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The legendary performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of growing older on her vision and recall, stating she often struggles to remember upcoming appointments – but can easily recall extensive passages of the Bard's work.

"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to the Radio Times.

Her team confirmed that this kind of help are sometimes required. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "blurred" even up close.

A 'Crusher' of a Condition

"It's devastating," Dench noted, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "however I can still hear the questions."

The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is fronting a new documentary about 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 remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."

In recent months, Dench disclosed she now requires full-time assistance in public for fear of falling over due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the primary reason of sight loss in the UK.

Coping with New Realities

Dench has attributed the condition with her de facto retirement from film work. "I can no longer see properly on set," she said in 2023, adding: "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. Because I have so many friends who will help me learn the script."

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

Remaining in the Public Eye

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