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The legendary performer Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of growing older on her eyesight and recall, stating she frequently finds it hard to recall immediate plans – yet can effortlessly recite long sections of Shakespearean text.

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

Her team confirmed that this kind of help are at times necessary. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even when 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 hosting Mastermind," she said, "but I can at least hear the questions."

The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is fronting a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme set for broadcast 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 I hear from Kevin, we text."

In recent months, Dench disclosed she now requires full-time assistance in public to avoid tripping due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a progressive disease that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.

Coping with New Realities

She has credited 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 cope."

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

Dench's most recent 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 earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

Dench still appears frequently in public, nevertheless, such as at fundraisers like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live to raise funds. She noted she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if they let me."