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The iconic performer Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of aging on her eyesight and memory, stating she often struggles to recall immediate plans – but can easily recall extensive passages of Shakespearean text.

"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told the Radio Times.

Her team confirmed that this kind of help are at times required. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

"It's devastating," Dench noted, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can still hear the questions."

The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is fronting a new documentary exploring her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the festive period.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."

Earlier this year, Dench said she needs full-time assistance in public for fear of falling over due to her vision problems. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.

Coping with New Realities

Dench has attributed the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "I can't see on a film set any more," she explained, and continued: "Reading is also impossible. But you just deal with it."

"It's difficult if I have any length of a part. 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 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year 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, including at charity events including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. She noted she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if they let me."