🔗 Share this article Judi Dench Reveals Recollection Challenges But Holds Onto Shakespeare Verses. The legendary actress Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of growing older on her eyesight and memory, revealing she often struggles to recall immediate plans – yet can effortlessly recite long sections of the Bard's work. "I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she told the Radio Times. Her assistants verified that this kind of help are at times required. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close. A Condition That 'Crushes' "It's a crusher," Dench noted, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "however I can at least hear the questions." The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary about her longstanding relationship 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 Dench also mentioned staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text." In recent months, Dench disclosed she needs full-time assistance in public to avoid tripping due to her vision problems. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK. Adapting to Change Dench has attributed the condition with her effective stepping back from film work. "I can no longer see properly on set," she said in 2023, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it." "It's difficult if I have a substantial role. I haven't yet found a way. Since I have so many friends who will help me learn the script." Dench's most recent screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year she had a larger role in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast. A Continued Public Presence She continues to appear frequently in public, nevertheless, such as at charity events including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. She noted she could not see the final artwork, but would feel it "if they let me."