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The iconic performer Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of growing older on her vision and recall, stating she often struggles 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 promise you," she stated to a magazine.

Her team verified that such reminders are at times required. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "blurred" even up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

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

Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, 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 festive period.

On Friends and Exoneration

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

In recent months, Dench disclosed she now requires constant help in public to avoid tripping due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive issue that is the primary reason of vision loss in the UK.

Adapting to Change

Dench has attributed the condition with her de facto retirement from film work. "I can no longer see properly on set," she said in 2023, and continued: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."

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

Dench's most recent screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that 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, however, such as at charity events like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live to raise funds. She noted she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if they let me."