hear the questions."

Dench, who turns 91 this week, is fronting a new documentary exploring her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme set for broadcast 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 we are in contact, we text."

In recent months, Dench disclosed she needs full-time assistance in public for fear of tripping due to her vision problems. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the primary reason of vision loss in the UK.

Coping with New Realities

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, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just cope."

"It's difficult if I have a substantial role. I have not discovered a way. Because I have many companions who will help me learn the script."

Dench's most recent film appearance 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 Oscar nomination for Belfast.

A Continued Public Presence

Dench still appears frequently in public, nevertheless, such as at charity events including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live for charity. She noted she could not see the final artwork, but would feel it "if permitted."