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The legendary actress Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of growing older on her eyesight and recall, stating she often struggles to remember immediate plans – but can easily recall long sections of the Bard's work.

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

Her assistants verified that this kind of help are at times necessary. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close.

A 'Crusher' of a Condition

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

Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme set for broadcast over the Christmas holidays.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

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

Earlier this year, Dench said she needs constant help in public for fear of tripping due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive issue that is the primary reason of sight loss in the UK.

Adapting to Change

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

"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 film appearance was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also brought her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

She continues to appear often at events, however, such as at fundraisers including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. Dench said she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if they let me."