🔗 Share this article Judi Dench Reveals Recollection Challenges Yet Retains Shakespeare Lines. The legendary performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of growing older on her eyesight and recall, stating she frequently finds it hard to remember immediate plans – yet can effortlessly recite extensive passages of Shakespearean text. "I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she told a magazine. Her assistants verified that this kind of help are sometimes necessary. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even when 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 presenting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can at least hear the questions." Dench, who turns 91 this week, is leading 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 festive period. On Friends and Exoneration Dench also mentioned staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, we text." In recent months, Dench said she needs constant help in public to avoid 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 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: "Reading is also impossible. 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." Her last screen credit was a small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. The same year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast. Remaining in the Public Eye Dench still appears frequently in public, however, including at fundraisers like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. Dench said she could not see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if they let me."