🔗 Share this article The Esteemed Actress Shares Memory Struggles Yet Retains The Bard's Lines. The legendary performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of aging on her vision and recall, stating she often struggles to remember immediate plans – yet can easily recall extensive passages of the Bard's work. "I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to a magazine. 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 'Crusher' of a Condition "It's a crusher," Dench noted, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "but I can still hear the questions." The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the festive period. 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." Earlier this year, Dench said she now requires full-time assistance in public for fear of tripping due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive issue that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK. Adapting to Change Dench has attributed the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she explained, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just cope." "It's challenging if I have any length of a part. I have not discovered a way. Since I have many companions who will teach me the script." Dench's most recent 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 Academy Award nod for Belfast. A Continued Public Presence She continues to appear often at events, nevertheless, such as at charity events including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live to raise funds. She noted she could not see the final artwork, but would touch it "if they let me."