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The legendary performer Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of growing older on her eyesight and recall, stating she frequently finds it hard to remember upcoming appointments – but can effortlessly recite extensive passages of the Bard's work.

"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to a magazine.

Her assistants confirmed that such reminders are sometimes necessary. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

"It's devastating," Dench noted, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "however I can still hear the questions."

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

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

The star also discussed remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."

In recent months, Dench disclosed she needs full-time assistance in public for fear of tripping due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a progressive disease that is the leading cause of sight 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 said in 2023, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it."

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

Her last screen credit was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.

A Continued Public Presence

She continues to appear often at events, nevertheless, such as at fundraisers including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. She noted she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would touch it "if permitted."