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The iconic actress Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of aging on her eyesight and recall, revealing she frequently finds it hard to remember upcoming appointments – but can effortlessly recite extensive passages of Shakespearean text.

"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 sometimes required. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

"It's a crusher," Dench noted, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I long to see 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 the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the festive period.

On Friends and Exoneration

The star also discussed 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 full-time assistance in public to avoid falling over due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a progressive disease that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.

Coping with New Realities

Dench has attributed the condition with her de facto retirement from acting. "I can't see on a film set any more," she said in 2023, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."

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

Dench's most recent film appearance was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. That year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.

A Continued Public Presence

She continues to appear often at events, nevertheless, such as at charity events like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. She noted she could not see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if they let me."