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The iconic actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of growing older on her vision and recall, revealing she often struggles to recall immediate plans – yet can easily recall 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 team confirmed that this kind of help are at times required. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.

A 'Crusher' of a Condition

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

The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is fronting a new documentary about her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the Christmas holidays.

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 I hear from Kevin, we text."

Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she needs constant help in public for fear of falling over due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the primary reason of sight loss in the UK.

Adapting to Change

She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she said in 2023, and continued: "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. Since I have so many friends who will help me learn the script."

Dench's most recent film appearance was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. The same year also brought her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

Dench still appears frequently in public, however, including at fundraisers including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live for charity. Dench said she could not see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if permitted."