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The legendary actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of growing older on her vision and recall, revealing she frequently finds it hard to remember 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 told the Radio Times.

Her assistants verified that this kind of help are at times required. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "blurred" even up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

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

The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary exploring her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme set for broadcast over the festive period.

On Friends and Exoneration

The star also discussed remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," 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 first revealed 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 de facto retirement from acting. "I can't see on a film set any more," 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 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. The same year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.

A Continued Public Presence

She continues to appear frequently in public, however, including at fundraisers like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live to raise funds. She noted she could not see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if permitted."