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The legendary performer Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of aging on her eyesight and recall, revealing she frequently finds it hard to recall immediate plans – yet can effortlessly recite extensive passages of the Bard's work.

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

Her assistants confirmed that such reminders are sometimes required. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

"It's devastating," 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 leading a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the Christmas holidays.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

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

In recent months, Dench disclosed she now requires full-time assistance in public for fear of falling over due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK.

Coping with New Realities

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, and continued: "And I can't see to read. But you just cope."

"It's difficult 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 screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

She continues to appear often at events, however, such as at fundraisers like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live for charity. She noted she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if permitted."