🔗 Share this article Judi Dench Reveals Recollection Struggles But Retains The Bard's Verses. The iconic performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of growing older on her eyesight and recall, revealing she frequently finds it hard to remember upcoming appointments – yet can effortlessly recite extensive passages of the Bard's work. "I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to the Radio Times. Her team confirmed that this kind of help are sometimes required. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "blurred" even when up close. A Condition That 'Crushes' "It's devastating," Dench noted, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can still hear the questions." Dench, who turns 91 this week, is fronting a new documentary about her deep connection with Shakespeare's works. She will also be seen in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the Christmas holidays. Regarding Friends and Acquittals Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text." In recent months, Dench said she needs full-time assistance in public for fear of tripping due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the leading cause of sight 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 deal with it." "It's difficult if I have any length of a part. I haven't yet found a way. Because I have so many friends who will teach me the script." Dench's most recent screen credit was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. The same year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast. A Continued Public Presence Dench still appears often at events, however, such as at charity events including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live for charity. She noted she could not see the final artwork, but would feel it "if they let me."