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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 upcoming appointments – yet can effortlessly recite extensive passages of Shakespearean text.

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

Her assistants verified that this kind of help are at times necessary. She further mentioned 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," she remarked, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "but I can at least hear the questions."

The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is leading a new documentary about her deep connection with Shakespeare's works. She will also be seen in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the festive period.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text."

In recent months, Dench said she needs full-time assistance in public to avoid tripping due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a progressive issue that is the primary reason of sight loss in the UK.

Coping with New Realities

She has credited the condition with her de facto retirement from acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she explained, and continued: "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 so many friends who will help me learn the script."

Her last screen credit was a brief part 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

She continues to appear frequently in public, nevertheless, including at fundraisers including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live for charity. Dench said she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if they let me."