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The legendary actress Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of growing older on her eyesight and recall, stating she often struggles to recall upcoming appointments – yet can effortlessly recite long sections of the Bard's work.

"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told the Radio Times.

Her team confirmed that this kind of help are sometimes necessary. 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 devastating," Dench noted, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can still hear the questions."

Dench, who turns 91 this week, is leading a new documentary about her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the festive period.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text."

Earlier this year, Dench disclosed 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 primary reason of sight loss in the UK.

Coping with New Realities

Dench has attributed the condition with her effective stepping back 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 any length of a part. I have not discovered a way. Since I have many companions who will teach me the script."

Dench's most recent film appearance was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

Dench still appears frequently in public, however, such as at fundraisers including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live to raise funds. Dench said she could not see the final artwork, but would feel it "if they let me."