🔗 Share this article Judi Dench Shares Recollection Struggles But Holds Onto Shakespeare Verses. The legendary actress Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of growing older on her vision and recall, revealing she often struggles to remember immediate plans – but can easily recall long sections of Shakespearean text. "I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told a magazine. Her team confirmed that this kind of help are at times required. She further mentioned 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," Dench noted, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "but I can at least hear the questions." Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme set for broadcast over the Christmas holidays. On Friends and Exoneration Dench also mentioned staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, we text." In recent months, Dench disclosed she now requires full-time assistance in public for fear of falling over due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the primary reason of sight loss in the UK. Adapting to Change Dench has attributed the condition with her effective stepping back from film work. "I can't see on a film set any more," 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. Since I have many companions who will help me learn the script." Dench's most recent film appearance was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast. Remaining in the Public Eye She continues to appear frequently in public, however, such as at fundraisers including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live for charity. She noted she could not see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if permitted."