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The iconic performer Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of aging on her vision and memory, stating she frequently finds it hard to remember immediate plans – but can effortlessly recite extensive passages of Shakespearean text.

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

Her assistants verified that such reminders are at times necessary. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

"It's devastating," she remarked, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can at least hear the questions."

The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary exploring her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her 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 sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."

In recent months, Dench said she now requires constant help in public to avoid falling over due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a progressive disease that is the primary reason of vision loss in the UK.

Coping with New Realities

She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "I can't see on a film set any more," she explained, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."

"It's challenging if I have any length of a part. I haven't yet found a way. Since I have so many friends who will help me learn the script."

Her last film appearance was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That 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 alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. She noted she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if they let me."