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The iconic performer Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of growing older on her eyesight and recall, stating she frequently finds it hard 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 swear to you," she told a magazine.

Her assistants verified that this kind of help are at times required. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

"It's devastating," she remarked, explaining 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 leading a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme set for broadcast over the festive period.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," she stated, "and we are in contact, 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 age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK.

Adapting to Change

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: "Reading is also impossible. But you just deal with it."

"It's challenging if I have a substantial role. I haven't yet found a way. Because I have many companions who will help me learn the script."

Her last screen credit was a small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

She continues to appear often at events, nevertheless, including at fundraisers including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live for charity. She noted she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would feel it "if they let me."