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The iconic performer Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of growing older on her vision and memory, stating she often struggles to recall immediate plans – yet can effortlessly recite extensive passages of the Bard's work.

"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she told a magazine.

Her team verified 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 when up close.

A 'Crusher' of a Condition

"It's devastating," she remarked, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can still hear the questions."

Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is fronting 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 Christmas holidays.

On Friends and Exoneration

Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text."

Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she needs full-time assistance in public to avoid tripping due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive issue that is the primary reason of vision loss in the UK.

Coping with New Realities

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, and continued: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it."

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

Dench's most recent screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie 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, including at fundraisers like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. Dench said she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if permitted."