🔗 Share this article The Esteemed Actress Reveals Memory Struggles Yet Retains Shakespeare Verses. The legendary actress Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of growing older on her vision and memory, stating she frequently finds it hard to recall immediate plans – yet can effortlessly recite extensive passages of Shakespearean text. "I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to the Radio Times. Her team verified that this kind of help are at times required. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "in a fog" even up close. A 'Crusher' of a Condition "It's devastating," Dench noted, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can at least hear the questions." The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary exploring her deep connection with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the festive period. Regarding Friends and Acquittals The star also discussed staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text." In recent months, Dench disclosed she now requires full-time assistance in public to avoid falling over due to her vision problems. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative disease 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 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 haven't yet found a way. Since I have many companions who will teach me 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. That year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast. Remaining in the Public Eye Dench still appears frequently in public, however, such as at charity events like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. She noted she could not see the final artwork, but would touch it "if permitted."