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The iconic actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of growing older on her vision and memory, stating she frequently finds it hard to recall immediate plans – but can easily recall long sections of Shakespearean text.

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

Her assistants confirmed that this kind of help are sometimes required. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even up close.

A 'Crusher' of a Condition

"It's a crusher," she remarked, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "but I can at least hear the questions."

The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. 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 actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."

Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she now requires constant help in public for fear of tripping due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a progressive disease that is the primary reason of vision loss in the UK.

Adapting to Change

Dench has attributed the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "I can't see on a film set any more," she explained, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it."

"It's difficult if I have any length of a part. I have not discovered a way. Because I have so many friends who will help me learn the script."

Dench's most recent film appearance was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also brought her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

Dench still appears often at events, however, such as at charity events like one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. She noted she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would feel it "if they let me."