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The iconic actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of aging on her eyesight and memory, stating she often struggles to recall 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 a magazine.

Her team confirmed that this kind of help are sometimes necessary. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close.

A 'Crusher' of a Condition

"It's a crusher," she remarked, explaining that it means she can no longer 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 fronting a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. She will also be seen in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme set for broadcast over the festive period.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

The star also discussed staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text."

Earlier this year, Dench disclosed 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 progressive disease that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK.

Adapting to Change

She has credited the condition with her de facto retirement from acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she said in 2023, and continued: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it."

"It's difficult if I have a substantial role. I have not discovered a way. Since I have many companions who will help me learn the script."

Dench's most recent film appearance was a small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; earlier that year she had a larger role in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.

A Continued Public Presence

She continues to appear often at events, nevertheless, including at fundraisers like one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. Dench said she could not see the final artwork, but would feel it "if they let me."