🔗 Share this article The Esteemed Actress Reveals Memory Challenges Yet Holds Onto Shakespeare Lines. The iconic actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of growing older on her eyesight and memory, revealing she often struggles to recall upcoming appointments – but can effortlessly recite long sections of Shakespearean text. "I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she told the Radio Times. Her assistants verified that such reminders are sometimes required. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "blurred" even up close. A 'Crusher' of a Condition "It's a crusher," Dench noted, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can still hear the questions." Dench, who turns 91 this week, is fronting a new documentary about her deep connection with Shakespeare's works. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the Christmas holidays. On Friends and Exoneration The star also discussed remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text." Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she needs full-time assistance in public to avoid tripping due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK. Coping with New Realities Dench has attributed the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she said in 2023, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just cope." "It's challenging if I have a substantial role. I haven't yet found a way. Since I have so many friends who will help me learn the script." Her last screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast. A Continued Public Presence She continues to appear often at events, however, including at charity events like one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. She noted she could not see the final artwork, but would touch it "if they let me."