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The iconic performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of aging on her vision and memory, stating she frequently finds it hard to remember upcoming appointments – but can effortlessly recite long sections of the Bard's work.

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

Her assistants verified that this kind of help are at times required. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes 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 long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "however I can still hear the questions."

The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary about her deep connection with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the Christmas holidays.

On Friends and Exoneration

Dench also mentioned staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text."

Earlier this year, Dench said she now requires full-time assistance in public for fear of tripping due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive disease that is the primary reason of vision loss in the UK.

Coping with New Realities

She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from film work. "I can't see on a film set any more," she said in 2023, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just cope."

"It's challenging if I have any length of a part. I have not discovered a way. Because 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; earlier that year she had a larger role in Allelujah. That year also brought her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.

A Continued Public Presence

She continues to appear frequently in public, nevertheless, including at fundraisers including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. She noted she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would touch it "if permitted."