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The legendary performer Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of growing older on her vision and memory, stating she frequently finds it hard to remember upcoming appointments – yet can easily recall extensive passages of the Bard's work.

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

Her assistants verified that such reminders are sometimes required. 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, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can at least hear the questions."

Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary exploring her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the festive period.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."

In recent months, Dench disclosed she now requires constant help in public for fear of tripping due to her vision problems. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive disease that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK.

Adapting to Change

She has credited the condition with her de facto retirement from acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she said in 2023, and continued: "Reading is also impossible. But you just deal with it."

"It's difficult if I have a substantial role. I haven't yet found a way. Since I have many companions who will help me learn the script."

Dench's most recent film appearance was a small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; earlier that year she had a larger role in Allelujah. That year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.

A Continued Public Presence

Dench still appears frequently in public, however, such as at fundraisers like one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. Dench said she could not see the final artwork, but would feel it "if permitted."