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The legendary actress Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of growing older on her vision and recall, revealing she frequently finds it hard to remember upcoming appointments – but can easily recall long sections of the Bard's work.

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

Her assistants confirmed that such reminders are sometimes required. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

"It's devastating," she remarked, explaining 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 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. She will also be seen in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the festive period.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."

Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she now requires constant help in public to avoid tripping due to her vision problems. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.

Coping with New Realities

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 challenging if I have any length of a part. I have not discovered a way. Since I have so many friends who will teach me the script."

Dench's most recent film appearance was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film 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 frequently in public, nevertheless, such as at fundraisers including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live to raise funds. She noted she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would feel it "if they let me."