🔗 Share this article Judi Dench Reveals Memory Struggles Yet Retains The Bard's Lines. The iconic performer Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of aging on her vision and memory, stating she often struggles to recall upcoming appointments – yet can effortlessly recite extensive passages of the Bard's work. "I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to the Radio Times. Her assistants verified that this kind of help are at times required. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even up close. A Condition That 'Crushes' "It's devastating," Dench noted, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "but I can still hear the questions." The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary about her deep connection with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the festive period. 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 we are in contact, we text." Earlier this year, Dench said she needs constant help in public to avoid tripping due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a progressive disease 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 explained, adding: "And I can't see to read. 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 so many friends who will teach me the script." Her last film appearance was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast. A Continued Public Presence Dench still appears often at events, nevertheless, such as at charity events like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. She noted she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would feel it "if permitted."