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The iconic performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of aging on her eyesight and recall, revealing she often struggles to remember upcoming appointments – but can easily recall extensive passages of Shakespearean text.

"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she told the Radio Times.

Her team confirmed that such reminders are at times necessary. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even up close.

A 'Crusher' of a Condition

"It's a crusher," she remarked, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "however I can at least hear the questions."

Dench, who turns 91 this week, is leading a new documentary exploring her deep connection 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

The star also discussed staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."

In recent months, Dench disclosed she needs full-time assistance in public to avoid falling over due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive 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, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it."

"It's difficult if I have a substantial role. I have not discovered a way. Because I have many companions who will help me learn the script."

Her last film appearance was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.

A Continued Public Presence

Dench still appears frequently in public, nevertheless, such as at charity events 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 feel it "if they let me."