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The iconic performer Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of growing older on her vision and recall, revealing she often struggles to recall upcoming appointments – but can easily recall extensive passages of the Bard's work.

"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to a magazine.

Her team verified that such reminders are sometimes required. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "blurred" even up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

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

The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is fronting 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 remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."

In recent months, Dench said she now requires full-time assistance in public for fear of falling over due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the primary reason of vision loss in the UK.

Adapting to Change

Dench has attributed the condition with her de facto retirement from acting. "I can't see on a film set any more," she said in 2023, and continued: "Reading is also impossible. But you just deal with it."

"It's difficult if I have a substantial role. I have not discovered a way. Because I have so many friends who will teach me the script."

Her last 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 Oscar nomination for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

Dench still appears often at events, nevertheless, such as at charity events like one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. She noted she could not see the final artwork, but would feel it "if permitted."