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The legendary actress Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of aging on her eyesight and recall, revealing she often struggles 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 promise you," she stated to the Radio Times.

Her team verified that such reminders are sometimes required. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

"It's a crusher," she remarked, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "however I can at least hear the questions."

The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the Christmas holidays.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

The star also discussed remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text."

Earlier this year, Dench said she needs constant help in public for fear of falling over due to her vision problems. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive issue 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 explained, and continued: "Reading is also impossible. But you just deal with it."

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

Dench's most recent screen credit was a small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also brought her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

She continues to appear often at events, nevertheless, including at charity events including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live to raise funds. She noted she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if permitted."