🔗 Share this article Judi Dench Shares Memory Challenges But Holds Onto The Bard's Verses. The iconic performer Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of aging on her eyesight and memory, stating she frequently finds it hard to remember immediate plans – 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 stated to the Radio Times. Her team verified that such reminders are sometimes required. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close. A 'Crusher' of a Condition "It's a crusher," she remarked, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can still hear the questions." Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary exploring her deep connection with Shakespeare's works. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the festive period. Regarding Friends and Acquittals Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text." In recent months, Dench disclosed she needs 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 degenerative disease that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK. Adapting to Change She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she said in 2023, and continued: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it." "It's challenging if I have a substantial role. I have not discovered a way. Since I have so many friends who will teach me 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. The same year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast. A Continued Public Presence She continues to appear frequently in public, nevertheless, including at charity events like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live for charity. She noted she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if they let me."