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The legendary performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of aging on her vision and memory, stating she frequently finds it hard to remember upcoming appointments – but 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 such reminders are sometimes required. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

"It's a crusher," Dench noted, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can still hear the questions."

Dench, who turns 91 this week, is leading a new documentary exploring her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme set for broadcast over the festive period.

On Friends and Exoneration

Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."

In recent months, Dench disclosed she now requires constant help in public for fear of falling over due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the leading cause 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 explained, and continued: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."

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

Her last screen credit was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

Dench still appears often at events, nevertheless, including at charity events including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. Dench said she could not see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if they let me."