🔗 Share this article The Esteemed Actress Reveals Memory Struggles Yet Retains Shakespeare Verses. The iconic actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of growing older on her eyesight and memory, revealing she frequently finds it hard to recall immediate plans – but can effortlessly recite long sections of Shakespearean text. "I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to a magazine. Her team verified that such reminders are sometimes required. She further mentioned 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," Dench noted, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "but I can still hear the questions." Dench, who turns 91 this week, is leading a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the festive period. Regarding Friends and Acquittals Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text." Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she now requires constant help in public to avoid tripping due to her vision problems. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive disease that is the primary reason of vision loss in the UK. Adapting to Change She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from film work. "I can no longer see properly on set," she said in 2023, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope." "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 help me learn the script." Dench's most recent screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast. A Continued Public Presence Dench still appears often at events, however, including at fundraisers including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, 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."