In a recent episode of Louis Theroux Interviews, Dame Judi Dench openly discussed her decade-long struggle with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a progressive eye condition that has led to significant vision loss. The 87-year-old actress, celebrated for her distinguished performances, spoke candidly about how AMD has impacted her life and career.
Impact on Personal and Professional Life
When asked by Louis Theroux about the severity of her condition, Dame Judi described it with raw honesty: “Bad. That’s bad enough. It’s bad enough that you’re hazy. You’re just a little hazy.” Despite these challenges, she conveyed her resolute decision not to retire, expressing, “I don’t want to retire. I’m not doing much right now because I can’t see.”
Adapting to New Realities
Learning lines has become particularly challenging for Dame Judi. She shared her experience, saying, “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 ability to adapt and persevere in the face of such adversity is truly remarkable.
Personal Impact and Adjustments
Dame Judi also revealed in an interview with the Radio Times in 2021 that her vision loss has affected various aspects of her daily life. She can no longer read newspapers, solve crosswords, or enjoy books. Additionally, she had to make the painful decision to stop driving in 2017, describing the experience as “traumatic” and “appalling.” She emphasized the importance of road safety and the emotional toll of losing this independence.
Concerns About Her Family
The actress expressed concerns about hereditary factors, noting that her mother also suffers from AMD. This has led her to worry about her daughter, Finty, potentially inheriting the condition. Finty now undergoes regular eye exams to monitor her vision. Dame Judi bravely faces her fear of complete sight loss, stating, “I don’t want to say. I’ve seen enough… You get used to it. As a result, I completely disregard it.”
Managing AMD and Maintaining Eye Health
While accepting the reality of AMD is challenging, there are ways to potentially slow its progression. Leading optometrist Dr. Nish recommends nutritional supplements such as Vitamin C & E, Lutein, Zeaxanthin, Zinc, and Copper. Lifestyle changes, including a healthy diet, regular exercise, avoiding smoking, and protecting the eyes from UV rays, can also help maintain eye health.
An Inspirational Journey
Dame Judi Dench’s journey through AMD exemplifies her indomitable spirit and resilience. Her determination to continue pursuing her passion despite the obstacles she faces is inspiring. Her story encourages us to support and raise awareness for those affected by age-related macular degeneration, highlighting the importance of compassion and perseverance.
