🔗 Share this article Judi Dench Reveals Memory Struggles But Holds Onto The Bard's Lines. The legendary performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of growing older on her vision and recall, stating she often struggles to recall immediate plans – yet can easily recall extensive passages of Shakespearean text. "I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she told 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, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can still hear the questions." The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is leading 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 fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text." In recent months, Dench disclosed 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 sight loss in the UK. Adapting to Change She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from film work. "I can no longer see properly on set," she explained, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope." "It's difficult if I have a substantial role. I have not discovered a way. Because I have many companions who will help me learn the script." Her last film appearance was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also brought her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast. A Continued Public Presence Dench still appears frequently in public, nevertheless, including at fundraisers like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live for charity. She noted she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would touch it "if permitted."