🔗 Share this article The Esteemed Actress Shares Memory Challenges But Holds Onto Shakespeare Lines. The iconic actress Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of growing older on her vision and memory, stating she often struggles to recall immediate plans – but can easily recall extensive passages of the Bard's work. "I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she told the Radio Times. Her team confirmed that such reminders are at times required. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close. A Condition That 'Crushes' "It's devastating," she remarked, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "but I can still hear the questions." The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is leading a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the festive period. Regarding Friends and Acquittals Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text." Earlier this year, Dench said she now requires full-time assistance in public for fear of falling over due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive disease that is the primary reason of sight 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 a substantial role. I haven't yet found a way. Because I have so many friends who will help me learn the script." Her last screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also brought her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast. A Continued Public Presence Dench still appears often at events, nevertheless, such as at fundraisers including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. She noted she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would touch it "if they let me."