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The legendary actress Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of growing older on her eyesight and recall, revealing she often struggles to remember immediate plans – yet can easily recall extensive passages of the Bard's work.

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

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

A Condition That 'Crushes'

"It's devastating," Dench noted, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "but I can still hear the questions."

Dench, who turns 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

The star also discussed staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "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 vision problems. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a progressive issue that is the primary reason of vision loss in the UK.

Adapting to Change

She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "I can't see on a film set any more," she explained, 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. Since I have many companions who will teach me 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 earned 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 including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live to raise funds. She noted she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if permitted."