Flipper is an IR (infrared) remote control. It requires direct line of sight to operate the TV and STB / cable box.
Xfinity has several types of installations in assisted living type facilities.
While it may appear that there is no box, there is a box - if it is not next to the TV, then it can be hidden behind the or elsewhere.
First, find your Xfinity box. Trace the wire form your V, and your will eventually find the box.
First, make sure it is set to receive IR signals (see our other article "Activate IR" Here
If your box is hidden, then you will need an IR extender - see our other article "IR / RF Extenders" HERE