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The iconic actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of aging on her vision and memory, stating she frequently finds it hard to recall immediate plans – but can effortlessly recite long sections of the Bard's work.

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

Her team confirmed that this kind of help are at times required. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.

A 'Crusher' of a Condition

"It's devastating," Dench noted, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can at least hear the questions."

The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is fronting a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. She will also be seen in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme set for broadcast over the festive period.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

Dench also mentioned staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."

Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she now requires full-time assistance in public to avoid falling over due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a progressive disease that is the primary reason of vision 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 said in 2023, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it."

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

Her last screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.

A Continued Public Presence

She continues to appear frequently in public, nevertheless, including at fundraisers including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live to raise funds. She noted she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would feel it "if permitted."