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The iconic actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of growing older on her vision and recall, revealing she often struggles to recall immediate plans – yet can effortlessly recite long sections of the Bard's work.

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

Her team confirmed that this kind of help are at times required. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "blurred" even up close.

A 'Crusher' of a Condition

"It's a crusher," Dench noted, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "but I can still hear the questions."

The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is fronting a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the festive period.

On Friends and Exoneration

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

Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she now requires constant help in public to avoid tripping 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 said in 2023, and continued: "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 many companions who will teach me the script."

Dench's most recent film appearance was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.

A Continued Public Presence

She continues to appear frequently in public, nevertheless, such as at fundraisers including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live to raise funds. Dench said she could not see the final artwork, but would feel it "if permitted."