The world of entertainment has been graced with the remarkable talent of 90-year-old Dame Judi Dench for decades, but the beloved actress has recently shared a personal struggle that has left her fans both concerned and inspired. In a candid revelation, the esteemed Dame Judi Dench has admitted that her deteriorating eyesight has reached a point where she can no longer venture out alone, a reality that has undoubtedly impacted her independence.
During an intimate conversation on Trinny Woodall’s Fearless podcast, the Academy Award-winning actress opened up about the challenges she faces due to age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This condition, which affects millions worldwide, including a significant number of Australians, has made public appearances and everyday activities increasingly difficult for Dench.
‘Someone always has to be with me now,’ Dench disclosed, highlighting the severity of her vision loss. ‘I can’t see, and I’m at risk of walking into something or taking a fall.’ The necessity of constant companionship is a stark contrast to the autonomy we all cherish, and it’s a poignant reminder of the vulnerability that comes with ageing.
Despite the hardships, Dame Judi Dench has maintained her characteristic wit and resilience. She humorously noted that her condition has a silver lining, as it excuses her from the anxiety-inducing aspects of public events. ‘I’m always nervous before going somewhere,’ she confessed. ‘But now, I don’t have to worry about it because I can pretend to have no eyesight.’
First sharing her diagnosis with the public in 2012, Dench has been open about the impact of AMD on her life and career. In 2019, she described the loss of her eyesight as one of the most traumatic experiences she’s ever faced. The condition has not only affected her mobility but also her ability to perform her craft, as she struggles to learn lines without the aid of her once-photographic memory.
The Macula Disease Foundation Australia reports that AMD is a leading cause of severe vision loss and blindness in the country, affecting central vision and the ability to perform daily tasks such as reading, watching television, and recognising faces. While AMD does not result in complete vision loss, it significantly impairs quality of life.
Despite these challenges, Dame Judi Dench’s spirit remains unbroken. She continues to adapt and find ways to work around her limitations, relying on friends to help her memorise scripts and refusing to let AMD dictate the terms of her career. Her last appearance was in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited, and she has continued to receive accolades for her work, including her eighth Oscar nomination in 2021 for Belfast.
Judi Dench’s experience is a powerful reminder of the changes that come with age. How do you stay positive and adapt when faced with similar challenges? We’d love to hear your stories—leave a comment below and share your insights.