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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 recall upcoming appointments – yet can effortlessly recite long sections 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 assistants verified that such reminders are sometimes 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 devastating," Dench noted, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can still hear the questions."

Dench, who turns 91 this week, is fronting a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the festive period.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

The star also discussed staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."

In recent months, Dench said she now requires constant help in public for fear of falling over due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a progressive issue that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK.

Coping with New Realities

She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she explained, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it."

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

Her last film appearance was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. That year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.

A Continued Public Presence

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