🔗 Share this article The Esteemed Actress Shares Memory Struggles But Retains The Bard's Lines. The iconic performer Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of growing older on her vision and recall, revealing she often struggles to recall upcoming appointments – yet can effortlessly recite extensive passages of Shakespearean text. "I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told a magazine. Her team verified that such reminders are sometimes required. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even when up close. A Condition That 'Crushes' "It's a crusher," Dench noted, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can at least hear the questions." The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the Christmas holidays. Regarding Friends and Acquittals Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with fellow 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 constant help in public for fear of falling over due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration 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't see on a film set any more," she explained, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope." "It's challenging if I have any length of a part. I haven't yet found a way. Because 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. That year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast. Remaining in the Public Eye Dench still appears frequently in public, however, such as at charity events like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. Dench said she could not see the final artwork, but would feel it "if permitted."