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The iconic actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of aging on her eyesight and memory, stating she frequently finds it hard to remember immediate plans – yet can easily recall extensive passages of the Bard's work.

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

Her assistants confirmed that such reminders are sometimes required. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

"It's a crusher," Dench noted, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "however I can still hear the questions."

The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is fronting a new documentary about her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the Christmas holidays.

On Friends and Exoneration

The star also discussed staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text."

Earlier this year, Dench said she needs constant help in public to avoid falling over due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK.

Adapting to Change

Dench has attributed the condition with her de facto retirement from acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she explained, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just cope."

"It's challenging if I have any length of a part. I have not discovered 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 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

She continues to appear often at events, however, including at fundraisers like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live for charity. Dench said she could not see the final artwork, but would touch it "if permitted."