🔗 Share this article Judi Dench Shares Memory Challenges Yet Holds Onto The Bard's Verses. The iconic performer Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of growing older on her eyesight and memory, stating she often struggles to recall upcoming appointments – but can easily recall long sections of Shakespearean text. "I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she told a magazine. Her team confirmed that such reminders are sometimes necessary. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even up close. A 'Crusher' of a Condition "It's a crusher," she remarked, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can still hear the questions." The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the festive period. Regarding Friends and Acquittals The star also discussed remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text." Earlier this year, Dench said she now requires constant help in public for fear of tripping due to her vision problems. 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 She has credited the condition with her de facto retirement from acting. "I can't see on a film set any more," 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 any length of a part. I haven't yet found a way. Since I have many companions who will teach me the script." Dench's most recent film appearance was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film 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, however, such as at charity events like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live to raise funds. She noted she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if they let me."