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The legendary performer Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of aging on her vision and memory, revealing she often struggles to remember immediate plans – but can effortlessly recite extensive passages of Shakespearean text.

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

Her team confirmed that such reminders are sometimes required. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

"It's devastating," she remarked, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "but I can still hear the questions."

Dench, who turns 91 this week, is leading a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the Christmas holidays.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

Dench also mentioned staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, 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 degenerative issue that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.

Adapting to Change

Dench has attributed the condition with her effective stepping back from film work. "I can no longer see properly on set," 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. Since I have so many friends who will help me learn the script."

Her last 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 earned her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

She continues to appear often at events, nevertheless, such as at fundraisers like one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. Dench said she could not see the final artwork, but would feel it "if they let me."