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The iconic actress Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of aging on her eyesight and recall, stating she often struggles to recall immediate plans – but can effortlessly recite extensive passages of the Bard's work.

"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to a magazine.

Her assistants verified that this kind of help are at times required. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.

A 'Crusher' of a Condition

"It's devastating," she remarked, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can still hear the questions."

Dench, who turns 91 this week, 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 Christmas holidays.

On Friends and Exoneration

Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."

In recent months, Dench said she now requires constant help in public for fear of falling over due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive issue that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.

Adapting to Change

She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "I can't see on a film set any more," she explained, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it."

"It's difficult if I have a substantial role. I haven't yet found a way. Because I have many companions who will teach me the script."

Dench's most recent screen credit was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

Dench still appears often at events, nevertheless, including at charity events including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live to raise funds. She noted she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would touch it "if they let me."