🔗 Share this article Judi Dench Shares Recollection Challenges But Holds Onto The Bard's Verses. The iconic performer Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of growing older on her vision and memory, stating she often struggles to remember upcoming appointments – yet can effortlessly recite extensive passages of the Bard's work. "I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to the Radio Times. Her team confirmed that such reminders are at times necessary. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "in a fog" even up close. A 'Crusher' of a Condition "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 about her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme 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 I hear from Kevin, we text." Earlier this year, Dench said she now requires full-time assistance in public to avoid falling over due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive issue that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK. Coping with New Realities 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 any length of a part. I haven't yet found a way. Since I have many companions who will teach me the script." Her last screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. The same year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast. A Continued Public Presence She continues to appear often at events, however, including at fundraisers including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live for charity. Dench said she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would feel it "if they let me."