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The iconic actress Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of growing older on her eyesight and memory, revealing she frequently finds it hard to remember immediate plans – yet can effortlessly recite extensive passages of Shakespearean text.

"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to the Radio Times.

Her team verified that this kind of help are at times necessary. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close.

A 'Crusher' of a Condition

"It's a crusher," she remarked, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can still hear the questions."

The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary about her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the festive period.

On Friends and Exoneration

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 I hear from Kevin, we text."

In recent months, Dench disclosed she now requires full-time assistance in public to avoid tripping due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative disease 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 film work. "I can't see on a film set any more," she explained, adding: "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 so many friends who will teach me the script."

Dench's most recent screen credit was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year she had a larger role in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination 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. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. Dench said she could not see the final artwork, but would touch it "if they let me."