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The legendary actress Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of growing older on her vision and memory, revealing she often struggles to recall upcoming appointments – but can effortlessly recite long sections of Shakespearean text.

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

Her assistants verified that this kind of help are sometimes required. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.

A 'Crusher' of a Condition

"It's devastating," Dench noted, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "but I can still hear the questions."

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

On Friends and Exoneration

Dench also mentioned staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text."

Earlier this year, Dench said she needs full-time assistance in public for fear of falling over due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.

Adapting to Change

Dench has attributed the condition with her effective stepping back from film work. "I can't see on a film set any more," she explained, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just deal with it."

"It's challenging if I have a substantial role. I have not discovered a way. Because I have so many friends who will teach me the script."

Dench's most recent screen credit was a small role in the 2022 holiday film 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 frequently in public, however, including at fundraisers like one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live for charity. She noted she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if they let me."