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The legendary performer Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of aging on her eyesight and recall, stating she frequently finds it hard to recall immediate plans – yet can easily recall extensive passages of Shakespearean text.

"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she told the Radio Times.

Her assistants verified that such reminders are sometimes necessary. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

"It's a crusher," Dench noted, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "but I can still 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 set for broadcast over the festive period.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with fellow 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."

Earlier this year, Dench said 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 issue that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.

Adapting to Change

Dench has attributed 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 challenging if I have any length of a part. I have not discovered a way. Since I have many companions 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 larger role in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

She continues to appear often at events, however, such as at charity events including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live for charity. She noted she could not see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if they let me."