🔗 Share this article The Esteemed Actress Reveals Memory Challenges But Holds Onto Shakespeare Lines. The legendary actress Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of aging on her vision and recall, stating she often struggles to remember upcoming appointments – but can easily recall extensive passages of the Bard's work. "I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told the Radio Times. Her assistants confirmed that such reminders are sometimes required. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even when up close. A 'Crusher' of a Condition "It's a crusher," Dench noted, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "but I can still hear the questions." The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary exploring her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme set for broadcast over the Christmas holidays. On Friends and Exoneration Dench also mentioned staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text." In recent months, Dench said she needs full-time assistance in public to avoid falling over due to her vision problems. 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 de facto retirement from film work. "I can't see on a film set any more," she explained, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just cope." "It's challenging 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; earlier that year she had a larger role in Allelujah. That year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast. A Continued Public Presence Dench still appears frequently in public, nevertheless, such as at fundraisers like one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live to raise funds. She noted she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if permitted."