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The iconic actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of aging on her eyesight and memory, revealing 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 team verified that this kind of help are at times necessary. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "blurred" even up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

"It's devastating," she remarked, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "but I can still hear the questions."

The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is fronting a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the festive period.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

The star also discussed remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text."

Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she needs full-time assistance in public to avoid tripping due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the primary reason of vision loss in the UK.

Coping with New Realities

She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from film work. "I can no longer see properly on set," she explained, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."

"It's difficult if I have any length of a part. I haven't yet found a way. Since I have so many friends who will help me learn the script."

Her last film appearance was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. The same year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

Dench still appears often at events, however, such as at charity events like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live to raise funds. Dench said she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if permitted."