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The iconic performer Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of aging on her eyesight and memory, revealing she often struggles to recall upcoming appointments – but can easily recall extensive passages of Shakespearean text.

"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she told the Radio Times.

Her team verified that this kind of help are at times necessary. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.

A 'Crusher' of a Condition

"It's a crusher," Dench noted, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "but I can still hear the questions."

The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is leading a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the Christmas holidays.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

The star also discussed remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."

Earlier this year, Dench said she now requires constant help in public for fear of tripping due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK.

Coping with New Realities

Dench has attributed the condition with her de facto retirement from acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she explained, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just deal with it."

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

Dench's most recent screen credit was a small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

Dench still appears frequently in public, nevertheless, such as at charity events like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. Dench said she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if they let me."