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The legendary performer Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of growing older on her vision and memory, revealing she frequently finds it hard to remember immediate plans – but can effortlessly recite extensive passages of the Bard's work.

"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she told a magazine.

Her team confirmed that this kind of help are at times 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," she remarked, adding 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 leading a new documentary about her deep connection with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the festive period.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

The star also discussed remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text."

In recent months, Dench said she needs constant help in public for fear of tripping due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive disease that is the primary reason of vision loss in the UK.

Adapting to Change

Dench has attributed the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she explained, and continued: "Reading is also impossible. But you just deal with it."

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

Her last film appearance was a small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; earlier that year she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also brought her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

Dench still appears frequently in public, however, such as at fundraisers including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live for charity. Dench said she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if permitted."