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The legendary performer Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of aging on her vision and recall, revealing she often struggles to recall upcoming appointments – but can effortlessly recite long sections of the Bard's work.

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

Her assistants verified that this kind of help are at times necessary. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration now means 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, "but I can still hear the questions."

The actress, celebrating 91 this week, 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 Christmas holidays.

On Friends and Exoneration

The star also discussed remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."

Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she now requires full-time assistance in public to avoid tripping due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative issue 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 no longer see properly on set," she explained, and continued: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it."

"It's difficult if I have a substantial role. I haven't yet found a way. Because I have many companions who will teach me the script."

Her last screen credit 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 Oscar nomination for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

She continues to appear often at events, however, including at fundraisers like one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live for charity. Dench said she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would touch it "if permitted."