In a recent episode of Louis Theroux Interviews, Dame Judi Dench bravely shared her ten-year battle with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a degenerative eye condition that has caused her vision loss. The 87-year-old actress, known for her remarkable performances, shed light on the impact this condition has had on her personal and professional life.
When Louis asked Dame Judi about the severity of her condition, she replied with heartfelt honesty, “Bad. That’s bad enough. It’s bad enough that you’re hazy. You’re just a little hazy.” Despite facing such challenges, she expressed her determination not to retire, stating, “I don’t want to retire. I’m not doing much right now because I can’t see.”
Learning lines without being able to see has been a daunting task for Dame Judi. She explained, “I’ve got to teach myself a new way of learning. I realized I needed to know where it was on the page. I’ll figure it out for myself. I’m sure I will, as long as I don’t trip over it.” Her resilience and adaptability are truly inspiring.
On a personal level, Dame Judi disclosed to the Radio Times in 2021 that her vision loss has affected various aspects of her life. She mentioned the inability to read the newspaper, solve crosswords, or enjoy books. Furthermore, she had to make the difficult decision to stop driving in 2017. Describing this experience as “traumatic” and “appalling,” she emphasized the importance of ensuring safety on the roads.
The actress also shared her concerns about hereditary factors. Her mother also has the same condition, making her worry that her daughter, Finty, may inherit it. To address this, Finty undergoes regular eye exams to monitor her vision. Judi’s fear of losing her sight completely is overwhelming, yet she bravely faces it head-on, stating, “I don’t want to say. I’ve seen enough… You get used to it. As a result, I completely disregard it.”
While it is indeed a difficult reality to accept, there are ways to slow down the progression of AMD. According to leading optometrist Dr. Nish, taking nutritional supplements such as Vitamin C & E, Lutein, Zeaxanthin, Zinc & Copper may be beneficial. Additionally, making lifestyle changes including maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, avoiding smoking, and protecting the eyes from UV rays can also contribute to maintaining eye health.
Dame Judi Dench’s journey is a testament to her unwavering spirit and resilience. Her determination to continue pursuing her passion, despite the challenges she faces, serves as an inspiration to us all. Let us all join together in supporting and raising awareness for those affected by age-related macular degeneration.
