🔗 Share this article Judi Dench Reveals Recollection Struggles Yet Holds Onto Shakespeare Verses. The iconic performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of aging on her eyesight and memory, revealing she frequently finds it hard to remember immediate plans – but can easily recall extensive passages of Shakespearean text. "I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to a magazine. Her assistants confirmed that this kind of help are sometimes required. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "in a fog" even up close. A 'Crusher' of a Condition "It's devastating," she remarked, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "but 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. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme set for broadcast over the festive period. On Friends and Exoneration Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text." In recent months, Dench disclosed she needs constant help in public to avoid tripping due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive issue that is the primary reason of vision loss in the UK. Coping with New Realities She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from film work. "I can no longer see properly on set," she explained, and continued: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope." "It's challenging if I have any length of a part. I haven't yet found a way. Since I have so many friends who will help me learn the script." Her last screen credit was a small role 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 Dench still appears often at events, however, including at charity events like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. Dench said she could not see the final artwork, but would touch it "if they let me."