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The legendary performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of aging on her vision and recall, revealing she frequently finds it hard to recall upcoming appointments – but can easily recall extensive passages of the Bard's work.

"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to a magazine.

Her team verified that this kind of help are at times required. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

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

Dench, who turns 91 this week, is leading a new documentary about her deep connection with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the festive period.

On Friends and Exoneration

The star also discussed remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text."

In recent months, Dench disclosed she needs constant help in public to avoid tripping due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative 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: "And I can't see to read. But you just cope."

"It's difficult if I have any length of a part. I haven't yet found a way. Since I have many companions who will help me learn the script."

Dench's most recent film appearance was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.

A Continued Public Presence

Dench still appears often at events, however, including at charity events including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. She noted she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would touch it "if permitted."