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The iconic actress Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of growing older on her vision and memory, revealing she frequently finds it hard to remember immediate plans – but can easily recall extensive passages of Shakespearean text.

"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told a magazine.

Her assistants verified that such reminders are at times necessary. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

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

Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary about her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the Christmas holidays.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

The star also discussed remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text."

In recent months, Dench said she now requires full-time assistance in public for fear of falling over due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the primary reason of sight loss in the UK.

Adapting to Change

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

"It's challenging if I have any length of a part. I haven't yet found a way. Since I have so many friends who will teach me the script."

Dench's most recent film appearance was a small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also brought her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.

A Continued Public Presence

Dench still appears frequently in public, however, including at fundraisers including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live for charity. Dench said she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if permitted."