🔗 Share this article Judi Dench Shares Recollection Struggles But Retains The Bard's Verses. The legendary actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of growing older on her vision and recall, stating she frequently finds it hard to remember upcoming appointments – yet can easily recall long sections of Shakespearean text. "I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to a magazine. Her team confirmed that such reminders are sometimes required. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "in a fog" even up close. A 'Crusher' of a Condition "It's devastating," Dench noted, adding 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 on Tuesday, 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 set for broadcast over the Christmas holidays. Regarding Friends and Acquittals The star also discussed remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, we text." Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she needs constant help 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 primary reason of vision loss in the UK. Adapting to Change Dench has attributed the condition with her de facto retirement from film work. "I can no longer see properly on set," she said in 2023, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just deal with it." "It's difficult if I have any length of a part. I have not discovered a way. Since I have so many friends who will teach me the script." Her last screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also brought her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast. Remaining in the Public Eye She continues to appear frequently in public, however, including at fundraisers including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. She noted she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if permitted."