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The legendary performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of growing older on her eyesight and recall, revealing she frequently finds it hard to remember immediate plans – 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 told the Radio Times.

Her team confirmed that such reminders are sometimes required. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

"It's a crusher," she remarked, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can still hear the questions."

The actress, celebrating 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 another programme airing over the Christmas holidays.

On Friends and Exoneration

Dench also mentioned staying in contact with 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 needs constant help in public to avoid tripping due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.

Coping with New Realities

She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "I can't see on a film set any more," she said in 2023, 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. Since I have many companions who will teach me the script."

Dench's most recent film appearance was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. The same year also brought her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

She continues to appear often at events, however, including at charity events including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live for charity. Dench said she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if they let me."