“It’s Become Impossible” Judi Dench Reveals She’s Unable to Read Scripts Anymore Due to a Disease

The Academy Award-winning actress, Judi Dench, spoke openly about her disease, boldly detailing the challenges that come with it. And despite the significant impact the disease may have on a person’s quality of life, Dench’s attitude demonstrates that it’s possible to adapt and find ways to pursue one’s passions in spite of the obstacles. Her resilience and determination to continue working are an inspiration to us all.

The 88-year-old actress was diagnosed with AMD in 2012, a condition that affects the central vision. Despite undergoing treatment to slow its progression, she shared during an appearance on a TV show that she is currently searching for a device that can read scripts to her and also indicate where the lines are on the page to help her utilize her photographic memory. She also has to get very close to people before being able to recognize who they are.

Dame Judi expressed her annoyance at having to rely on external assistance to memorize her lines due to her advanced macular degeneration. She shared that she used to find learning lines and remembering them easy, and that she could currently perform the entire play Twelfth Night from memory.

During an interview, The actress discussed her condition, expressing that she doesn’t want to retire but is currently not doing much due to her impaired vision, saying, “It’s bad.”

Macular degeneration is a common condition that typically affects individuals in their 50s and 60s. Although it does not lead to complete blindness, it can make everyday tasks like reading and recognizing faces difficult. The precise cause is still unknown, but it has been linked to factors like high blood pressure, obesity, and having a family history of the disease. The actress has already revealed that her mother suffered from a similar sight loss.

If you want to learn more about Dame Judi Dench, take a look at these articles before you leave:

Judi Dench Celebrates Her 88th Birthday, and Here Are 5 Facts We Didn’t Know About Her

After a 30-Year-Long Marriage, Judi Dench Managed to Find Love Again at Age 76

“I Wish We’d Had Lots More Children,” Judi Dench Reflects on Her Life’s Biggest Regret