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The legendary actress Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of aging on her eyesight and recall, stating she frequently finds it hard 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 told a magazine.

Her team confirmed that such reminders are at times required. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

"It's devastating," Dench noted, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "however I can at least hear the questions."

Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the Christmas holidays.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text."

In recent months, 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 issue 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 film work. "I can no longer see properly on set," she explained, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just cope."

"It's difficult if I have a substantial role. I haven't yet found 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 larger role in Allelujah. That year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

Dench still appears frequently in public, nevertheless, including at fundraisers including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live to raise funds. Dench said she could not see the final artwork, but would touch it "if they let me."